Founded in 1990, Laguna Canyon Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and protecting the South Coast Wilderness, a 22,000-acre network of open space surrounding Laguna Beach in Orange County, California which is on traditional lands of the Tongva and Acjachemen peoples.
We acquire open space to add to system of protected lands that make up the South Coast Wilderness, offer education programs for school children and the general public, maintain and improve trails, restore habitat and conduct other land management activities throughout the South Coast Wilderness. The Conservation Department currently manages over two dozen conservation projects over more than 300 acres.
LCF is an equal opportunity employer and encourages BIPOC candidates, those identifying as LGBTQIA+ and other people from groups traditionally underrepresented in the environmental field to apply.
Job Description Summary
Laguna Canyon Foundation’s Field Educators support the organization’s goals and objectives by bringing awareness of and engagement with the open space to local Title I elementary school students. Throughout the school year, Laguna Canyon Foundation will host approximately 50 field trips, during which each field instructor will lead a grade-specific educational hike for approximately 15 students and their teachers and chaperones. Typical workdays and hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday from 8:30am-12:30pm. Occasional field trips will have a different schedule.
During each grade-specific trip, students will enjoy an outdoor adventure that encourages a scientific mindset while connecting with nature through fun activities and exploration. Students will “think like a scientist” and leave with ideas and tools to explore and wonder about nature wherever and whenever they see a patch of green in their world.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Commit to lead educational hikes up to 3 days a week when school is in session and weather permits.
- Adhere to written program guidelines (NGSS-based) to teach children grade-specific curricula.
- Encourage engagement, observations, and wonder with each student.
- Understand and carry out both oral and written instructions.
- Perform other teaching duties as assigned or requested.
- Other tasks as assigned.
Requirements:
- Commitment to the vision and mission of Laguna Canyon Foundation.
- Demonstrated experience working with children of a variety of ages in an outdoor environment, showing patience and kindness.
- Knowledge of local plant and animal life and ability to memorize and recall facts, figures, and information. LCF will provide training and materials before the school year.
- Ability to interact successfully with supervisors, teachers, and parents.
- Punctuality, flexibility, and dependability.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to hike up to 3-4 miles on rough terrain in various weather.
- Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university with coursework in environmental studies, sustainability, science, or a related field preferred.
- Ability to speak Spanish preferred.
- CPR/First Aid certification (which LCF will offer as part of the onboarding).
- Fingerprinting for background checks may be required.
- Over 18 years old.
- Access to reliable transportation to arrive on time for shifts.
- COVID-19 vaccination is required (with medical and religious exemptions as required by law).
Hiring Details:
- Position starts at $21.75 per hour based on qualifications and experience.
- Part-time seasonal position starting 10/14/24 and ending 06/13/25.
To apply, send your resume and cover letter to Taylor McGrath at taylor@lagunacanyon.org.