Wild Whatcom is an outdoor education non-profit organization based in Bellingham, Washington, serving people of all ages throughout Whatcom County, with a focus on school-aged youth. Programs are offered year-round, including school day and after school programs, weekend outings, summer camps, Community Field Trips, and much more! Visit our website to learn more about all of our program offerings: www.wildwhatcom.org
Wild Whatcom seeks an enthusiastic outdoor and environmental educator to work as a Boys Explorers Club Mentor in the Explorers Club Program. Mentors co-lead outings for youth 2nd grade - high school, which include nature exploration, skills lessons covering a range of topics from plant identification to fire by friction, and service projects in parks and outdoor spaces in Whatcom County. Mentors are also responsible for communication with participant families, lesson preparation, and related clerical duties. Wild Whatcom is currently seeking 1 part-time mentor starting Sept 19, 2025, or by end of September at the latest.
POSITION DESCRIPTION
This part time position is 7-15 hours per week on average, working Saturday and Sunday with seasonal variability. In addition to program hours, there are approximately 1-2 hours of program prep, meetings and emailing each week, which may occur outside of Saturday and Sunday.
Compensation ranges from $18.75 - $19.75/hour. Actual compensation will reflect level of experience and qualifications relative to position requirements.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Co-lead a variety of outings with child-led, inquiry-based, experiential, and playful approaches
Participate in all required training with enthusiasm and engagement
Awaken a sense of wonder teaching natural history and outdoor skills while exploring local areas
Facilitate collaborative leadership and decision-making to augment developing life skills
Practice effective risk management at all times, creating a safe learning experience for all
Maintain clear, responsive, honest, and respectful communications with participants and staff
Serve as a mentor to participants appropriate to their needs as individuals and as a group
Work closely with other members of the field staff team to plan, prepare, and lead outings
Assist with gear maintenance, storage, and coordination
Assist with program logistics
Support and contribute to documentation/record-keeping
Share concerns and successes and seek advice from Program Coordinators or Managers to ensure program quality
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
The list below includes some of the preferred qualifications that we think prepares an individual for success in this role. If you have a combination of some of them, have similar experience, or believe you may fulfill this role well, please apply!
Passion for facilitating meaningful connections to nature and community, ideally with a basic knowledge of ecology and/or outdoor skills
Personal or professional experience recreating in wilderness environments
Strong work ethic and professional work habits (punctual, responsive, organized, detailed)
Experience working with children, specifically with behavior and risk management outdoors
Flexibility and vision to engage with and support a growing organization
Valid driver’s license and excellent driving record (background check is required)
Ability to carry 20+ lbs in a variety of weather and terrain
Current CPR certification (or willingness to receive certification before working in the field, partially subsidized by Wild Whatcom)
Current Wilderness First Aid (or higher) certification (or willingness to receive certification before working in the field, partially subsidized by Wild Whatcom)
Experience with or willingness to learn Google Suite applications such as Google drive, Gmail, and Google calendar
Strong communication skills and a desire to engage in dialogue with both participants and families
To Apply:
Position to remain open until filled. Seeking candidates ASAP.
Please submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for two references addressed to “Wild Whatcom Hiring Team” at jobs@wildwhatcom.org with your name and “Mentor Application” in the subject line. All materials should be sent as attachments in PDF (.pdf) format. Direct any questions to jobs@wildwhatcom.org.
Before actual hire, prospective employees must pass a thorough background check. If any concerns arise, we will review them with the candidate and evaluate potential implications within a broader context and relevance to the position.
Wild Whatcom is actively committed to social equity and justice and encourages candidates of all racial and gender identities, cultural, ethnic, and economic backgrounds, and of any sexual orientation to apply. Wild Whatcom is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, or marital status in employment or the provision of services.
