Open Air Classroom Environmental Educator--Full-time/Seasonal

The 4-H Learning Centers at Tanglewood and Blueberry Cove provide environmentally-focused outdoor education programs for Maine youth in Lincolnville and Tenants Harbor. In this role, you provide hands-on ecology immersion programming for students as part of our Open Air Classroom. All school programming is customized and features our Earth Connections curriculum as well as BEETLES teaching methodology. Programs work with students in grades K-12 in schools, virtually, and in person at our Learning Centers.

In this role, you are an educator, developing and implementing program curricula, schedules, and new projects in support of our overall mission.

Fall/Winter/Spring Responsibilities:

• Develop and teach hands-on, ecology, STEM, group building, and outdoor skills-based lessons to grades K-12 for day, overnight, and after-school programs
• Deliver programs in schools and at multiple sites, including our learning centers in Lincolnville and Tenants Harbor, ME (some travel is required)
• Teach and facilitate 4-H agriSTEM programming virtually via Zoom
• Contribute ideas for continual development of programs, interpretive trails, and educational displays
• Work independently and with staff to develop and maintain teaching resources
• Participate actively in staff training, ongoing professional development, and daily staff meetings to plan and evaluate programs
• Take part in routine tasks of cleaning and kitchen duties, gardening, general camp chores, and upkeep of program spaces to support the staff community
• Demonstrate responsible and safe decision-making skills in all aspects of outdoor programming
• Transport students in University vans to program sites
• Foster interpersonal relationships that reflect courtesy, civility, and mutual respect
• Work approximately 40 hours per week (typically) Monday morning through Friday afternoon with some evening and weekend program responsibilities

Qualifications:

• Experiential education experience with youth, preferably in an outdoor setting
• Knowledge of ecological concepts and natural history
• Ability to work in an active, outdoor environment in a variety of weather conditions
• Safely lead groups over various terrain (uneven ground, roots, uphill hiking), while carrying a small backpack with teaching and first aid supplies
• Basic First Aid/CPR certification
• Hold a valid driver's license with the ability to drive camp vehicles, towing canoe trailers at times 
• Preferred: Wilderness First Aid; lifeguard certification 

Dates and Compensation:

• September 12-October 28, 2022, or into the winter months
• $450/week (pre-tax) with increases dependent on experience and certifications
• Rustic housing and food are provided when programs are in session, staff are responsible for assisting with some meal preparation and clean up

The University of Maine System is considered a federal contractor and therefore required to comply with the directives of civil authorities regarding COVID vaccinations. As of January 4, 2022, new hires are required to be fully vaccinated or have submitted a request for a religious or medical exemption on or prior to their start date. 

The University of Maine is an EEO/AA employer and does not discriminate on the grounds of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender expression, national origin, citizenship status, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran’s status in employment, education, and all other programs and activities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies: Director of Equal Opportunity, 101 North Stevens Hall, University of Maine, Orono, ME  04469-5754, 207.581.1226, TTY 711 (Maine Relay System).

How to apply:

Apply online at umaine.edu/tanglewood/employment/apply. For more information please contact extension.tanglewood4h@maine.edu