Outdoor Educator

Roots 2 Rise Outdoors is a growing organization seeking passionate people to join our team We facilitate year round outdoor exploratory programs for children ages 2 to 10 in Owen Sound and surrounding areas.

If you are passionate about connecting with the natural world and providing necessary spaces for kids to play, explore and connect, this role is for you

**About the Role**

Our outdoor educators are responsible for providing and facilitating programming that is aligned with the philosophies and values at Roots 2 Rise Outdoors. Working outdoors in all seasons and all weather with the ability to adapt programming accordingly is a key element to these roles. This position requires previous experience working with children in the outdoors, naturalist knowledge, creativity, flexibility and a positive attitude. Our educators are an integral piece to the Roots 2 Rise Outdoors team: role modeling our values of compassion, awareness, curiosity and gratitude throughout all aspects of the job.
- Seasonal Contracts - Fall and Winter 2024/2025
- Hours will vary based on registration and schedule
- Fall Location: Owen Sound and Kemble
- Compensation:$20-22/hr (Lead) $18-$20/hr (Assistant) *Depending on experience and qualifications
- Opportunity to continue throughout the year (weekends / after school)

**Responsibilities**
- Facilitates engaging outdoor, child-led, play-based, developmentally appropriate programming.
- Values and incorporates diverse and inclusive programming.
- Responsible for the emotional health, physical safety, and welfare of all children, including helping children stay warm and dry in wet weather.
- Managing risks in outdoor settings.
- Follow all health and safety protocols as outlined in the staff handbook.
- Co-facilitation and collaboration as a team, providing a safe and positive space for feedback and debriefs.
- Uses a strengths-based approach to managing behaviour.
- Conducts ongoing developmental assessment and risk assessment of individuals and groups.
- Follows Leave No Trace principles.
- Provides program planning, updates and follow-ups.
- Setup and take down of necessary program equipment (tarps, materials, etc.)
- Ambassador for the program within public spaces.
- Mentoring assistant instructors, co-op students and volunteers.
- Attend necessary staff training and meetings.
- Other duties as assigned

**Required Qualifications and Experience**
- Minimum of 1 year experience in education. (Lead Educator requires a minimum of 2 years)
- Diploma or degree in Education, ECE, Environmental Education or related field.
- Experience facilitating children's programs outdoors in all seasons.
- Understanding of risk assessments (site assessments, individual/group assessments and dynamic assessments).
- Familiar with a play-based/inquiry-based approach in education.
- Knowledge of natural history/science, plant/animal identification, knowledge of agricultural practices, primitive skills, music, art, mindfulness.
- Ability to adapt experiences to meet each individual's unique needs/interests.
- Ability to lift 50 lbs, hike comfortably, as well as twist, bend, kneel to interact with young children.
- Must be First Aid/CPR certified, can complete training after hire.
- Access to a car is required.
- Vulnerable sector screening is required.

**If you are passionate about the outdoors, child development and making a positive impact in the world, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your resume along with a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are interested in this position.**

**Job Types**: Casual, Seasonal
Contract length: 4 months

Pay: $18.00-$22.00 per hour

Expected hours: 8 - 10 per week

**Education**:

- DCS / DEC (preferred)

**Experience**:

- teaching: 1 year (preferred)

Work Location: In person

Expected start date: 2024-09-23