Outdoor Classroom Instructor
About The Position
South County Academy is seeking an enthusiastic, dependable Outdoor Classroom Instructor to lead hands-on, nature-based learning experiences for students in outdoor settings. This role combines instruction, supervision, and safety leadership to create engaging programs that build environmental awareness, teamwork, confidence, and curiosity. The ideal candidate enjoys working with children, thrives outdoors in varying weather conditions, and can foster a positive, inclusive learning environment. The Outdoor Classroom Instructor will also play a vital role in securing grant funding for the construction of South County Academy’s Greenhouse, School Garden and Nature Trails.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in education, environmental science, outdoor recreation, biology, or a related field preferred.
- Experience working with children or youth in educational, camp, recreation, or outdoor program settings preferred.
- Knowledge of outdoor education principles, environmental topics, and experiential learning methods.
- Ability to lead groups confidently and maintain a safe, structured learning environment.
- Current CPR and First Aid certification preferred or willingness to obtain upon hire.
- Strong communication, organization, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team and independently when leading activities.
- Reliable transportation and ability to pass required background checks, if applicable.
- Passion for outdoor learning and environmental education.
- Comfort working in changing weather conditions and natural terrain.
- Ability to engage students through active, hands-on instruction.
- Strong judgment, flexibility, and problem-solving skills.
- Commitment to inclusion, student well-being, and positive relationship-building.
- Current driver’s license, reliable transportation, registration and auto insurance
- Ability to communicate effectively
- Travel to and from community locations and office site, which could include using walkways, stairs and/or elevators
- This position is primarily based outdoors and may require standing, walking, hiking, bending, lifting equipment, and working in varying weather conditions.
- The instructor must be able to supervise groups in active environments and maintain awareness of safety at all times.
Nice To Haves
- Experience with hiking, nature study, ropes courses, gardening, or related outdoor activities is a plus.
Responsibilities
- Plan and lead outdoor lessons, activities, and field experiences for student groups.
- Teach age-appropriate topics such as ecology, agriculture, environmental stewardship, outdoor skills, and team building.
- Supervise students during classes, hikes, games, and other outdoor activities.
- Ensure participant safety by following program protocols, conducting risk checks, and responding appropriately to emergencies.
- Set up, maintain, and safely use instructional materials and outdoor equipment.
- Adapt lesson delivery to meet the needs, ages, and abilities of diverse learners.
- Encourage student engagement, curiosity, cooperation, and respect for the natural environment.
- Communicate clearly with staff, teachers, and caregivers regarding schedules, student needs, and program expectations.
- Support behavior management using positive, respectful, and developmentally appropriate strategies.
- Assist with program preparation, cleanup, recordkeeping, and general site stewardship.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Entry Level
