Outdoor education, School gardens

Position: School Garden Educator
Organization: Squamish CAN (Climate Action Network)
Location: Squamish /Sḵwx̱wú7mesh, BC

Type: Multiple positions, part-time (1-3 days per week)
Duration: Onboarding week of Sept 7th, classes run September 20 - October 30, 2026

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About Us

Squamish CAN is a dynamic and mission-driven non profit that is committed to empowering our community with just and actionable solutions to the climate crisis through education, policy development and systems change. We were established in 2009 and focus on creating tangible, community-based solutions to reduce carbon emissions through strengthening food systems and working towards zero waste. We are a friendly group of staff and board members who care deeply about climate action in Squamish.

Position Overview

The School Garden Educator will play a vital role in designing, implementing, and facilitating hands-on, garden-based learning experiences for students ages 5–13. This position requires an enthusiastic and adaptable educator who is passionate about outdoor education and sharing the joy of growing food with students. Each educator will be responsible for leading garden lessons at their respective school garden, as well as maintaining the overall cleanliness, health, and productivity of the garden throughout the teaching months. 

The School Garden Educator will collaborate closely with teachers, staff, and volunteers to integrate garden activities into the broader curriculum and school community. Ideal candidates will bring a foundational knowledge of growing food plants, though support and training are available for those who are eager to learn and grow in the role. The successful candidate is hands-on, organized, enjoys working outdoors, and is excited to inspire curiosity, stewardship, and connection to food and nature in young people.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and facilitate engaging, age-appropriate lessons for students ages 5–13
• Maintain and steward an assigned school garden, including planting, watering, harvesting, and seasonal upkeep
• Ensure the garden remains clean, safe, and productive throughout the teaching months
• Integrate garden activities with classroom curriculum in collaboration with teachers
• Foster curiosity, environmental stewardship, and a positive relationship with food and nature among students
• Manage basic garden tools, materials, and supplies responsibly
• Adapt lessons to varying learning styles, weather conditions, and group needs
• Communicate regularly with program staff regarding garden progress, and find support during off season

Qualifications & Skills

• Passion for outdoor education and working with children ages 5–13
• Ability to adapt lessons and activities to include students of various abilities and needs
• Foundational knowledge of growing food plants, or strong interest to learn
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate clearly with students, staff, and program partners
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to coordinate support with other program staff
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively as part of a team
• Reliable, self-motivated, and comfortable working outdoors in varying conditions

Experience:

• Minimum of two years of experience in outdoor education or equivalent experience
• Minimum of one year managing a garden or outdoor growing space

Compensation and Benefits

• Hourly wage is $30 - $32 per hour (based on experience)
• Opportunities for professional development, mentorship and growth

Shifts Available

Please indicate in your application which schools and shifts you are interested in. Onboarding occurs at the beginning of September with teaching shifts starting the week of September 20th and ending Oct 30th.

• Valleycliffe Elementary - Thursdays, 8:30-3:30 pm
• Garibaldi Highlands Elementary - Two days a week (TBD which days), 8:30 -3:30pm
• Skyridge Montessori - Fridays, 8:45 am - 11:15 am

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Statement

The Squamish Climate Action Network is committed to strengthening and contributing to an inclusive community. This requires that we address the structural conditions that underlie unequal access to resources and engage multiple ways of knowing and being. Indigenous persons, women, people of colour, all genders, 2SLGBTQI+ and persons with disabilities are encouraged to participate in our climate action in ways that matter most to them. We aim to design our programs, services and recruitment processes through the lens of diversity, equity and inclusion for all.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to Marissa Carlberg, Community Food Systems Manager: marissa@squamishcan.net, with the subject line “School Garden Educator Application.”

Please mention you saw this at GoodWork.ca.

Applications are due by August 13th with interviews taking place August 17-21.