Floater Program Educator
About The Position
The Floater Program Educator supports Harlem Grown’s Youth Programming and DYCD COMPASS after-school and summer programs by substituting in and leading or assisting with engaging, hands-on food and farm education activities for K–5 participants. The educator brings relevant food, gardening, or STEM teaching experience and adapts to changing assignments across program sites, age groups, and activities, sometimes with short notice. Working with Food & Farm Activity Specialists, Group Leaders, Program Leadership, and other staff, the floater helps ensure programs are safe, educational, and enjoyable. Through interactive lessons, creative projects, and real-world connections, the role supports Harlem Grown’s mission to inspire youth through urban farming, wellness, and environmental stewardship. This is an hourly, part-time position available at various community center and school locations in Harlem. The schedule is Monday through Friday, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., with occasional Saturdays.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- At least 2 years of experience teaching, coaching, or facilitating programs with children under age 13.
- Demonstrated expertise in food, gardening, or STEM education.
- Ability to engage and motivate youth across grades K–5.
- Strong classroom management and communication skills.
- Comfort working outdoors and doing hands-on garden work.
- Ability to bend, kneel, and lift up to 50 pounds of gardening and programming supplies.
- Energetic, reliable, and team-oriented, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- Commitment to Harlem Grown’s mission.
- Ability to meet OCFS background check requirements.
Nice To Haves
- Strong connection to Harlem or similar urban communities.
- Associate’s degree in education, youth development, social work, or a related field.
- Familiarity with DYCD COMPASS program standards and OCFS SACC regulations.
- Experience integrating sustainability, urban farming, or nutrition education into instruction.
- Bilingual ability; Spanish fluency is a plus.
Responsibilities
- Plan and lead or co-lead engaging, standards-aligned STEM activities related to food, farming, sustainability, nutrition, wellness, cooking, and environmental education.
- Actively supervise participants during activities, transitions, meals, field trips, and dismissal to support youth safety and engagement.
- Maintain child safety and classroom management.
- Build relationships with youth and families and contribute to a supportive program space.
- Model positive behavior management that promotes guidance, reinforces Harlem Grown’s values, and supports a respectful, nurturing environment.
- Work with the Program Leadership Team to align activities with overall curriculum goals.
- Assist with preparation, setup, and cleanup for daily programming.
- Maintain a safe, structured, and engaging environment by following Harlem Grown protocols, DYCD requirements, and relevant health and safety guidelines.
- Participate in training, professional development, staff meetings, and program events.
- Represent Harlem Grown at community events, school visits, and farm-based learning experiences.
- Support data collection, reflection, and continuous improvement as directed by program leadership.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
