Environmental Educator

Utah State University • Park City, UT

19h • $17 - $20

About The Position

Overview Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter is seeking educators to act as camp leads during Summer Camp 2026. Educators will lead and assist in summer programs that take place both on the Swaner Preserve and in the EcoCenter. Educators will utilize experiential, inquiry, and place-based pedagogy to provide meaningful nature-based camp experiences to youth entering Kindergarten through 8th grades in half-day and full-day week-long camps. This role will report to the Director of Education. During the term of this position, educators will experience many aspects of environmental education and nonprofit work, making this an excellent opportunity for a student or recent graduate who desires the opportunity to explore informal education or refine their interests in the education or non-profit fields. Candidates must have a positive attitude, be open to learning, work well as part of a team, and enjoy working outdoors in a variety of environments and weather conditions. Candidates must be professional in interactions with youth participants, adult guardians, staff, volunteers, and the public as a representative of USU Extension and the Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter. Candidate's professional, academic, and lived experiences will be taken into consideration during the hiring process. Candidates should support and help create a respectful workplace culture where all are welcome. Educators will gain hands-on experience in implementation of informal education programs, including program planning and delivery. Educators will also develop classroom management skills and a deeper understanding of inquiry-based pedagogy, enabling themselves to effectively communicate and teach youth in a variety of settings. Additionally, educators will learn about non-profit organizations and management, the day-to-day operations of a community center, and the many facets of USU Extension work.

Requirements

• Coursework or experience relevant to the fields of youth education, environmental science, conservation, wetland science, ecology, science communication, etc.
• Valid Utah driver’s license to perform essential job responsibilities, such as driving university vehicles and transporting materials to and from camp.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in informal or formal education is a plus.
• Ability to speak Spanish is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Act as lead instructor (or co-lead) during camps, managing 12 to 16 campers each week.
• Oversee 2-5 high school counselors each week and provide meaningful feedback and mentorship.
• Provide campers with high quality environmental and STEM education activities, including outdoor exploration, design challenges, art projects, nature walks, etc.
• Help foster a safe and positive environment for campers, counselors, and administrative staff.
• Recognizing the physical, emotional, and social needs of campers and differentiate instruction as needed.
• Assist in the development of camp curriculum and supporting educational materials, including preparing supplies for each program.
• Communicate daily camp happenings, camper behavior, etc. to campers' guardians and to Camp Director.
• Work collaboratively with a team of 3 staff, 4 educators, and up to 35 high school counselors to create a positive and safe camp/work environment for the duration of camp programs.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees