Description

Role Overview 
HAWKs Educators lead small groups of children on hikes and outdoor activities, teaching nature-based lessons while inspiring curiosity, confidence, and environmental stewardship. Educators are responsible for creating a fun, safe, and engaging learning experience while helping explorers build community and forge connections with nature. This position is for HAWKs Los Angeles, the flagship of HAWKs Kids. 
This role is hands-on, outdoors, and collaborative. 
  
Key Responsibilities 
1. Program Delivery & Group Leadership 
Lead groups of 8–14 explorers (ages 5–16) with a co-educator on hikes, with games, and hands-on activities. 
 
Teach nature-based lessons focused on ecological systems, environmental science, and conservation. 
 
Lead nature-themed games, songs, crafts, and activities that inspire curiosity and creativity. 
 
Teach and model trail safety and Leave No Trace principles during all programming. 
 
Adapt activities to the age, interests, and skill level of each group to ensure a positive learning experience. 
 
2. Safety & Risk Management 
Ensure the physical and emotional safety of all explorers during hikes and programming. 
 
Monitor group dynamics and diffuse conflicts between participants as needed. 
 
Lead children safely across varied terrain, including streams, steep trails, and wildlife habitats. 
 
Carry and manage a first aid kit, water bladder, and other field essentials during all programs. 
 
3. Family & Team Communication 
Communicate with parents and caregivers before and after programming using the registration and messaging platform. 
 
Provide updates on explorers’ experiences, highlights from the day, and any concerns. 
 
Collaborate closely with co-educators and senior team members to ensure seamless program delivery. 
 
4. Contribution to HAWKs Culture 
Create a positive, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all explorers. 
 
Act as an ambassador for HAWKs’ mission, modeling environmental awareness and respect for nature. 
 
Support fellow educators and share knowledge, tips, and techniques to strengthen the team’s collective impact. 

Requirements

Education & Experience 
 
Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, education, biology, or related fields preferred. 
 
Previous experience working with children or in outdoor education strongly preferred. 
environment. 
 
Creative and engaging teaching style, able to make complex topics fun and accessible. 
 
Ability to identify and support the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical needs of explorers. 
 
Physical Requirements 
 
Ability to hike 5–8 miles while carrying a day backpack with water, first aid supplies, and materials. 
 
Ability to lift up to 40 pounds as needed for program setup and support. 
 
Additional Requirements 
 
Fluency in local ecosystems, native plants, and wildlife preferred. 
 
Reliable transportation to programming locations. 
 
Current CPR/First Aid certification (required or obtained within 90 days). 
 
Wilderness First Aid certification is a plus. 
 
Punctual, dependable, and enthusiastic about working outdoors.