Seasonal Outdoor Educator (May Start)

University of Wisconsin Madison • Wisconsin Dells, WI

54d • $17 - $19 • Onsite

About The Position

The Upham Woods Seasonal Outdoor Educators are the primary programmatic personnel for Upham Woods in the summer season. In that regard, this position is responsible for teaching programming and recreational activities for user groups, interacting with 4-H Youth educators and adult volunteers, other group leaders, and care for programmatic, outpost and recreational equipment, which includes the science center animals. All of the above is to be done with a focus on customer service and effective educational methods in a safe environment. UW-Madison's Division of Extension serves the people and communities of Wisconsin by addressing local, statewide and national issues, improving lives through research-based education, fostering partnerships and action, and facilitating positive impacts. The Extension Natural Resources Institute (https://naturalresources.extension.wisc.edu/) addresses today's critical environmental issues, particularly the sustainable management of food, water, and energy, by using collaborative, multidisciplinary approaches grounded in an understanding of human interactions with resources. We leverage our diverse team of researchers and outreach specialists to provide science-based information and education, embodying the Wisconsin Idea through extensive partnerships. Ultimately, our mission is to empower individuals and communities to make informed decisions that benefit our shared natural resources through a variety of programs. Upham Woods is a residential center within the UW-Madison, Division of Extension that provides hands-on, field-based education and recreation opportunities to youth, youth leaders, and adults through programs focused on environmental and leadership education. The Center, officially accredited through the American Camp Association (ACA), consists of 14 buildings including a new welcome center, full-service kitchen and dining hall, nature center, and lodging for visitors and seasonal staff. The Center sits on the Wisconsin River with over 300 acres of forested land, including a 210- acre state natural area island.

Requirements

• Ability to work in a team setting with enthusiasm and creativity, and the ability to work independently
• The desire to teach user groups ranging in size from 20-150 participants.
• Familiarity with outdoor adventure pursuits and their associated equipment, such as camping, canoeing, archery, etc.
• A general understanding of the field of environmental education, natural resources, education, and youth development
• Ability to work flexible hours any day of the week, including evening hours
• Ability to occasionally lift and carry 35 pounds.
• Ability to hike several miles on uneven terrain including trails and stairs in a wide variety of temperatures and environmental conditions.

Nice To Haves

• Coursework toward a bachelor's degree in education, natural science, biology, environmental education, or a related field
• Ability to take responsibility for one of the specialization areas. Specialization areas include, but are not limited to: program animals, challenge course, technology, marketing and social media, and facility improvement
• Lifeguarding certification or ability to obtain before start of employment, with certification active through August 2026. Required to lead Canoeing, Outpost, Swimming, and Blackhawk Island Hikes
• Professional certifications in any of the activities which we commonly offer, such as licensed teacher, 4-H Archery, Low Ropes element challenge course, canoeing, etc.

Responsibilities

• Teach environmental education and outdoor recreation programming to school and community groups ranging in size from 20-150 participants.
• Collaborate with team members to identify and manage risk in the outdoors.
• Serve as liaison (main point of contact) for visiting groups including on call status
• Facilitate meal service with dining hall staff
• Support conservation projects by preparing necessary tools, safety equipment, and project materials for use on conservation project days.
• Complete facility maintenance projects, trail work, and minor cleaning, as needed.
• Provides assistance for units as requested, such as wiping down tables, filing, coping, sorting, and delivering mail
• Acts in compliance with the standards of their job, represents the university in a positive manner, and completes the assigned tasks that are aligned to their role
• Performs the typical duties as required by each position according to what is needed

Benefits

• Returning Staff for second season - $.50/hr
• Returning Staff for third season - $.50/hr
• Returning Staff for fourth season (last increase) - $.50/hr
• Certification (Lifeguard, must be active before start date and valid through camp end) - $.75/hour
• Other Camp Experience (minimum 2 months experience) - $.25/hour
• Lodging is available while working at Upham Woods in our staff duplex. Bedroom assignments can be an individual or shared, shared bathroom, and shared common areas (kitchen, living room, laundry facilities).

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees