Seasonal Nature Educator

The Trustees of Reservations • Medfield, MA

8d • $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. Specifically, you’ll:

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)

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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees