We’re Hiring!

JOB TITLE: Outdoor Play Facilitator

Location: Lethbridge, AB
Pay: $25/hour
Schedule: 1 day per week (Fridays, 9:15 AM – 4:15 PM)
Start Date: April (Spring Session)

We’re looking for a passionate and reliable Outdoor Play Facilitator to join our team! This role is perfect for someone who loves nature, enjoys working with children, and wants to fill a day in their week with fun and meaningful outdoor experiences.

We run three 10-week programs (Winter, Spring, and Fall) as well as three Summer Camps in July (each lasting 4-5 days for 4-6 hours per day). Summer camp work is optional but available if desired.

ABOUT US

Academy in the Wild is a nature-based learning program where children explore, connect, and grow through outdoor play. We’re passionate about fostering curiosity, resilience, and confidence in children of all ages, in all weather conditions.

JOB DESCRIPTION

We’re looking for a reliable, dedicated and enthusiastic outdoor facilitator! This role involves supporting nature-based programs, helping to facilitate outdoor learning experiences, and creating a safe, engaging, and child-led environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Support and occasionally lead outdoor learning experiences for children, ensuring safety while encouraging exploration and play.
  • Plan and facilitate nature-based activities, including storytelling, group games, wilderness skills, and ecological learning
  • Supervise and engage with children in all weather conditions.
  • Foster curiosity, confidence, and resilience through a child-centered approach.
  • Communicate with parents and caregivers about their child’s experiences and progress.

QUALIFICATIONS 

REQUIRED:

✔ Experience working with children (e.g., childcare, education, camp counseling, coaching, etc.).
✔ Ability to be reliable and consistent, as children thrive on familiarity.
✔ Valid Police Background Check & Vulnerable Sector Check (required before starting).
✔ Reliable transportation to and from work.
✔ We respect each family’s unique, upbringing, background and beliefs, including but not limited to religious, cultural, political and worldly views. Our role is to support children in nature, based learning not to promote any particular worldview.
✔ Knowledge (or willingness to learn) about:

  • The benefits of risky play, free play, and nature-based learning
  • Using thought-provoking language
  • Understanding risk vs. hazard in play environments
  • The principles of forest schools (If unfamiliar, please research before applying.)

PREFERRED: (but not required)

➕ Background in education, early childhood development, environmental studies, or a related field.
➕ Forest School Practitioner Certification.
➕ Musical skills (singing or playing instruments).
➕ Outdoor survival/wilderness knowledge.

KEY SKILLS & TRAITS WE LOOK FOR:

Passion for Outdoor Learning: A genuine love for nature and play-based learning.
All-Weather Adaptability: Comfort working outdoors in various conditions. Proper clothing and footwear (including waterproof boots or closed-toe strap sandals) are required.
Physical Endurance: The ability to hike over uneven terrain while carrying a provided backpack weighing 30 to 40 pounds. Should be comfortable with sustained physical activity in various outdoor conditions.
First Aid & CPR Certification (or willingness to obtain).
Adaptability & Spontaneity: Ability to adjust activities based on the needs and moods of the children. Always have a few backup nature-based games or activities in mind!
Calm Under Pressure: Ability to maintain a positive, upbeat attitude even in challenging situations.
Strong Sense of Community: Understanding the importance of teamwork and camaraderie among children.
Observant & Attentive: Awareness of children’s moods, needs, and interests to guide activities effectively.
Self-Motivated: Ability to take initiative and engage with the program independently.

WHY JOIN US?

• A supportive and passionate work environment.
• The opportunity to grow in outdoor education.
• A dynamic, creative, and playful work atmosphere.
• The joy of making a difference in children’s lives through nature-based learning.

HOW TO APPLY

Apply by March 31st by filling out the form below and uploading your resume and a brief cover letter explaining why you would make a good fit for this role. If we think you’re the right match, we’ll be in touch to set up an interview. Until then, keep exploring, adventuring, and enjoying the great outdoors!

📩 If you have any questions, feel free to reach out at hello@academyinthewild.com.