One Cool Earth: Early Childhood Educator, Lead Playworker
position description:
One Cool Earth is seeking a passionate and dedicated part-time Lead Early Childhood Educator (Lead Playworker) to join our team and lead outdoor play experiences for young children ages 3-5. Playworkers participate as a team of naturalists/early childhood mentors to plan and implement nature-led play, exploration, and garden activities carried out at our gorgeous headquarter garden site on the outskirts of
San Luis Obispo. Playworkers are expected to be at the Play Grove site from 8:00-1:00 pm Monday through Thursdays and 8:00-3:00 pm Fridays. This position offers a unique opportunity to inspire young minds while immersing them in the wonders of the natural world. This position will report to the Director of Education.
qualifications/requirements:
High school Graduate or GED
• 12 core semester units in early childhood education/development or appropriate
age-level program curriculum and/or willingness to receive Early Childhood Education credits
• 3 + years working with young children (specifically 3-5 year olds), understanding of child development and play-based philosophy
• Current CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Proficiency with the entire Google Suite especially Google Docs, Google Sheets and
Google Calendar
• Demonstrated communications and interpersonal skills
• Ability to lead a small team of 2 Assistant Playworkers
• Have skill and practice with program planning and holding safe boundaries for children and families
• Have experience interacting supportively with parents and families
• Able to work with people of diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds
• Flexibility, adaptability, and a positive attitude towards outdoor experiences in all weather conditions.
responsibilities:
• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate outdoor activities and experiences for children aged 3-5 years old
• Work effectively with other Playworkers (staff) to coordinate activities and prepare
materials
• Meet once a week with other Playworkers to prepare for the upcoming week’s lessons and activities (collaborate, brainstorm, share resources)
• Have check-ins with each individual assistant Playworker once a month
• Ensure the safety and well-being of all children during outdoor activities, including
managing risks associated with outdoor environments and weather conditions.
○ Follow emergency procedures when necessary
• Facilitate group activities, games, and storytelling that promote social-emotional
development, teamwork, and communication skills.
• Support children as they work through social problems, practice conflict resolution with children
• Attend all relevant meetings and trainings provided by One Cool Earth
Maintain clear communication with parents regarding children's experiences, progress, and any concerns (in person and online communication via Brightwheel)
• Facilitate check-in and check-out for children and their families
• Be the first point of contact for enrolled families
• Support Director of Education and Operations Manager to recruit prospective families
○ Support with open houses and tours for prospective families
○ Support with orientation days for prospective families
• Clean up and maintain the space in an orderly fashion
• Maintain accurate records and reports
• Communicate effectively with Director of Education to meet performance expectations
• Process incident reports and perform safety checks
• Support basic maintenance for the Play Grove Garden: planting, weeding, pruning,
composting, minor irrigation adjustments and repairs
how to apply:
Email your resume, cover letter, and any relevant certifications or credentials to
Leila Daniel at leilad@onecoolearth.org. Please include "Lead Playworker Position" in the subject line of your email. Applicants will not be reviewed without a cover letter. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. We look forward to welcoming a passionate educator to our team!
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY:
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.