K-8 Environmental Learning & Outdoor Educator

University of Pittsburgh•Pittsburgh, PA

15h•$50,000•Onsite

About The Position

Falk Laboratory School, a co-educational K-8 laboratory school in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh, seeks a full-time, experienced K-8 Environmental Learning & Outdoor Education Teacher, beginning August 15th, 2026. We are seeking an educator who sees the natural world not as a subject to be taught, but as a living system to be studied, cared for, and improved through the work of children - through inquiry, action, and project-based learning. Position Overview We seek a dynamic, innovative educator to design and lead a K-8 environmental learning program that transforms our natural area, Falk Woods, and the greater Pittsburgh region into a living laboratory for inquiry, stewardship, and real-world problem solving. Building on a beloved 20-year legacy, this role will reimagine and modernize a future-facing model of environmental educational learning through: Place-based and outdoor learning High-quality Project-Based Learning (PBL) Ecological action research, such as Citizen Science Authentic partnerships with local organizations and universities Commitment to progressive and constructivist education Positioning the school as a regional and national leader in environmental PBL Students will not simply learn about the environment - they will investigate, contribute, and take action. Vision for the Program The Environmental Learning & Outdoor Education program is envisioned as: A core pillar of our progressive laboratory school model A pathway to building reverence for our natural world A space for developing mindfulness and reflective practices A K-8 vertically aligned experience grounded in developmental practice A bridge between campus ecology, the greater Pittsburgh area, and beyond A hub for student voice, agency, and real-world impact Through partnerships and real-world inquiry, students will engage in: Ecological action research Authentic problem-solving Community-based environmental stewardship Mindful observation, sketching, and journaling Quiet wonder

Requirements

Background in environmental science, ecology, outdoor education, or related field
Experience with Project-Based Learning (PBL) design and facilitation
Experience working with K–8 learners
Curriculum design with vertical alignment (K-8)
Facilitation of inquiry and project-based learning
Partnership development with community organizations
Strong communication and collaboration skill

Nice To Haves

A Master's degree, or demonstrated progress toward a master's degree in teacher education or a related field, is preferred.
Broad experience is advantageous, as collaboration across disciplines and grade levels is a valued practice at Falk.
Highly creative work experience in elementary education is considered an asset.