The Aldo Leopold Nature Center (ALNC) seeks engaging and responsible outdoor educators to help initiate our new After School Enrichment Program beginning in September 2022. ALNC is a non-profit educational organization guided by Aldo Leopold’s land ethic, with a mission to engage and educate current and future generations, empowering them to respect, protect, and enjoy the natural world. ALNC serves more than 50,000 children, teachers, members, and families annually through year-round programming that includes field trips, summer camps, nature preschool, etc., as well as public and private events.

ALNC is an equal opportunity employer committed to building and serving a diverse staff and community. Individuals from traditionally underrepresented groups, in particular racial and ethnic minorities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and multilingual applicants are strongly encouraged to apply.  

Tentative Position Start Date: August 29, 2022
This full-time position includes one week of staff training (August 29 - September 2) prior to the start of the After School Program kick-off on September 6, 2022.   

Position Overview
The After School Environmental Educator (EE) position provides a unique opportunity to work full time/year round at ALNC! After School EEs support students by providing nature-based after school enrichment to local elementary students. In addition, these EEs will provide flex support across other ALNC programs as needed throughout the year.  

EE candidates must possess an appreciation for science education and a commitment to conservation and working with children in an outdoor nature setting. Qualified EEs will employ a multicultural lens and value the importance of providing nature-based experiences for historically marginalized communities. A passion for working with children from all backgrounds is essential, and an interest in the natural world is important.

Specific Job Duties

• Plan weekly nature-based thematic units, prep materials, and lead outdoor learning and enrichment experiences for a group of After School program participants (grades K-5) five days per week.
• Support students with homework help.
• Nurture student relationships using positive and supportive strategies.
• Exercise flexibility in developing program structure based on requirements articulated by grant funders and the Department of Public Instruction criteria.
• Assist with planning, prep, and implementation of ALNC Vacation Day Full-Day care programs for students when Madison / Monona Grove School Districts are closed. 
• Teach school field trip programs on a flexible basis (i.e., when not enough Field Trip EE’s are available).
• Provide flex support to the Aldo Leopold Nature Preschool (ALNP) with lunch and other coverage as needed.
• Pick up After School students at school sites using the ALNC van; safely buckle students into travel car seats (harnesses) and ensure accurate attendance.
• Lead summer camp groups during the summer months.  
• Position hours are generally 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM Monday-Friday during the school year (with some flex to reach 40 hours per week), and 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Monday-Friday during the summer.  

Qualifications

• Ideal candidates will demonstrate the following:
• Work collaboratively within a team environment.
• Demonstrate flexibility, initiative, and the ability to problem solve situations that arise.
• Possess experience working with a wide range of elementary-aged youth within an  educational or similar setting.
• Have an understanding and/or passion to learn restorative practices and support the development of student positive behavior.
• Is comfortable supporting youth with differing needs, interests, behaviors, etc.
• Possesses a multicultural lens and philosophy of supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout all curriculum and activities.  
• Excellent communication skills; comfortable interacting with a wide range of people (parents, fellow educators, administrators, etc.) 
• Timely and consistent attendance to ensure program needs are covered.  
• Has a valid driver’s license and is comfortable driving program participants in a 15-passenger van.
• Certified in First Aid/CPR (ALNC will pay for training as needed).
• Fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
• Successful candidates must pass a background check and fingerprint screen.

Preferred:

• Degree in environmental education, education, natural science, or a related field. However, experience can supplant a degree, as ALNC values wisdom and experience and understands that this may not come through a formal degree.
• Familiarity with and knowledge of regional flora and fauna.
• Spanish language proficiency strongly preferred!

Compensation & Benefits
This is a salaried position with starting pay between $34,000-$36,000 annually. ALNC offers medical and dental insurance (60/40 employer/employee split), life insurance, two weeks paid vacation to start (increases at three years and five years), eight paid holidays, and a 403(b) retirement plan with employer match at 3%. Staff receive 50% off tuition for all ALNC programs.