What's Happening?
POST, a student-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Seattle, is seeking an Outdoor Education Program Coordinator. This hybrid position requires the individual to work in or near Seattle, WA. The coordinator will work part-time, approximately 16-20 hours
per week, with additional stipends for trip attendance. The role involves overseeing all trip programming for Post 84, which runs 16-18 trips annually for 30-120 students, primarily from Seattle Public Schools. Key responsibilities include preparing for trips, serving as a point person for student trip leads, recruiting chaperones, and attending and overseeing all trips. The coordinator will also manage gear storage, support the director team, and ensure compliance with Boy Scouts of America (BSA) protocols. Minimum qualifications include a high school diploma, current Wilderness First Responder certification (or completion within three months of hire), a safe driving record, and experience in camping/outdoor recreation and youth mentorship. The position requires working with high-school-aged youth and authorization to work in the U.S., with candidates needing to be 25 or older for background check purposes.
Why It's Important?
This hiring initiative by POST is significant for several reasons. It underscores the continued demand for outdoor education programs that provide experiential learning opportunities for youth, particularly those facing systemic barriers to participation. The hybrid nature of the role reflects a broader trend in the job market, offering flexibility while still emphasizing the need for local presence and in-person engagement for operational aspects. For the Seattle community, the role is crucial in sustaining Post 84's mission of teaching outdoor skills and fostering leadership development among high school students. The emphasis on expanding racial diversity within POST highlights a commitment to inclusivity in outdoor education, addressing historical disparities in access. The requirement for specific certifications like Wilderness First Responder also emphasizes the importance of safety and professional standards in youth outdoor programming, ensuring that participants are in capable hands during potentially challenging outdoor activities. This position directly contributes to the well-being and development of young individuals by providing them with unique growth experiences outside traditional classroom settings.
What's Next?
The immediate next step is for POST to review applications and conduct interviews for the Outdoor Education Program Coordinator position. The application deadline is September 18, 2026, with a projected start date of September 28, 2026. Once hired, the new coordinator will undergo an onboarding process, which will include obtaining Wilderness First Responder certification if not already held, paid for by POST. The coordinator will then integrate into the existing team, collaborating with the Executive Director, Assistant Director/Wilderness Program Director, and student leadership. They will begin overseeing trip preparations for upcoming outdoor excursions, ensuring all logistical and safety protocols are in place. Regular attendance at weekly Executive Committee meetings, monthly board meetings, and various staff trainings and events will be part of their ongoing responsibilities. The successful candidate will also be instrumental in continuing POST's efforts to make outdoor experiences accessible and inclusive for a diverse student population, further developing the program's reach and impact within the Seattle area.
Beyond the Headlines
Beyond the immediate hiring, this role reflects a broader societal recognition of the value of outdoor education in youth development. In an increasingly digital world, programs like those offered by POST provide essential opportunities for young people to develop resilience, problem-solving skills, and a connection to nature. The hybrid work model, while practical for administrative tasks, also highlights the inherent need for hands-on, in-person leadership in outdoor settings, where direct supervision and mentorship are critical. The commitment to expanding racial diversity within POST speaks to a larger movement within outdoor recreation and education to address historical inequities and ensure that these enriching experiences are available to all youth, regardless of background. This position also subtly reinforces the enduring legacy and structure of organizations like the Boy Scouts of America, under which Post 84 operates, adapting traditional models to contemporary needs and values. The long-term impact of such roles extends to fostering a new generation of environmentally conscious and capable leaders within communities.
