Short-Term, Part-Time Outdoor Educator

Wild Lab Program

Position Details

Employment period: September 1–October 22, 2026, including a two-week program break
Locations: Kathryn Albertson Park, Veterans Memorial Park, and Esther Simplot Park in Boise, Idaho
Schedule: Three days per week, 9:45 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
Compensation: $1,440 total, paid in three biweekly payments of $480

About NOLA

The National Outdoor Learning Alliance (NOLA) is a Boise-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to improving students’ academic success and overall well-being through place-based education. Through programs such as Wild Lab, we partner with local public schools to provide meaningful outdoor learning experiences that inspire curiosity, build resilience, and deepen students’ connection to the natural world.

Position Overview

NOLA is seeking an enthusiastic and dependable Outdoor Educator to join our Wild Lab team for Fall 2026!

In partnership with the Boise School District, NOLA will provide a hands-on outdoor science program for sixth-grade students during six program weeks in September and October. A new group of students will participate each week, completing the same three-day curriculum focused on climate resilience.

The Outdoor Educator will facilitate lessons for a small group of approximately 8–10 students, with one or two school-provided chaperones present. Program locations rotate among Kathryn Albertson Park, Veterans Memorial Park, and Esther Simplot Park.

This is an ideal opportunity for someone who enjoys working with middle-grade students, feels comfortable teaching outdoors, and wants to help young people develop curiosity, confidence, and a meaningful connection to nature.

Required Schedule

Applicants must be available from 9:45 a.m.–1:30 p.m. on all 18 program days:

  • Week 1: Tuesday, September 1–Thursday, September 3

  • Week 2: Tuesday, September 8–Thursday, September 10

  • Week 3: Wednesday, September 16–Friday, September 18

  • Week 4: Tuesday, September 22–Thursday, September 24

  • Week 5: Wednesday, September 30–Friday, October 2

  • Program break: October 3–19

  • Week 6: Tuesday, October 20–Thursday, October 22

Additional substitute hours may be available. There may also be opportunities to continue working with NOLA during fall, winter, and spring break programs and summer camps.

Key Responsibilities

  • Create a safe, welcoming, and supportive learning environment for approximately 8–10 sixth-grade students.

  • Facilitate provided outdoor science lessons and hands-on activities focused on climate resilience.

  • Encourage student curiosity, participation, collaboration, and connection with the natural world.

  • Build positive relationships with students while supporting their developmental and emotional needs.

  • Follow all established safety protocols, risk-management practices, and emergency procedures.

  • Adapt lessons and activities as needed based on weather, site conditions, and student needs.

  • Communicate clearly, professionally, and promptly with NOLA staff, Boise School District teachers, and school chaperones.

  • Help foster an inclusive environment in which every student feels safe, respected, and encouraged to participate.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have:

  • A genuine passion for outdoor education, place-based learning, and working with young people.

  • Previous experience working with children.

  • An understanding of the developmental and emotional needs of children ages 10–12.

  • A warm, encouraging teaching style that helps students feel connected, capable, and engaged.

  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

  • Dependability and the ability to commit to all 18 scheduled program days.

  • Flexibility and comfort working outdoors in changing weather conditions.

  • The ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team.

Physical Requirements

Applicants must be able to:

  • Lift and carry at least 40 pounds.

  • Walk and hike over uneven terrain.

  • Remain active outdoors for the duration of each program day.

  • Work outside in a variety of seasonal weather conditions.

How to Apply:

Complete the fields below and submit your resume to Alexis@outdoorlearningalliance.org with the subject: “Wild Lab program”

This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position and is not exhaustive. Duties may be modified, added, or reassigned based on camp needs and staffing requirements.

At the National Outdoor Learning Alliance (NOLA), we believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are fundamental to fulfilling our mission in making the outdoors an accessible place for all. We are committed to fostering an environment where all individuals, regardless of their background, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or any other dimension of diversity, feel valued, respected, and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work.

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