Wild Whatcom is a flourishing non-profit organization dedicated to connecting youth to nature and developing positive character traits through outdoor exploration and discovery. We provide experiential learning opportunities that inspire participants to explore, connect, and serve, while building healthy relationships with nature, community, and self.

Wild Whatcom seeks a motivated and highly-skilled educator to co-lead nature explorations, outdoor skills sessions, service projects, summer camps, and wilderness trips for a variety of Wild Whatcom programs.

Position Description & Logistics

Wild Whatcom Mentors help organize and guide outings for youth throughout Whatcom County. Compensation begins at $14 per hour dependent upon experience, with a possible increase within the first year, based on positive performance and additional duties. This Mentor position will be part-time, year-round.

Start date: Thursday, August 22, 2019 is the preferred start date. We are willing to be flexible for the right candidate.

For the 2019-20 school year (September-June), this position will feature mostly weekend work (see below), which will then transition to 30-40 hrs weekly work during summer 2020. There is a high likelihood of increased hours for this position in the 2020-21 school year. See specific details of this position’s seasonal variability below:

2019-20 School Year

(August 22, 2019-June 2020)

Potential for 40-50 hours/month (average of 10 hours/week with some seasonal variability) working mainly within Boys Explorers Club. Potential for some mid-week schools program hours dependent on grant funding, availability, and interest.

Summer

(June-August 2019)

5-6 weeks, spread out over this time period, working as a Mentor for our summer camps or backpack trips. Each week includes up to 40 hours of work, mostly occurring on weekdays, including preparation and field time. Main program: Summer Adventures (See below)

Responsibilities

● Co-lead a variety of outings with child-led, inquiry-based, experiential, and playful approaches. Participate in all required training with enthusiasm and engagement.

● Awaken a sense of wonder teaching natural history and outdoor skills while exploring local areas.

● Facilitate collaborative leadership and decision-making to augment developing life skills.

● Practice effective risk management at all times, creating a safe learning experience for all.

● Maintain clear, responsive, honest, and respectful communications with participants and staff.

● Serve as a mentor to participants appropriate to their needs as individuals and as a group.

● Work closely with other members of the field staff team to plan, prepare, and lead outings.

● Assist with gear maintenance, storage, and coordination.

● Assist with program logistics.

● Support and contribute to documentation/record-keeping.

● Share concerns and successes and seeks advice from Program Coordinator, Program Managers, and Executive Director to ensure program quality.

Required Qualifications

● Humor, adaptability, and inspiration for facilitating meaningful connections to nature and community.

● Strong work ethic and professional work habits (punctual, responsive, organized, detailed).

● Environmental, outdoor, or youth education experience.

● Experience working with children.

● Demonstrated ability to monitor variable conditions constantly to ensure group safety while also remaining attentive and focused on learning goals and the unique needs of each participant.

● Ability to prioritize effectively and handle multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.

● Flexibility and vision to engage with a growing organization.

● Basic knowledge of ecology and outdoor skills.

● Personal or professional experience traveling and living in wilderness environments.

● Valid driver’s license and excellent driving record (background check is required).

● Ability to carry 40+ lbs in a variety of weather and terrain.

● Current First Aid/CPR certification.

● Tetanus booster within the past 5 years.