Individual Placement - Outdoor Educator

Student Conservation Association•Nelsonville, NY

3h•Onsite

About The Position

Outdoor Educator The Taconic Outdoor Education Center (TOEC) provides residential and day environmental education experiences and team building programs for public and private schools, college, universities and civic groups. TOEC also offers public programs to the surrounding communities. TOEC serves the public, local school groups, scout troops and other groups as needed. Of the school groups, TOEC serves a large NYC base. There has been a decline in outdoor activity for youth across the board as well. Research shows that playing in nature improves mental and physical health and increasing emotional well-being. Outside play also helps reduce stress in children and children have more active imaginations, stronger immune systems, and have more respect for themselves and others. Hosting an AmeriCorps member will allow TOEC to meet its programming goals and reach as many children as possible. There are a number of responsibilities undertaken by the SCA member that will benefit the community and specifically the students that are engaged in lessons/activities/experiences at the TOEC. The direct contact that the SCA member will have with public and private NY City school students will have a long lasting impact. The hands-on activities that the SCA member provides will emphasize the importance of being good stewards of the natural environment. NY City public and private school students benefit directly from the services provided by the SCA member. Hundreds of 4th-6th grade students will have the opportunity to experience overnight environmental education trips that teach the importance of a healthy environment and how that contributes to clean drinking water and fresh air. Students often have first time experiences out of NY City during these trips

Requirements

BS in Life/Earth Science, Outdoor Education, Environmental Studies, Nature Interpretation or related field
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
comfortable working with the public in various settings
Able to work outdoors in all weather conditions and lead groups on hiking trails through forested areas with varying degrees of terrain
Personal Vehicle

Nice To Haves

Previous formal or informal teaching experience is desirable
Low and high ropes course operation experience a plus

Responsibilities

work with other education staff members to provide educational and recreational programs to schools, civic and public groups
working independently with his/her own group of students in providing environmental education and team building programs
provide high and low ropes programs on our courses
assisting with daily operations of the facility and delivery of program goals
Helping to document project progress (photos, notes, or social media updates)
Participating in outreach or community engagement event