Educator

HAWKs (Hiking Adventures With Kids) Lake Norman - Educator
Reports to: Field Operations Manager / Franchise Owner
Location: Charlotte – Lake Norman – Cornelius – Huntersville – Davidson - Mooresville
Position Type: Part-Time to Full-Time

Role Overview

HAWKs Educators lead small groups of children on hikes and outdoor activities, teaching

nature-based lessons while inspiring curiosity, confidence, and environmental

stewardship. Educators are responsible for creating a fun, safe, and engaging learning

experience while helping explorers build community and forge connections with nature.

This role is hands-on, outdoors, and collaborative.

Key Responsibilities

1. Program Delivery & Group Leadership

• Lead groups of 8–14 explorers (ages 5–12) with a co-educator on hikes, with games,

and hands-on activities.

• Teach nature-based lessons focused on ecological systems, environmental

science, and conservation.

• Lead nature-themed games, songs, crafts, and activities that inspire curiosity and

creativity.

• Teach and model trail safety and Leave No Trace principles during all

programming.

• Adapt activities to the age, interests, and skill level of each group to ensure a

positive learning experience.

2. Safety & Risk Management

• Ensure the physical and emotional safety of all explorers during hikes and

programming.

• Monitor group dynamics and diRuse conflicts between participants as needed.
• Lead children safely across varied terrain, including streams, steep trails, and

wildlife habitats.

• Carry and manage a first aid kit, water bladder, and other field essentials during

all programs.3. Family & Team Communication

• Communicate with parents and caregivers before and after programming using the

registration and messaging platform.

• Provide updates on explorers’ experiences, highlights from the day, and any

concerns.

• Collaborate closely with co-educators and senior team members to ensure

seamless program delivery.

4. Contribution to HAWKs Culture

• Create a positive, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all explorers.
• Act as an ambassador for HAWKs’ mission, modeling environmental

awareness and respect for nature.

• Support fellow educators and share knowledge, tips, and techniques to strengthen

the team’s collective impact.

Qualifications

o Education & Experience

o Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, education,

biology, or related fields preferred.

o Previous experience working with children or in outdoor

education strongly preferred.

• Skills & Competencies

o Passion for nature-based learning and inspiring children to connect with the

environment.

o Creative and engaging teaching style, able to make complex topics fun and

accessible. Ability to identify and support the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical

needs of explorers.

• Physical Requirements

o Ability to hike 5–8 miles while carrying a day backpack with water, first aid supplies,

and materials.

• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds as needed for program setup and support.

o Additional Requirements

o Fluency in local ecosystems, native plants, and wildlife preferred.

o Reliable transportation to programming locations.

o Current CPR/First Aid certification (required or obtained within 90 days).

o Wilderness First Aid certification is a plus.

o Punctual, dependable, and enthusiastic about working outdoors.

Success in This Role Looks Like

• Explorers are safe, engaged, and inspired during every program.
• Families feel informed and connected to their child’s experience.
• Programming is delivered consistently and reflects HAWKs’ values and curriculum.
• Educators create a supportive, collaborative environment for participants and fellow

team members.

Pay: $20.00 - $25.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule

Work Location: In person

Salary : $20 - $25