Outdoor School Program Educator

Multnomah ESD•Portland, OR

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Outdoor School Staff support a weeklong (Tuesday–Friday) residential science and community-based program for sixth-grade students in Multnomah County. The role involves co-teaching science lessons, mentoring high school Student Leaders, and fostering an inclusive, supportive learning environment. Staff model effective instruction, guide student behavior using restorative practices, support social-emotional learning, and collaborate with classroom teachers. Additional responsibilities include leading hikes, arts activities, games, and evening programs. Staff play a vital role in creating a safe, positive, and caring environment for all students. Regular and reliable attendance is essential to successfully fulfill this role's duties and responsibilities. The Program Instructor operates within a collaborative and student-centered framework, contributing to a culturally responsive learning environment that supports the diverse needs of all participants. This role requires consistent application of equity-focused practices, strong interpersonal skills, and a commitment to inclusive community building. Instructors are expected to exercise sound judgment, maintain professional boundaries, and uphold MESD policies and program procedures in dynamic, outdoor residential settings. The position involves working closely with peers, supervisors, and partner staff to ensure student well-being and to support the overall integrity and success of the Outdoor School program.

Requirements

Completion of required MESD SafeSchools training and other required trainings provided by MESD within the assigned timeline.
Reliable attendance and punctuality.
Experience in outdoor education or related youth development fields.
Ability to travel between MESD and Outdoor School sites.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse populations.
Strong commitment to youth development and student-centered practices.
Clear, respectful communication and effective collaboration skills.
Flexibility and responsiveness to changing student and program needs.
Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
Commitment to equity, inclusion, and creating respectful, culturally responsive learning environments.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual or multilingual in Spanish, Vietnamese, Chinese, and Russian
Any combination of education and experience that would provide the applicant with the desired skills, knowledge, and ability required to perform the job
Experience teaching or facilitating learning experiences for youth. This may include classroom teaching, summer camp, natural history or environmental education, facilitating outdoor recreation experiences, and other non-formal teaching experiences.
College coursework or experience in the area of science and/or education or a related field.
Preferred experience with social-emotional learning, data collection and/or assessment.
Valid First Aid/CPR (AED) Card, Bloodborne Pathogens, Severe Allergic Reactionand Food Handler’s Card
Previous experience in outdoor education, environmental programs, or working with youth in educational or community-based settings
Demonstrated ability to engage and support diverse communities, including students with special needs and youth from various cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds
Experience implementing trauma-informed practices and/or supporting youth with mental health needs
Familiarity with restorative justice approaches, particularly in educational or youth-centered environments
Strong public speaking, facilitation, and presentation skills
Knowledge of local ecosystems, including native flora and fauna
Proficiency in outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, camping, and kayaking
Certification in wilderness first aid or first responder training
A broad range of life experiences and perspectives contribute to an inclusive, empathetic program delivery.

Responsibilities

Actively supervise and engage with groups of 6th-grade students in both structured and unstructured settings. This often involves kneeling or sitting, or moving to ground level to connect with students at their physical and developmental level.
Assist with meal supervision and food service responsibilities, ensuring a safe, respectful. And an inclusive dining environment.
Supervises and performs food serving functions at meals and at other times as needed.
Collaborate respectfully with site supervisors and partner organizations to maintain a positive and functional living and learning environment.
Communicate appropriately and professionally with students, staff, and partners.
Model professionalism and uphold inclusive, student-centered behavior at all times.
Adhere to MESD policies and Outdoor School Program procedures to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of all participants..
Support the implementation of the full program schedule, including academic instruction, recreational activities, and evening programming.
Supervises and mentors high school Student Leader volunteers by providing clear expectations, support, and feedback to foster leadership development.
Safely lift and move program materials such as science equipment, teaching supplies, and water containers.
Participate in physical activity throughout the day across uneven terrain and outdoor environments.
Respond effectively in medical or behavioral emergencies, including administering First Aid/CPR and responding quickly and effectively, in physically demanding or challenging situations.
Support team operations and student safety by assisting staff as needed.
Assist with site operations, supply management, and carry out additional duties that contribute to the effective functioning of the program.
Performs other duties as assigned