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 the 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.
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.
Position Summary:
Laguna Canyon Foundation’s Field Educators support the goals and objectives of the organization 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.
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 will 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 at least two of our mornings to lead educational hikes in the canyon each week during the school year.
- 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 prior to the school year.
- Ability to interact successfully with supervisors, teachers, and parents.
- Punctuality, flexibility, and dependability.
- Strong oral and written communication skills.
- Ability to hike up to 3-4 miles on rough terrain, in a variety of weather.
- Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university with course work in environmental studies, sustainability, science, or 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 at shift on time.
- COVID vaccination is required (with medical and religious exemptions as required by law).
Salary and Benefits:
- Hourly rate starting at $21 (based on qualifications and experience).
- This is a seasonal position beginning in October 2023 and ending in June 2024.
Hiring Details:
Please send a cover letter and resume to Taylor McGrath at taylor@lagunacanyon.org