Outdoor Educator Sprouts Nature School

Sprouts Nature School is a year-round, outdoor education program serving children ages 4–12 through nature-based after‑school programs, homeschool days, no‑school days, and summer camps. Our programs take place in parks, gardens, and natural spaces around Madison and focus on hands‑on learning through ecology, gardening, outdoor cooking, art, play, and exploration.

We are hiring a Full‑Time Summer Outdoor Educator to support our 2026 Summer Camp season.

• Training week:
  Part‑time the week before camps begin
• Full‑time season:
  June 15 – September 4

• Monday–Friday
• Between 8:00am and 4:30pm (exact hours vary by camp schedule)
• Plus weekly paid planning time (can be completed on a flexible schedule)

This position is ideal for someone who loves working with children, enjoys being outside in all weather, and wants a meaningful summer job rooted in nature, creativity, and community. You’ll co‑lead groups of kids through hands‑on outdoor activities while helping create a warm, safe, and joyful learning environment.

• Lead and support outdoor summer camp groups for children ages 4–12
• Facilitate activities such as:
  • Nature exploration & environmental science
  • Gardening and food growing
  • Outdoor cooking & campfire activities
  • Games, free play, and seasonal crafts
• Support social‑emotional development and inclusive group dynamics
• Help with setup, cleanup, and lesson preparation
• Assist with park transitions and transportation support

• $24/hour (Independent Contractor)
• Includes paid planning time

• Experience working with children (education, camps, childcare, or similar)
• Comfortable being outdoors in all weather
• Reliable, communicative, and responsible
• Able to lead groups with warmth, structure, and confidence
• CPR & First Aid certification (must be current or obtained before start date)

• Outdoor or environmental education background
• Gardening, foraging, or outdoor cooking experience

Sprouts is a small, heart‑centered, and growing outdoor school with a collaborative, democratic leadership style. Educators are encouraged to bring their own ideas, interests, and creativity into the curriculum — your voice matters.

We are flexible and responsive, and we value curiosity, initiative, and thoughtful collaboration. This is a chance to spend your summer outside with kids, building skills, confidence, curiosity, and a deep connection to the natural world.

There is also the possibility for this position to continue into the fall and beyond.