Join Our Team at Oak Heart Forest Program
At Oak Heart Forest Program, we believe childhood is meant to be filled with wonder, adventure, and meaningful connections to the natural world. Our mixed-age, outdoor learning community is rooted in play-based, child-led, and nature-inspired education that honors the whole child—head, heart, and hands. Our programs serve children ages 3-6 years in beautiful outdoor settings throughout the East Bay, primarily in Briones Regional Park, Martinez, California.
We are currently seeking passionate, creative, and nurturing educators who value outdoor learning and believe in the power of play, curiosity, and connection.
Current Job Opportunities
Part-Time Forest School Teacher
Oak Heart Forest Program | Martinez, CA
Position Title: Part-Time Forest School Teacher
Schedule: Part-time, approximately 3 days per week, 8:30 AM–1:00 PM.
Compensation: Hourly rate based on experience and qualifications.
Bonus: Tuition free for one child, ages 3-6yrs.
About Oak Heart Forest Program
Oak Heart Forest Program is a play-based, nature-immersive early childhood program inspired by the philosophies of Waldorf, Reggio Emilia and Forest School education. We believe children thrive when they have opportunities to explore, take healthy risks, build meaningful relationships, and connect deeply with the natural world.
Position Summary
The Forest School Teacher is responsible for creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging outdoor learning environment for children ages 3–6. This educator will facilitate child-led exploration, support social-emotional development, and foster curiosity through hands-on experiences in nature. The ideal candidate is enthusiastic, adaptable, and passionate about outdoor and play-based education.
Essential Responsibilities
• Co-teach and support mixed-age groups of children with varying abilities, promoting inclusive and respectful interactions.
• Facilitate child-led and emergent curriculum activities, including nature exploration, storytelling, crafts, and seasonal celebrations.
• Support children’s social-emotional growth, conflict resolution, problem-solving skills and independence through play and nature immersion.
• Ensure the health, safety, and well-being of students always while managing group dynamics in an outdoor environment, and encouraging appropriate risk-taking and independence.
• Cultivate children’s appreciation, understanding, and stewardship of the natural world through rich outdoor experiences and meaningful relationships with nature.
• Set up and maintain outdoor learning materials and equipment.
• Communicate professionally and warmly with families and colleagues.
• Follow all health, safety, and emergency procedures.
• Work collaboratively with teaching staff to plan and implement meaningful learning experiences.
• Model respect, positive communication, kindness, curiosity, and environmental responsibility.
Qualifications
• Undergraduate degree preferred.
• 3 + years’ experience working with children ages 3–6 in an educational setting.
• Knowledge of child development and play-based learning approaches.
• Passion for outdoor education and comfort working in various weather conditions.
• Ability to hike short distances, sit on the ground, lift up to 50 pounds, and remain active outdoors for extended periods.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Current Pediatric CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Current background clearance and Live Scan fingerprinting (or willingness to complete).
• Accredited teacher training or equivalent professional teaching experience and early childhood education knowledge, skills and abilities
Desired Qualities
• Warm, patient, and nurturing demeanor
• Flexible and adaptable mindset
• Strong observation skills
• Sense of wonder and appreciation for nature
Why Work at Oak Heart?
At Oak Heart Forest Program, we value educators who are curious, compassionate, and committed to lifelong learning. Our teachers enjoy:
A supportive and collaborative teaching community
Meaningful work that connects children with nature
Small class sizes and low child-to-teacher ratios
Opportunities for creativity and curriculum development
Professional growth in nature-based and outdoor education
The joy of spending your days outdoors with children who are eager to learn and explore
If you believe children thrive when they are given time to wonder, climb, create, and connect with the natural world, we’d love to hear from you!
How To Apply:
Please submit the following:
Resume
Brief cover letter sharing your interest in forest education and outdoor learning.
Email: oakheartforest@gmail.com
We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and are committed to creating an inclusive and nurturing community where all children and educators feel a sense of belonging.