WE'RE HIRING!
Looking for playful, responsible, nature-loving FACILITATOR/PLAYWORKER
for outdoor classes after school and during the school day
Brooklyn Wild, a small nature and adventure play program in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, is seeking part-time facilitators for outdoor classes for pre-K – 3rd grades. Our team members are reliable, resilient, playful, creative and, above all, patient. They are comfortable working outdoors every day, in all kinds of weather, and have a deep respect for children’s autonomy and individuality.
Brooklyn Wild, LLC is a hyper-local, mission-driven company in Sunset Park, Brooklyn. We function as a low-profit LLC and measure success through our positive impact above profits. Our mission is to provide the space, time and permission for outdoor, child-led play to as many children as possible in a dense, diverse neighborhood underserved by open green spaces. We operate after school and school-day classes using the principles of forest schools and adventure playgrounds, and advocate for all children’s rights to free play and access to the outdoors.
Our facilitators bring their passion, creativity and warm, adventurous spirits to every class. They serve as a trusted adult for each student, a key source of information for parents and are hands-on in developing the curriculum and procedures for our evolving program. Applicants should have leadership experience with groups of children, such as in forest school, summer camp or early childhood classrooms.
Responsibilities:
Help create and uphold a climate conducive to free play
Be willing to train in the philosophy of playwork and demonstrate professionalism and best practices, including:
Responding to challenging behavior with compassion, respect and reasonable choices
Offering support if asked, but allowing play without interference
Not assisting children to go beyond their comfort zone or skill level
Ensure the safety of all participants through risk-benefit assessments, an understanding of the weather and positive conflict resolution
Maintain equipment and prepare class materials, including lifting or carrying up to 50 pounds
Conduct daily written reflection on play activities, take photos and attend monthly staff meetings
Commute with students from their schools to our outdoor classroom
Help students with their gear and snack, following all COVID safety guidelines
Be an advocate for free play and nature connection with parents and neighbors
Be willing to accept and act upon feedback, work through challenges as a team, and keep the children’s best interests at heart
Necessary qualifications:
At least one year of experience working with children between the ages of 3 and 10.
Ability to communicate and collaborate with a team, and be open to growing through reflection and professional development
Familiarity with the benefits of independent play and nature education
Flexibility, adaptability and patience
Punctuality and reliability, excellent time management and the ability to problem-solve independently
CPR and First Aid certification, or the ability to acquire these certifications before employment
Must pass a background and reference check and be at least 18 years old
Highly desirable, but not required:
Fluency in Spanish, Mandarin, ASL or another language besides English
Photography and video editing skills
Outdoor skills such as knot-tying, building shelters or carpentry
A knowledge and interest in outdoor experiences such as camping, hiking and exploring
Knowledge of local Brooklyn flora, fauna, history and waterways
Benefits and schedule:
Employment begins September 2020
Pay is $20 - $24/hour, depending on experience
Earn one class day of paid leave per semester after 30 days on the job
We follow the public school calendar and are closed for holidays
Hours run in two shifts: 10:30 am to 2:30 pm, Monday – Friday or 2:15 pm to 5:45 pm, Tuesdays and Thursdays. (Occasional shifts of 9 to 11 am, Monday – Friday might be available.) Shifts will be assigned a week or more in advance and be as predictable as possible
Two hours of team meetings per month, scheduled outside of class hours, based on mutual availability
Please send a cover letter, resume, and three references to info@bkwild.com. Visit bkwild.com to find out more about our program.