Seasonal Nature Educator

The Trustees of Reservations•Medfield, MA

7d•$17 - $19•Onsite

About The Position

Are looking for an opportunity spend time outside this summer leading campers on exploratory nature hikes and environmental adventures? Are you energetic, fun, approachable, inclusive, smart, and have leadership qualities? If you love children ages 5-13, being outdoors, and all things nature, this job is for you! YMCA Camp at Rocky Woods is a 10-week day camp located at The Trustees Rocky Woods, a 491-acre reservation with scenic trails, stunning vistas, wildlife and ponds, and a deep history that make this a special place to work. Run by the YMCA of Greater Boston, the camp is both recreational and educational, with plenty of games and crafts in addition to immersion into Rocky Woods’ unique ecosystem. Two hours each day is spent learning from Trustees nature educators about the forest and pond flora and fauna and connecting children to the natural systems that support us all. For more information about the camp, please visit: https://thetrustees.org/program/rocky-woods-nature-explorers-camp-medfield/ The Role: As a Rocky Woods Camp Nature Educator reporting to the Lead Educator, you will collaborate on creating and implementing a 10-week curriculum centered around the four weekly themes: Earth Science, Animal Science, Aquatic Life, and Wilderness Adventure, with a STEM challenge ending each week on Fridays. Each day you will lead 20-25 campers in exploratory activities in that demonstrate how forests, ponds, and streams, and people are all interconnected via hands-on activities around Rocky Woods. Flexibility and safety are key as educators continually respond to weather and trail conditions and to the energy and interests of campers. This is a part-time, seasonal, hourly position working 17.5 hours per week reporting directly to Lead Educator at Rocky Woods.

Requirements

Reliable transportation a must
Full availability for camp staff training week and all weeks of camp
Experience working as a camp counselor, classroom teacher, or informal educator with ages 5-13
Knowledge of or interest in nature and/or education
Ability to effectively and respectfully engage campers from a variety of backgrounds in educational activities in an outdoor setting
Excellent planning and communication skills
Collaborative and flexible temperament
A great attitude about working outdoors in all weather conditions
Ability to lift 50 pounds
First Aid, CPR, and AED certification (training provided as needed)
Current authorization to work in the United States – a candidate must have such authorization by his or her first day of employment.
A satisfactory criminal background (CORI) check.
Must be willing and able to accomplish tasks in variable outdoor weather conditions throughout all seasons

Nice To Haves

Interest or working toward a degree in Education, Environmental Education, or related field
Knowledge about Rocky Woods or The Trustees a plus

Responsibilities

Leading a group of 20-25 campers along with YMCA counselors on daily two-hour nature hikes and exploratory activities
Assist with designing and implementing camp curriculum and activities based on weekly themes
Plan daily developmentally appropriate activities that get campers excited about the environment
Communicate with YMCA staff regarding camp questions and basic camper information
Perform daily chores to organize, prepare for, and close out each day
Ensure safety of campers and staff by closely following established protocols
Meet daily with Lead Nature Educator to evaluate experience and performance

Benefits

Sick Time: 40 hours
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.

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