Volcan Mountain Foundation

Job title: Lead Educator (Outdoor Education)
Part-time, Seasonal
Start date: September 7, 2026
Pay: $25.00 - $35.52 per hour

The Mission
At the Volcan Mountain Foundation, we believe nature is the ultimate classroom. Our goal is to foster deep, sensory connections between children (Grades TK-12) and the natural world. We provide hands-on, inspiring outdoor experiences that turn the ecology of Volcan Mountain into a living textbook.
The Role

As the Lead Educator, you are the primary pedagogical voice of VMF. You aren’t just a teacher; you are a backcountry mentor, a curriculum bridge-builder, and a supervisor of our educational standards. You will ensure every student’s journey is safe, scientifically accurate, and—most importantly—unforgettable.

Key Responsibilities
Instructional Leadership & Management:
● Lead Instruction: Serve as the primary field teacher for all youth programs on VMF properties and occasional offsite locations.
● Team Supervision: Oversee instructional staff and volunteers, delegating activities and ensuring consistency across all programs.
● Logistics & Planning: Coordinate with the Program Coordinator to schedule staff/volunteers and ensure all teaching materials are prepared and maintained.
● Tailored Learning: Act as the point of contact for visiting teachers to modify or individualize lessons based on specific classroom needs.

Curriculum & Outreach:
● Program Design: Partner with the Education Committee to refine courses that highlight the unique habitats and ecology of Volcan Mountain.
● Training: Assist in recruiting and leading training sessions for new outdoor education volunteers.
● Storytelling: Represent VMF at outreach events and showcase the magic of our classes through photography and storytelling on VMF's social media platforms.

Safety & Stewardship:
● Safety First: Take primary responsibility for the well-being of students, visitors, and volunteers.
● Environment Care: Maintain the organization of classroom environments and essential educational materials.
● Compliance: Adhere to youth protection protocols and maintain current organization-provided LiveScan and First Aid/CPR certification.

What You Bring to the Mountain
● Expertise: A strong background in outdoor education with proven experience leading groups in backcountry or outdoor classroom settings.
● Leadership: The ability to manage group dynamics effectively and supervise a diverse team of staff and volunteers.
● Communication: Exceptional verbal skills with the ability to translate complex ecological concepts into age-appropriate, engaging lessons.
● Digital Savvy: Proficiency in photography and social media storytelling, along with basic computer skills for reporting and coordination.
● Physical Readiness: Must be able to hike and work outdoors in varying weather conditions and across uneven terrain.

Why Volcan Mountain?

This is more than a job; it’s an opportunity to shape the next generation of environmental stewards in one of Southern California's most beautiful landscapes. If you are a passionate educator with a love for the wild, we want to hear from you.

Benefits: 403(b) Retirement Plan with partial matching, QSEHRA health reimbursement arrangement, annual step increases, and cost of living adjustments

To Apply: Eric Jones, President and Executive Director; email resume to eric@volcanmt.org
Volcan Mountain Foundation is an equal opportunity employer.