Job Title: Outside Environments Manager

Location: 1925 W College Ave Santa Rosa

Job Type: Full Time 32 hours Monday - Thursday schedule some Fridays required

Hours flexing seasonally

Salary: $25-$27 hourly

Start Date: immediately

About Us:

We are a Montessori preschool serving children ages 18 months to six years old and their families.

Our program seeks to promote independence and responsibility while allowing children to experience the joy of learning at a young age. Our curriculum and environments are based on Dr. Maria Montessori’s philosophy of child development and education. We are seeking an enthusiastic and skilled Outside Environments Manager to maintain our beautiful outdoor spaces and collaborate on the development of enriching outdoor learning experiences.

Position Summary:

The Outside Environments Manager plays a key role in creating and maintaining engaging, safe, and inspiring outdoor environments for children ages 2–5. This includes the upkeep of landscaping, garden areas, and natural play spaces, as well as the implementation of outdoor learning curriculum elements aligned with Montessori's child-centered educational philosophy.

Responsibilities:

Oversee daily maintenance of all outdoor areas, including gardens, trees, playgrounds, grass yard and native plant trail.

Design, develop, and maintain seasonal edible gardens

Collaborate with teaching staff to integrate outdoor experiences into the educational curriculum

Support and supervise children in the garden or playground

Coordinate and manage outdoor materials, tools, and equipment including irrigation

Lead or support nature-based art, garden, or environmental projects

Monitor and ensure outdoor safety standards are met

Qualifications:

Minimum of 12 ECE units (Early Childhood Education) required

At least 1–2 years of experience in landscaping, gardening, or outdoor education

Strong interest in Montessori or nature-based education

Ability to engage young children in hands-on outdoor experiences

Creative, proactive, and organized with strong communication skills

CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire)

Physically able to lift, dig, and work outdoors in all weather conditions

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience with outdoor or garden-based curriculum (Montessori, experience is a plus)

Background in permaculture, horticulture, or environmental science

Benefits:

Supportive, mission-driven community

Opportunities for professional development

Access to beautiful natural learning environments

PTO, healthcare and 401k

How to Apply:

Please send your resume and a short cover letter outlining your experience and passion for outdoor learning to erica@collegeoak.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all staff and children and encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply.