Company description

Cedar Circle Farm & Education Center is a nonprofit, certified organic farm located on conserved land along the Connecticut River in East Thetford, Vermont. Our organization has a deep commitment to developing regenerative agriculture systems for our fruit, vegetable, and flower production and to offering educational programming that builds connections between our food, ecosystems, and community. On-farm research is ongoing here at Cedar Circle, always informing and guiding our soil health and production practices.

Our farm is a community hub with a farmstand, retail greenhouses, a farm kitchen, a coffee shop, a cut flower garden, education programs, and unique CSA options. It’s a place where folks can learn about and deepen their appreciation for organic regenerative agriculture.

Our staff is a reflection of our community and is the most essential aspect of our farm. When you join our dynamic team, you’ll have the opportunity to make valuable contributions to our greater mission of promoting organic, regenerative farming and the transition to a localized food economy!

Job description

The Education Lead II is a year-round role that works closely with the Summer Camp Director in the summer and the Education Programs Manager throughout the year to bring Cedar Circle Farm's educational mission to life through creative, hands-on, student-centered experiences.

From June through August, the Education Lead II serves as the Head Educator for Summer Camp, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations and supporting campers and staff in a fun, safe, and engaging environment.

During the rest of the year, the Education Lead II helps plan and lead farm-based education programs for learners of all ages-developing curriculum, facilitating activities, and supporting meaningful connections to food, farming, and the natural world.

Schedule:

From June to August, this position follows a full-time schedule of Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. From September to May, the schedule varies based on program needs and seasonal priorities, with some evening and weekend availability required.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Summer Camp

• Partner with the Summer Camp Director to ensure smooth daily operations.
• Lead group activities, morning circles, and all-camp programs.
• Support daily check-in and check-out procedures and maintain clear, professional communication with families.
• Mentor and guide Educators, the Assistant Educator, and Mentors in Training (MIT), fostering development, confidence, and teamwork.
• Oversee the MIT program, supporting young leaders as they develop teaching and outdoor education skills.
• Float between groups to assist staff, troubleshoot challenges, and ensure a safe, inclusive environment for all campers.
• Model and uphold best practices for safety, engagement, and positive behavior management.

Year-Round Education

• Collaborate with the Education Programs Manager and fellow Education Lead to design and implement a range of farm-based programs for learners of all ages, from early childhood to adult workshops.
• Develop and refine curricula, lesson plans, and teaching materials aligned with Cedar Circle Farm & Education Center's educational goals.
• Lead or co-lead programs such as field trips, afterschool classes, early childhood sessions, homeschool programs, and seasonal workshops.
• Coordinate with other farm departments to incorporate agricultural practices, seasonal themes, and on-farm learning opportunities.
• Support and train seasonal educators, providing resources, coaching, and strategies for effective teaching.
• Participate in program evaluation, reflection, and documentation to support continuous improvement.

General Responsibilities

• Create immersive, hands-on learning experiences that foster curiosity, connection, and care for the natural world.
• Ensure all programs maintain a physically and emotionally safe environment on a working organic farm.
• Manage group dynamics, encourage teamwork, and model respectful, inclusive communication.
• Assist with program setup, cleanup, and logistical coordination.
• Other related assignments as necessary.
  

QUALIFICATIONS

• Background as an outdoor educator, classroom teacher, or in a similar leadership role working with children
• Enthusiasm for experiential, place-based education that fosters curiosity, creativity, and connection to the natural world
• Experience guiding and supporting fellow educators, interns, or volunteers in an educational setting
• Interest or experience in food systems, organic gardening, sustainability, and/or nature-based learning
• Exceptional communication and problem solving abilities; comfortable engaging with campers, caregivers, and colleagues while confidently managing group dynamics.
• Strong commitment to maintaining the physical and emotional safety of children in active, outdoor environments
• Resilience and adaptability, with the physical and mental stamina to lead engaging, high-energy programming in all types of weather while maintaining a positive and flexible mindset
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team-oriented environment and maintain positive, professional relationships.
• Ability to meet physical demands of outdoor education, such as walking on uneven terrain, standing for extended periods, and lifting up to ~25 lbs as needed.
• CPR and First Aid Certification (training can be provided if needed)

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

This position is hourly with a salary range of $19–22/hr, depending on qualifications.

Benefits include: health insurance (premium 100% employer paid, 50% paid for minor dependents); paid personal, sick, and parental leave; a 403(b) retirement plan with a 5% employer safe harbor match; short-term disability insurance (100% employer paid); 20% discount at our farmstand, café, and greenhouses; 50% off summer camp tuition for dependents; and, access to an employee assistance program.

Compensation

this position is: hourly, varies DOE, $19.00 - $22.00

Application instructions

If you are not registered, you'll be prompted to do so. Don't worry, it's free!

Deadline

no deadline