YELP Afterschool Educator (Part-time)

  • Position Type: Part-Time / Entry-Level

  • Target Audience: Public School Students (Grades 5–8 / Middle School)

  • Location: Buncombe County, NC

  • Schedule: Monday – Friday, 3:30 PM 6:30 PM (approx. 8–15 hours/week)

  • Compensation: $24.10 an hour

About the Role

Are you passionate about the environment, nature, and youth development? Are you interested in teaching or youth leadership but looking for a place to start? The YELP (Youth Environmental Leadership Program) Afterschool Educator position is an entry-level opportunity designed for enthusiastic individuals who are new to the field of education. No prior professional teaching experience is required—we provide all the training, tools, and lesson plans you need! As a YELP Educator, you will lead engaging, hands-on environmental education activities for 5th through 8th-grade students in local public middle schools. You will help students explore topics like sustainability, local ecosystems, conservation, and climate awareness through interactive lessons, projects, and games. BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) individuals are strongly encouraged to apply, and so are candidates dedicated to anti-racism, gender inclusivity, and inclusion.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lesson Delivery: Facilitate pre-designed, hands-on environmental science lessons and activities for groups of 5th–8th grade students.

  • Student Engagement: Build a welcoming, inclusive, safe, and encouraging classroom environment where youth feel comfortable asking questions, exploring nature concepts, and sharing ideas.

  • Classroom & Group Management: Maintain positive behavior support and foster teamwork and respectful communication among middle schoolers.

  • Preparation & Materials: Set up instructional materials before sessions begin and ensure classrooms/learning spaces are cleaned up and restored after class.

  • Professional Growth: Actively participate in paid training sessions, team meetings, and professional development coaching.

  • Safety & Supervision: Ensure student safety at all times during classroom activities, outdoor explorations, and dismissal routines.

What We Look For

  • Interest in the Environment: A genuine curiosity or passion for nature, conservation, environmental science, or sustainability.

  • Willingness to Learn: Openness to receiving coaching, trying new teaching strategies, and learning classroom management skills.

  • Enthusiasm & Energy: Ability to connect with, motivate, and mentor middle school youth (5th–8th grade).

  • Dependability: Punctual, reliable, and committed to showing up consistently for students.

  • Communication: Clear, friendly communication skills with students, fellow staff, and program supervisors.

Qualifications & Requirements

  • Currently in High school or enrolled in College.

  • No prior formal teaching experience required (experience working with youth as a camp counselor, babysitter, volunteer, or coach is welcomed).

  • Ability to pass a standard criminal background check and background screening required for public school staff.

  • Reliable transportation to and from assigned school site(s).

Benefits & What We Offer

  • Paid Training & Mentorship: Comprehensive orientation, pre-scripted lesson plans, and ongoing support from experienced educators.

  • Hands-on Experience: Great entry point for resume-building in education, environmental studies, non-profit work, or youth development.

  • Consistent Part-Time Hours: Ideal schedule for college students, or anyone seeking supplemental afternoon income.

  • Impactful Work: Make a tangible difference in public school students' lives by inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.

Application Process

To apply, send a letter of interest and résumé in PDF form via email: careers@ashevillegreenworks.org Please, no phone calls.

This position is open until filled. Résumé review will begin in mid-November 2026.

Asheville GreenWorks is an equal opportunity employer, committed to recruiting a diverse pool of qualified candidates for the position. Applicants will not be discriminated against because of race, color, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, citizenship status, disability, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, medical condition or any protected category prohibited by local, state or federal laws. Asheville GreenWorks is Living Wage Certified byJust Economics of WNC.