Outdoor School Program Educator

Position:
Program Instructor, Outdoor School (Seasonal)

Department: Instructional Services

Program: Outdoor School

Reports to: Site Supervisor and Program Supervisor

Classification/Range :
Seasonal/ Temporary

Job location :
Locations vary depending on the program. Job sites include the MESD office in Portland, various sites in Multnomah County and one coastal site. This is a seasonal exempt position.

Final date to receive applications :
Jan 16th, Applicants will be notified by Jan 16th of interview status and will typically be contacted within 5-7 business days of applying

Initial Phone/Online Interviews: Jan. 16th

Interviews: Jan 21st-22nd

Job location: Job locations vary and may include the MESD office in Portland, sites throughout Multnomah County, and one coastal location.

COMPENSATION: $684.80 per Tue-Fri week/contracted

Overnight Stipend $50/per night spent on site

Session Dates:

In-Town Training Week :
March 3rd

Prep Week :
March 10th-16th

(Onsite and Portland Office)

Week 1 March 31st-Fri 3rd

Week 2 :
April 7th-10th

Week 3 :
April 14th-17th

Week 4 :
April 21st-24th

Week 5 :
April 28th-May 1st

Week 6 :
May 5th-8th

Week 7 :
May 12th-15th

Week 8 :
May 19th-22nd

POSITION

PURPOSE:

Outdoor School Staff support a weeklong (Tuesday–Friday) residential science and community-based program for sixth-grade students in Multnomah County. The role involves co-teaching science lessons, mentoring high school Student Leaders, and fostering an inclusive, supportive learning environment. Staff model effective instruction, guide student behavior using restorative practices, support social-emotional learning, and collaborate with classroom teachers. Additional responsibilities include leading hikes, arts activities, games, and evening programs.

Staff play a vital role in creating a safe, positive, and caring environment for all students.

Regular and reliable attendance is essential to successfully fulfill this role's duties and responsibilities.

NATURE & SCOPE:

The Program Instructor operates within a collaborative and student-centered framework, contributing to a culturally responsive learning environment that supports the diverse needs of all participants. This role requires consistent application of equity-focused practices, strong interpersonal skills, and a commitment to inclusive community building. Instructors are expected to exercise sound judgment, maintain professional boundaries, and uphold MESD policies and program procedures in dynamic, outdoor residential settings.

The position involves working closely with peers, supervisors, and partner staff to ensure student well-being and to support the overall integrity and success of the Outdoor School program.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Actively supervise and engage with groups of 6th-grade students in both structured and unstructured settings. This often involves kneeling or sitting, or moving to ground level to connect with students at their physical and developmental level.
• Assist with meal supervision and food service responsibilities, ensuring a safe, respectful. And an inclusive dining environment. Supervises and performs food serving functions at meals and at other times as needed.
• Collaborate respectfully with site supervisors and partner organizations to maintain a positive and functional living and learning environment.
• Communicate appropriately and professionally with students, staff, and partners.
• Model professionalism and uphold inclusive, student-centered behavior at all times.
• Adhere to MESD policies and Outdoor School Program procedures to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of all participants.
• Support the implementation of the full program schedule, including academic instruction, recreational activities, and evening programming.
• Supervises and mentors high school Student Leader volunteers by providing clear expectations, support, and feedback to foster leadership development.
• Safely lift and move program materials such as science equipment, teaching supplies, and water containers. Participate in physical activity throughout the day across uneven terrain and outdoor environments.

• Respond effectively in medical or behavioral emergencies, including administering First Aid/CPR and responding quickly and effectively, in physically demanding or challenging situations.
• Support team operations and student safety by assisting staff as needed.
• Assist with site operations, supply management, and carry out additional duties that contribute to the effective functioning of the program.
• Performs other duties as assigned

ESSENTIAL QUALITIES:

Equity :
Lead and support regional equity initiatives

Vision :
Lead with vision, follow-through and student focus.

Trust :
Develop trust among coworkers and students through honesty and fairness.

Communication :
Communicate in an inclusive, effective and collaborative manner.

Personal Qualities :
Be respectful, excel in customer service, caring, humble and courageous.

Agency-wide perspective :
Be involved in and supportive of continuous overall improvement of MESD…