Seasonal Lead Environmental Educator (Appleton)

The Trustees of Reservations • Ipswich, MA

10d • $18 - $20 • Onsite

About The Position

As the Lead Environmental Educator, you will bring your expertise and passion for environmental education to work with Camp Educators and campers on a curriculum that leverages the deep resources of the Farm’s education department to support campers in learning about essential agricultural activities and practices. With rolling grasslands, grazing livestock, vegetable gardens, an educational barnyard, and miles of trails, Appleton Farm Camp offers a uniquely immersive summer experience. Campers are introduced to Appleton’s historic working farm and expansive landscape through exciting, authentic educational activities. Our program for ninety campers ages 4–14 is inspired by this exceptional property and builds on The Trustees’ expertise in nature conservation, historic landscapes, regenerative agriculture, and culinary exploration. As the Lead Environmental Educator, you will coordinate daily routines, weekly themes, and periodic workshops for all staff that include educational activities and chores in the barnyard and education garden; exploring this historic property and its many wild habitats; learning about food production, sustainability, and ecology; art and craft making; and free play. We offer two weeks of collaborative paid training to prepare our staff for this complex, challenging, and rewarding work. Prior to camp, you will work part-time with year-round staff May 11–June 5 to prepare materials and spaces for staff training and the camp season, and assist leading training activities for staff.

Requirements

• Demonstrated skills in environmental education and curriculum development a must.
• Knowledge of or interest in farm-based education, food, and sustainability.
• A bachelor's degree in environmental or agricultural education, the sciences, education, or other relevant course of study is preferred.
• A special interest in outdoor education, especially in a farm-based setting, and a great attitude about working outdoors in all conditions.
• Part-time availability in late May and early June for planning and preparation.
• Experience working as a camp counselor, classroom teacher, informal educator, and/or childcare provider with children ages 4-14.
• A willingness to learn, bringing passion and enthusiasm to working with young people each day.
• A desire and ability to share your passion for the natural world with children from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to lift 40 pounds.
• Must be at least 21 years old.
• Full availability for camp staff training weeks (June 8-19) and all nine weeks of camp (June 22–August 21), Monday through Friday, 8:00AM-4:00PM; part-time availability prior to June 8 to assist with camp preparation.
• Reliable transportation to work every day.
• CPR and Basic First Aid certifications required; an on-site training option will be provided.
• A valid driver’s license, as well as a satisfactory driving record as outlined in The Trustees’ driving policy.
• Proof of physical exam within 18 months and required immunizations.
• Current authorization to work in the United States by the first day of employment.
• A satisfactory criminal background (CORI) check.

Responsibilities

• With support from senior staff and using farm resources, design camp curriculum and lead daily activities based on farming, food, sustainability, and the natural world.
• Support camp educators/counselors with activity development and group management assistance.
• Provide floating support to camper groups and senior staff as needed.
• Provide leadership in uses of the Learning Garden and Education Barnyard.
• Provide leadership in developing outdoor culinary activities for campers.
• Partner with Assistant Camp Directors to mentor counselors in developing daily and weekly schedules.
• Inventory supplies and prepare supply orders.
• Communicate with camper parents regarding camp questions and basic camper information.
• Perform daily camp staff schedule reviews to organize and prepare for each day.
• Meet periodically with Camp Director to evaluate experience and performance.

Benefits

• Sick Time: 40 hours of paid sick time upfront.
• Reciprocity: Employees have access to free and discounted admission and membership to more than 50 nearby museums and cultural institutions.
• Discounts: Enjoy free entry to all Trustees properties, discount event tickets, and discounted merchandise at our stores and on stays at our inns.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees