WE'RE HIRING!

Looking for playful, responsible, nature-loving FACILITATORS/PLAYWORKERS

for outdoor classes after school and weekdays

(And we're looking for Junior Playworkers too!)

Brooklyn Wild, a small nature and adventure play program in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, is seeking part-time facilitators for outdoor classes for toddlers – 5th grade. 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.

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Brooklyn Wild is a mission-driven, low-profit LLC in Sunset Park, Brooklyn. We measure success through our positive impact above profits. Our mission is to provide the space, time and permission for outdoor, child-led play and hands-on nature connection to as many children as possible in a dense, diverse neighborhood underserved by open green spaces. We operate 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. 

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Our facilitators bring their passion, creativity and warm, adventurous spirits to every class. They serve as trusted adults for each student, a key source of information for parents and are pro-active 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.

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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 immediately

• Pay is $20 - $22/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 most holidays

• Hours from March - June 2021 would be 2 pm - 5:30 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays. We're also looking to hire for summer and fall. July - August hours are 8:30 am - 2:30 pm, Monday - Friday. Fall 2021 hours are still in the planning phases, but would include 3 - 5 days per week of morning and afternoon classes. Shifts change each semester, but will be assigned 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.