Inspire Young Minds, Explore the Great Outdoors - Sage YMCA is now hiring an Outdoor Nature Early Learning Instructor! 

Nature Explorers Instructor will guide young children through a variety of outdoor activities, including nature walks, gardening, seasonal projects, and hands-on exploration of the local environment. This position is ideal for individuals who are enthusiastic about early childhood education, the outdoors, and making a positive impact on young children through play-based learning.

Salary starts at $16.20 per hour with opportunities to grow within the organization! 

Our staff is the Y's greatest asset. Our teams provide valuable skills, knowledge, and passion that is essential to the contribution and positive impact in our communities, which is why we offer Y employees numerous perks and benefits, including:      We offer salaries that reflect your skills, experience, and the value you bring to our team.  Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans for eligible employees, along with access to wellness programs, mental health resources, and a family gym membership.  Generous paid time off (PTO), including paid holidays. We also offer flexible work hours to help you balance your personal and professional life.  403(b) plan with company contributions after 2 years of service to help you plan for your future.  Opportunities for continuous learning through workshops and training programs.  A supportive work environment that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels welcome and respected.  Discounts on programs, employee assistance programs, and company-sponsored events. 

Scope of Responsibility

Plan and lead outdoor, nature-based activities that engage preschoolers in sensory exploration, scientific inquiry, and environmental stewardship. Activities may include plant care, animal observation, nature walks, arts and crafts with natural materials, and seasonal outdoor games.

 Encourage children to connect with their environment through interactive games, songs, stories, and play that teach about seasons, weather, wildlife, and ecosystems.

 Ensure that all outdoor activities are conducted in a safe, secure, and supervised manner. Monitor children closely, especially during outdoor explorations, to ensure safety at all times.

 Work closely with other instructors, program coordinators, and parents to maintain a consistent and effective learning experience.

 Help with the upkeep and organization of outdoor materials and equipment. Ensure the space is clean, safe, and ready for each session.

Minimum and Preferred Requirements 

Comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions (rain, wind, sun, cold).

 Experience in childcare, education, or related program.

 Must have the proven ability to establish constructive relationships and interact as a positive role model for early learners, parents/caregivers and staff demonstrating the values of respect, responsibility, caring and honesty.

 Commitment to and passion for the YMCA of Metro Chicago’s mission is required including a passion for working with diverse youth and families.

 Excellent verbal communication skills, including the ability to clearly and concisely present ideas and concepts.

 Continuous learner who leverages opportunities for learning and applies new knowledge and skills.

 Demonstrates evidence of YMCA Y Team competencies in previous experience or practice.

Child Abuse Prevention - Support the YMCA’s commitment to child abuse prevention by:  

Reporting any items that may provide a health or safety hazard to staff, members or guests to your supervisor Following all policies and procedures related to keeping children safe in our facilities and programs, including those related to the monitoring and supervision of children Reporting any suspicious behavior and violation of policy and procedures to your supervisor Completing all child abuse prevention training, as required