Job Title: Preschool Teacher or Summer Camp Leader

Locations: Various Locations

Position Summary: Join The Wild School, Houston's premier nature school, and help children forge a deep, lifelong connection with the outdoors. Our mission is to inspire a love for nature through immersive, hands-on experiences that promote curiosity, creativity, and a sense of adventure. We are dedicated to providing a unique educational environment where children can explore, learn, and grow in the great outdoors.

We are seeking an experienced, self-motivated, and nature-competent educator to teach at our forest preschool programs. If you are passionate about outdoor education and fostering young children’s love for nature, we would love to hear from you.​

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with a co-instructor and Preschool and Summer Camp Lead to design and implement engaging and cohesive programs for children aged 3-5 (Preschool) and 3-12 (Summer Camp)
• Provide high-quality outdoor education instruction in various settings, such as creeks, outdoor play areas, and forest hikes
• Communicate weekly with parents and families about program curriculum, logistics, and individual student progress
• Maintain a safe and functional learning environment in all weather conditions, ensuring children are engaged and supported
• Collaborate and communicate with a parent volunteer during classes
• Contribute to the upkeep of outdoor classroom items​

Preschool Schedule: The preschool semester runs from the week of September through May

Summer Camp Schedule: June 3rd-August 8th

Required Qualifications:

• At least one year of previous experience in Early Childhood Education or a related field
• Enthusiasm for working with young children and a passion for introducing them to the natural world
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to engage effectively with parents, caregivers, and children
• CPR and First Aid Certification (must be obtained before employment begins)
• Background check required for employment

Required Skills:

• Interest and Continued Education in the following areas:
  • General naturalist studies
  • Basic outdoor skills
  • Wildlife track identification
  • Navigation and mapping
  • Central Texas hazards
  • Basic flora and fauna identification for Central Texas
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Creativity, responsibility, organization, and self-direction within small teaching teams

Preferred Skills/Training:

• Two or more years of experience teaching preschool-aged children in the outdoors
• Experience with nature connection mentoring
• Background in play-based pedagogy, informal learning, or European-based forest schools

Compensation:

• Starting at $15 per hour, depending on experience

Benefits:

• Paid training and professional development
• Training manual provided at the time of hiring
• 30% off classes and preschool for your children

If you are excited about the opportunity to work in a dynamic and natural setting, fostering a love for the outdoors in young children, we encourage you to apply.

Apply Now

Job Title: Nature Class Leader

Locations: Various Locations Across Houston

Start Date: Ongoing ​

Position Summary: Join The Wild School as a Nature Class Leader and play a pivotal role in fostering a love for the outdoors in children. As a Nature Class Leader, you will guide children through immersive, hands-on nature experiences, encouraging exploration, curiosity, and a deep connection to the natural world. If you are passionate about outdoor education and have a knack for engaging and inspiring young minds, we would love to have you on our team ​

Position Schedule: This position is part-time, with classes typically held during weekdays. Specific hours may vary based on class schedules. Class Schedule will be set on a weekly basis depending on the classes and locations you are running.​

Responsibilities:

• Lead nature-based classes for children, creating a dynamic and engaging learning environment
• Develop and implement lesson plans that incorporate outdoor activities, games, and educational content
• Supervise and ensure the safety of all participants during outdoor activities
• Foster a positive and inclusive atmosphere where children feel comfortable to explore and learn
• Communicate regularly with parents and caregivers about class activities, objectives, and their child's progress
• Maintain and manage outdoor classroom spaces, ensuring they are safe and conducive to learning
• Collaborate with other instructors and staff to continuously improve program quality and participant experience
Teach some classes that include caregivers, ensuring they are comfortable and engaged

Required Qualifications:

• At least one year of experience in outdoor education, environmental science, or a related field
• Experience working with children in an educational or recreational setting
• Strong leadership and organizational skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to create engaging and educational lesson plans
• CPR and First Aid Certification (must be obtained before employment begins)
• Background check required for employment

Required Skills:

• Basic Knowledge of local flora, fauna, and ecosystems
• Basic outdoor skills, including navigation and safety
• Ability to engage and inspire children through storytelling, games, and hands-on activities
• Strong problem-solving skills and adaptability in an outdoor environment
• Creativity and enthusiasm for nature-based learning

Preferred Skills/Training:

• Degree or coursework in environmental education, biology, or a related field
• Experience with nature connection mentoring programs (e.g., Art of Mentoring, Coyote Mentoring)
• Previous experience leading nature classes or outdoor camps
• Familiarity with play-based and experiential learning methods

Compensation:

• Starting at $14 per hour, depending on experience

Benefits:

• Paid training and professional development
• Training manual provided at the time of hiring
• 30% off classes and preschool for your children
• Possibility to extend employment into the summer for summer camps in 2025

If you are excited about the opportunity to work in a dynamic and natural setting, fostering a love for the outdoors in young children, we encourage you to apply.

Apply Now