Youth Mentor Job Description

VWP seeks a Nature (re)Connection Mentor for our weekly 4-6 year old program.

Job Summary

The VWP Mentor is an essential member of our dynamic organization that transforms the lives of those we serve. They co-create emotionally and physically safe learning communities where play, curiosity, compassion, reciprocity and belonging are embodied as we connect youth with themselves, each other and the natural world. 

All Mentors help co-evolve and steward our programs, centering our values of shared leadership and consensus decision-making.

Responsibilities:

  • Co-create with your mentor team to design and implement experiential nature immersion programs for children, including plan, prepare, deliver, evaluate and report on each day of programming

  • Role model passion and enthusiasm for engaging with nature

  • Role model and ensure physical and emotional safety 

  • Respond to group needs and engage each participant in a positive experience

  • Check in regularly with parents to discuss the growth and challenges of their kids

  • Participate in monthly staff meetings, on-going professional development trainings, promotional events, and other meetings as requested

  • Receive and provide feedback in a clear and respectful manner for individual staff and organizational learning and growth

  • Participate in our public community events

  • Provide ongoing feedback for Young Mentors that assist in our programs

  • Uphold Vashon Wilderness Program’s mission and policies

Required Skills & Qualifications  

  • Demonstrated interest in youth development and nature-based learning 

  • Experience facilitating groups of children in an outdoor setting

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

  • Skills in nature-based related areas [examples include: wilderness and naturalist skills (i.e., wild edible and medicinal plant knowledge, animal tracking, shelter building, fire-making, bird language), hunting, boat building, farming, music, crafting, storytelling, art, drama, ecological knowledge, cultural knowledge, conservation]

  • Experience creating physically and emotionally safe learning environments for children

  • 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 diverse team, able to bring your unique voice, gifts, and contributions to a relational work setting

  • Capacity to engage in peaceful conflict resolution and restorative practices

  • 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

  • Experience as a naturalist instructor working with youth ages 4-6 in the outdoors

  • 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 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 and ability to spend time to collaborate with leadership team and carry out administrative job responsibilities, including those on a computer

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

Compensation

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

  • Hourly rates are the equivalent of $25-$27 DOE.  

  • Staff are paid for planning, field work, overnights, staff training, parent communication, meetings, community events, professional development and more.

Benefits 

  • Worker’s Compensation

  • Paid Sick Leave

  • Paid training and professional development

  • Ferry fare reimbursement for employees commuting from off-island

  • Discounts on professional gear

  • Meritorious bonuses

  • Employment may count toward Public Service Loan Forgiveness

  • 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

Positions Available

  • Youth Mentor (ages 4-6) - weekly on Fridays

How to Apply 

Compete this online application  

Deadline: There is an immediate opening and interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis until position is 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.