Nature Day Camp Counselor

~ Chippewa Nature Center (CNC) is a non-profit organization that works to connect all people to nature through educational, recreational and cultural experiences. ~

The 1,200-acre property includes woodlands, fields, ponds and rivers. CNC’s facilities consist of a Visitor Center with an Ecosystem Gallery, public spaces and classrooms; an 1870s Homestead Farm complex (sugarhouse, cabin, schoolhouse); Nature Preschool; an arboretum and 19 miles of trails.

Position Overview

Inspire children to build a lifelong, meaningful relationship with the natural world as you help them to catch frogs at the pond, create a miniature homestead village in the woods or learn how to paddle on a river.

Join a team of creative, energetic professionals who work together to connect children with nature through educational, recreational and cultural experiences. CNC is in search of Camp Counselors with a passion for making a difference in the lives of children by providing powerful, dynamic programs in the outdoors. Counselors will teach campers from preschool to 9th grade, including children with special needs.

They will facilitate experiences in the areas of field ecology, historic farm life, sensory awareness, wildlife studies and nature crafts. Canoeing, kayaking and overnight camping trips are also included for some programs. Campers attend programs from 9:30 am until 3:30 pm Monday through Friday.

Objective: To develop programming and implementation of predetermined camps for campers to support and strengthen their relationships with the natural world.

Status: Seasonal

Schedule:

• Paid staff training: June 11-15 and July 2-3
• Camp sessions run June 18 through August 17
• There will be no camp for a mid-summer break, July 4-6

Responsibilities

• Supervise campers, ensuring their safety and well-being
• Plan and teach daily lessons following the goals and objectives for each program
• Follow and enforce all camp policies, rules and regulations
• Provide First Aid to campers according to camp policy
• Communicate with families regarding camper needs, safety concerns, dietary considerations and camp highlights/experiences
• Supervise and evaluate CITs that are assigned to your group
• Mentor Junior Counselors that are assigned to your group
• Communicate regularly with the Leadership Team
• Participate in pre-camp and on-going trainings
• Other duties as assigned by the Camp Director or Assistant Director

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Experience working with children
• Experience and desire to work in an outdoor setting
• First-aid and CPR certifications (or ability to become certified)
• Valid Chauffeur’s License (can be obtained after hire)
• 18 years of age or older by the beginning of the first camp session
• Physically able to lift 50 pounds
• Ability to work varied hours, including some evenings

Preferred Qualifications:

• Preference will be given to those who have earned or are working toward a degree in outdoor recreation, biology, ecology, environmental education or other related field
• Knowledge of local natural resources (ecology, identification of birds, plants, etc.)
• Personal or professional experience camping, canoeing and kayaking is helpful

Compensation: Starting salary is $370 per week with additional stipends for overnight camps ($60/night in the field). Staff receive a 20% discount in the Nature Center Store. Uniform shirts are provided.

To Apply

Please click "Apply" below to upload your cover letter and resume to Steve Frisbee, Camp Director.

Application Deadline: February 9, 2018. (Interviews will be held by invitation February 17, 2018)