Nature Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

ODC Network is a nonprofit organization dedicated to outdoor education and conservation throughout West Michigan. At the heart of our mission is the ODC Early Childhood Network, where we proudly offer nature-based discovery preschools in Allegan and Ottawa County.

Our commitment is to provide enriching early childhood learning opportunities for children aged 0-5, fostering the development of social, emotional, and academic skills. The ODC is looking for teachers with a genuine love for young children and a commitment to high quality care who are talented, enthusiastic, and motivated to be part of our team. Teachers at all ODC Early Childhood Centers must be willing to spend time outdoors in all weather with their students!

The Assistant Teacher will work with the Lead Teacher and Teaching Team to provide a high-quality, developmentally appropriate nature-based preschool experience for children ages birth to kindergarten entry and work actively with ODC Network staff to ensure children have a strong connection to nature

ODC Network Diversity Policy Statement: The ODC Network is an equal opportunity employer. To read our diversity statement, go to: click here

Primary Responsibilities:

• Serve as assistant for assigned classes.
• Participate in and help lead activities including but not limited to: interacting with students in nature and in the classroom setting, engaging students in learning activities, preparing meals and snacks, and maintaining a safe learning environment.
• Change the diapers/pull ups of children and manage potty training needs.
• Partner with Lead Teacher and other Assistant Teacher(s) in development and planning of age-appropriate learning activities, such as small groups/enrichment activities for individual children and outdoor activities, based on nature-based curriculum and philosophy.
• Assist Lead Teacher with organization of outdoor and indoor classrooms and learning resources.
• Actively participate in large group activities, nature hikes, and explorations.
• Complete daily anecdotal note taking.
• Communicate with parents about their child’s development and daily experiences.
• Participate in staff meetings, staff professional development events, and other ODC Network events (some of which may be scheduled outside normal work hours).
• Document child’s day using the Procare App.

Professional Responsibilities: Maintain educational and training requirements for child care licensing and quality program assessments.

Supervision/Evaluation: Supervision and evaluation will be provided by the Site Director. This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

Other Skills and Abilities:

• Maintenance of a healthy, safe, and positive environment for childcare staff and children
• Collaboration with parents, children and colleagues
• Demonstrated interest in helping to teach and develop young children and early childhood education.
• Strong decision making skills to respond to emergencies or difficult situations
• Commitment to learning in nature and being outdoors.
• Willingness to spend a significant amount of time outdoors each day, in all types of weather. 
• Demonstrated good character, responsibility and suitability to meet the needs of children with diverse backgrounds and learning differences.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team. 
• Ability to pass a complete Michigan background check, including fingerprinting.
• Current certification in First Aid/CPR, or willingness to receive training if needed.
• Willingness to work in other classrooms with ages ranging from 6 weeks- 5 years old as needed.

Education/Experience:

• Experience working with children and families
• Preferred Credentials: Current Infant/Toddler or Preschool CDA or willingness to achieve

Physical Demands: This position requires the following physical activities: pushing, pulling, climbing, walking, standing, squatting, stooping, kneeling, twisting, reaching, sitting, lifting, bending, finger dexterity, grasping, repetitive motions, talking, hearing and visual acuity. The work/teaching is performed indoors and outdoors. Additionally, this position requires occasionally lifting up to 50 pounds and walking, standing, and sitting for extended periods of time.

Equipment Operated:  Must be proficient with Microsoft Office applications, Google, and the operation of general office equipment.

These job responsibilities represent only the essential and most significant duties of the position. This job description does not exclude other work assignments, directives and responsibilities not mentioned above.

ODC Network complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact Kaylee Mesbergen, Chief of People & Culture at kaylee@outdoordiscovery.org.