Lead Environmental Educator (Carkeek/ Discovery Park)

Lead Environmental Educator (Carkeek/ Discovery Parks)

The Associated Recreation Council is recruiting for enthusiastic and engaging Summer Lead Environmental Educators to join our teams at Discovery and Carkeek Parks. Both parks offer extraordinary opportunities for nature adventures including forests, meadows, wetlands, creeks, and beach access.

2026 Summer Day Camp Schedule:

• June 29 - August 21, 2026 (No camp July 3)
• Monday- Friday, up to 40 hours per week.
• Shifts will be 7-8 hours per day starting between 8:00am- 9:00am (subject to change based on business need).
• Mandatory pre-camp training and orientation will be held June 16 and 17 and June 22-26.

Pay Range:

• Starting pay Range: $25.00-$28.13 (Depending on experience)
• Full pay range $25.00-$31.25 (Over time, the employee in this role may earn up to $31.25/hr with additional years of service.)

Lead Environmental Educator Responsibilities:

Relationship Building

• Create a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all participants

• Collaborate with Director and a team of educators to ensure safety of all participants

• Collaborate with Director and a team of educators to manage behavioral concerns of all participants

• Communicate with parents, coworkers and Seattle Parks and Recreation partners in a professional and courteous manner

• Attend all required meetings and trainings (paid)

Care and Safety

• Maintain a safe, friendly, and fun learning environment.

• Able to supervise up to 18 participants at a time, with a co-educator.

• Serve as a positive role model for campers and use positive behavior guidance strategies.

• Complete required accident/incident forms if participants or instructors are injured

Programming Requirements

• Guide children ages 6-12 in hands-on, environmental education activities
• Work closely with the Director and a team of educators to plan and implement programs and activities
• Guide 15-18 children, ages 6-12, while exploring forest, beach, meadow, and pond environments
• Lead other educators and direct games and activities (including songs and art projects) for 20-50 campers
• Work outdoors rain or shine and keep high energy and engagement while exploring for long periods of time
• Be flexible, adaptive, and willing to provide constructive feedback of the program
• Ability to lift and/or move 25-50 pounds
• Ability to stand and walk for an extended period of time over rugged terrain

Lead Environmental Educator Minimum Qualifications:

• At least 2-years experience working with children, preferably in an outdoor setting;

• Two years of college level education or equivalent experience, preferably with course work in the natural sciences and/or education;

• Demonstrated experience working with families, community members and partners to foster positive relationships;

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision;

• Ability to work collaboratively with team members of diverse backgrounds;

• Valid WA driver's license and First Aid/CPR certification or ability to obtain;

• Commitment to work full summer program.

• If hired, must pass criminal background check, provide proof of eligibility to work in the US and sign up for direct deposit with either checking or savings account

Lead Environmental Educator Desired Skills/Abilities:

• Experience working with a diversity of youth
• Experience working with large groups of children, ages 6-12
• Knowledge of Pacific Northwest plants, animals, and ecosystems
• Knowledge of child development and teaching methods
• Ability to develop creative lesson plans
• Experience in visual and creative arts

Benefits:

• This is a summer only position. Benefits include 401(k) (if eligible), Employee Assistance Program, Paid Sick and Safe Time (PSST).

Number of vacancies and Location:

• 3 Lead Educators at Carkeek Park

• 3 Lead Educators at Discovery Park

We are actively interviewing for this role, so if this role is a good fit for you and you want to learn more about it, please apply now.