Outdoor Educator
About the role
Kanuga Conferences, Inc. Position: Outdoor Educator This is a full-time, seasonal position classified as non-exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). On-site living is required, with housing and meals provided as part of the role. Availability Candidates must be available to work during one of the following seasons: Spring: February–May Summer: June–August Fall: September–November
Position Overview
Outdoor education is central to Kanuga's mission. Leveraging the rich biodiversity of the Southern Appalachian ecosystem, Kanuga engages thousands annually in environmental experiences that inspire a deeper connection to the natural world. Kanuga’s Outdoor Educators play a vital role in delivering high-quality outdoor education and supporting all outdoor initiatives, including programs offered through the Mountain Trail Outdoor School (MTOS).
Responsibilities
- Demonstrating enthusiasm for environmental education and team building for young people and adults.
- Establishing positive connections with learners of all ages, as well as chaperones and teachers.
- Adapting customizable lesson plans based on their teaching style, learners' age, and Kanuga’s curriculum.
- Fostering an inclusive learning environment.
- Identifying and responding to the states and needs of learners.
- Participating in and contributing to Kanuga’s professional community of educators.
- Celebrating 6–8 three-hour teaching blocks each week for MTOS groups.
- Leading 2–3 evening programs each week for MTOS groups.
- Skillfully delivering Kanuga’s experiential education curriculum.
Desired Qualifications
- Willingness to work outdoors and contribute to a welcoming, supportive team.
- Knowledge of the natural world and outdoor adventure.
- Experience working with children and youth.
- Maturity, initiative, enthusiasm, flexibility, and a team-oriented attitude.
- Desire to grow as an individual and as an educator.
- Professionalism in appearance and conduct.
- Bachelor’s Degree, preferably in a related field.
- First Aid certifications such as CPR, Wilderness First Aid, and Lifeguarding are beneficial.
Degree of Physical Activity Required
- The Outdoor Educator position involves a high degree of physical activity, including:
- Frequent lifting, bending, and carrying of tools, equipment, and supplies (up to 50 lbs).
- Outdoor work in a variety of weather conditions, including sun, rain, heat, and cold.
- Regular belaying duties during climbing activities.
- Standing, walking, kneeling, and bending for extended periods while leading or assisting with programs.
- Hiking up to 3 miles while leading a group and carrying a backpack with necessary supplies.
Additional Position Details
- On-Site Housing: Includes private bedrooms, shared bathrooms, kitchen access, laundry facilities, porches, and access to 12 miles of hiking trails and 1,400 acres of natural woodlands and lakes.
- On-Call Duty: Educators living on-site are required to serve as on-call staff as assigned.
- Training: Educators receive a paid three-week training program focusing on teaching Kanuga and MTOS’s experiential outdoor education curriculum, with an emphasis on social and emotional learning and resiliency.