Assistant Instructor - Summer 2027

The Alaska Center Education Fund: Trailside Discovery Camp•Anchorage, AK

19d•Onsite

About The Position

Trailside Discovery Camp’s Assistant Instructor role is an entry-level opportunity to gain hands-on experience in childcare, outdoor leadership, environmental education, and recreation. Assistant Instructors work alongside experienced Instructors to support campers, facilitate activities, and help maintain a safe, fun, and inclusive camp environment. Training, mentorship, and support are provided throughout the summer. The 2027 summer season runs June 1 through August 6, with Daily Pop-Up Camp and Kinder Camp sessions August 9–18. In-person staff training is May 24–28, with additional virtual training beginning in mid-April on dates to be determined. Camp locations include Kincaid Park, a second Anchorage location to be announced, and Birchwood Elementary in Eagle River. Location preferences will be discussed during interviews but are not guaranteed, and staff should be prepared to travel between sites according to staffing needs. Applicants unable to work the full summer may apply; accommodations can be discussed during interviews. Staff with prior experience may be able to arrange makeup training for specific missed dates in consultation with camp leadership.

Requirements

Must be at least 16 years of age.
Available to work at least six weeks of the summer season; priority for site location and position is given to those able to work the entire season.
Attend all required pre-season staff training sessions.
Ability to spend most of the workday outdoors in varying weather conditions.
Ability to walk, hike, stand, and participate in physical activities for extended periods.
Ability to carry camp supplies and equipment and actively supervise campers outdoors.
Positive attitude and willingness to learn; dependable, punctual, and responsible.
Strong communication and teamwork skills.
Ability to adapt to changing schedules, weather conditions, and camper needs, and remain patient, energetic, and engaged throughout the camp day.

Nice To Haves

Interest in working with children and youth.
Interest in environmental education, outdoor recreation, or adventure-based learning.
Experience participating in activities such as hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, or archery.
Knowledge of Alaska’s ecosystems, wildlife, or outdoor environments.
Current Pediatric and Adult CPR and First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain certification before camp starts.

Responsibilities

Actively supervise campers throughout the camp day and help ensure they follow safety guidelines and group expectations.
Support behavior management through positive reinforcement and clear communication.
Remain with assigned groups during activities, transportation, snacks, and lunch.
Recognize and respond appropriately to emergencies, hazards, injuries, illnesses, and changing environmental conditions.
Assist with camper check-in, check-out, attendance, and headcounts.
Model respect, responsibility, and enthusiasm for campers.
Assist Lead Instructors with environmental education, outdoor recreation, and high-adventure activities, with opportunities to grow in confidence and lead lessons.
Help set up, facilitate, and clean up lessons, games, crafts, and outdoor activities.
Lead simple games, songs, and transition activities, and prepare age-appropriate backup activities when schedules change.
Help maintain organized program supplies, educational materials, and activity bins.
Assist with loading and unloading camp equipment and vehicles when necessary.
Work collaboratively with Instructors, Specialists, Site Managers, and Program Managers.
Communicate effectively with campers, families, and staff, and contribute to a welcoming, inclusive, respectful, and professional team environment.
Model responsible outdoor behavior, help campers appreciate Alaska’s natural environments, and support the camp’s nature-connection mission through experiential learning.
Leave camp sites, trails, and natural areas clean and cared for.
Attend required pre-season training, participate in staff meetings and professional development, complete the employment period outlined in the employment agreement, and follow camp policies, procedures, and safety standards.