Outdoor Education Facilitator Apply
Program overview:
Pathfinder provides 1 to 4 day outdoor adventure programs to groups of youth and adults in a variety of settings, primarily camp and conference centers in central Florida.
Pathfinder is accredited through the Association of Experiential Education (AEE) and uses the experiential model as its guiding educational principle.
Facilitators lead groups through team building activities, low and high challenge course, canoeing, outdoor skills, tree climbing, and environmental education classes based on the clients selected schedule.
A typical staff day is 8:00 am -10:00 pm and includes breaks and meals.
Staff facilitate from 6 to 25 participants at a time depending on the activity. They will work alone and in teams at various times according to the schedule.
Client groups range in size from 5 175 participants and range in age from elementary to adult.
Programs are held in the front country - i.e. lodging is in climate-controlled dorms. Meals are served in a dining hall and there is access to electricity. Most sites have moderate cell coverage.
Meals and lodging are typically provided while on program. Staff lodging is separate from clients.
Long term lodging is not provided as part of this position.
Job description:
Each facilitator works with groups of participants following the customized program schedule. The facilitator is responsible for establishing a tone of fun, inclusion, and growth; helping the group set agreements; and working toward the groups goals. Facilitators assess the needs of their group and work within the limits of the schedule to select activities that will provide a fun and meaningful experience. The facilitator is responsible for the safety of the group and must follow Pathfinder procedures and policies. All the facilitators assigned to a program work as a team to prepare, set up, clean up, and debrief the event.
Technical and content-oriented skills:
Technical skill training is provided. Previous experience with any of the following is preferred:
Facilitation of team-building activities, social emotional learning, and self-development.
Facilitation of low challenge course and high ropes.
Facilitation of canoeing.
Facilitation of tree climbing.
Facilitation of outdoor living skills (fire-building, shelter building, night hikes etc.).
Facilitation of environmental programs with an emphasis on Florida ecology and conservation.
Degree in outdoor education, environmental education or related field is not required but is a plus.
Interpersonal skills:
Facilitation training is provided and ongoing. The most successful facilitators have already cultivated some of the following abilities:
Be punctual and dependable.
Role model healthy and empowered decision-making skills.
Demonstrate compassion, patience, and sensitivity to diverse populations.
Build rapport with and experientially engage groups of various backgrounds and ages.
Facilitate group discussions which result in social skill building and goal-setting.
Assess learner needs and adapt lesson plans accordingly.
Be proactive, flexible, and willing to both give and receive feedback in productive, growth-oriented ways.
Qualifications:
Ideally some experience working with youth in a camp or educational setting.
Ability to work full and active days outside in Florida weather.
Reliable transportation to our partner sites (see website for locations).
Ability to lift and/or move up to 40 lbs.
Internet access and ability to communicate regularly by phone and email.
Minimum 20 years of age.
Work schedule, start date, and training:
Working weeks averages 20-30 hours over 2-3 days including evenings and weekends.
Amount of work varies from month to month or different seasons.
Start date: training and observation is available at select times.
First Aid, CPR/AED, Lifeguard, Challenge Course, High Ropes and Tree Climbing training are provided during this time or on an as-needed basis.
Application process:
Review our website. - https://www.pathfinderoutdooreducation.org/employment
Complete the Pathfinder Employment Application online and attach a copy of your resume and a cover letter. You may also download a PDF and email your materials to breanne@pathfinderoutdooreducation.org, or send via mail to 1310 22nd Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33705.
Interview and, if local, observe programing at one of our sites.
If employed, a background check will include fingerprinting and criminal history.
Compensation Range: $15.50 and up per hour depending on experience and educational background.
Pathfinder is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building a diverse community that is inclusive of people from all backgrounds.
People of color, LGBTQIA+, bilingual and bicultural people are strongly encouraged to apply.
Job Types: Part-time, Seasonal
Pay: $15.50 - $18.50 per hour
Work Location: On the road
