Assistant Youth Mentor Job Description 

VWP is hiring several Assistant Nature (re)Connection Mentors to co-create emotionally and physically safe learning communities at our weekly Friday programs:

  • Wind Gatherers (ages 4-6)

  • Fire Tenders (ages 7-12)

Job Summary

The Assistant Youth Mentor position is designed for individuals (aged 21+) who may be new to the field of nature (re)connection mentoring and are motivated to learn and grow within the role. All Assistant Mentors help co-create and offer youth programs while centering our values of shared leadership and consensus decision-making. 

Responsibilities

  • Collaborate with your mentoring team to plan, prepare, deliver and debrief each program day

  • Help build positive relationships and facilitate social-emotional growth for the children

  • Tend to the physical and emotional safety of the group

  • Help prepare the supplies for each program day

  • Play, explore, laugh, and learn alongside the children 

  • Participate in monthly staff meetings and professional development activities

  • Attend week-long pre-program training 

  • Attend program overnights (if applicable)

  • Uphold Vashon Wilderness Program’s mission and policies

Required Skills & Qualifications  

  • Interest in youth development and nature-based learning 

  • Commitment to children’s social and emotional well-being and sensitivity to participants’ life experiences and physical/emotional needs

  • Excellent listening and compassionate communication skills

  • Commitment to creating an inclusive environment for all students

  • Commitment to the mission and values of VWP 

  • Capacity and commitment to work as a contributing member of a team, able to bring your unique voice, gifts, and contributions to a relational work setting

  • Current First Aid/CPR certifications (or able to acquire before working)

  • Able to move around outdoors, while carrying some program gear, in a variety of weather conditions for hours at a time

  • Able to pass a background check

Preferred Qualifications

  • Training and or experience in mentoring styles that utilize experiential, play-based, child-centered learning

  • Knowledge of Pacific Northwest hazards, mammals, tracking, edible/medicinal plants, navigation without map/compass, field ecology, trees, survival techniques, birds/birdsong, or history of local Indigenous Nations and right relations

  • Knowledge and/or training in justice, equity and belonging work

  • Bilingual skills a plus

Physical Requirements

  • Willingness and ability to spend significant time outdoors in all weather conditions interacting with children and families

  • Willingness to be regularly exposed to fire, smoke, water, and outdoor risks and hazards 

Compensation

  • The Assistant Mentor position is part-time salaried, non-exempt.

  • Hourly rate is equivalent to $20; total contract amounts depend on program placement.

  • Staff are paid for planning, prep, field work, debrief, staff training, professional development and meetings.

  • Additional hours may be possible as a substitute mentor.

Benefits

  • Worker’s Compensation

  • Paid Sick Leave

  • Paid training 

  • Ferry fare reimbursement for employees commuting from off-island

  • Discounts on professional gear

  • Meritorious bonuses

  • Belonging in a community that values earth-based wisdom

  • Supporting others in their journey of deep nature connection

  • Receiving support for your own learning and growth

How to Apply 

Compete this online application

Deadline: June 30th; interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis until positions are filled. 

Anti Discrimination Statement

VWP works to create a welcoming, inclusive community where all individuals feel a sense of belonging. Discrimination and harassment in any form have no place in our organization, programs, activities, or interactions.

Current research shows that people from marginalized groups including people of color, LGBTQ+, and women are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet all the criteria listed in the job application. Your life story, knowledge, and wisdom harvested from experience are incredibly valuable and welcomed!

We encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply, including people of diverse races, ethnicities, religions, languages, abilities, gender identities, sexual orientations, and ages even if you believe you do not meet all of the desired qualifications.