Summer Camp Seasonal Naturalist

General Statement of Work
Working under the direction of full-time Naturalists, the Summer Seasonal Naturalists teach environmental science programs, lead hikes, and supervise children.

Coyote Kids (ages 4-6), Eco-Explorers (ages 7-9), AWESIM KIDS (ages 10-13), and AWESIM Teens (ages 14-16) summer science programs are based at Lord Stirling Park Environmental Education Center (EEC) in Basking Ridge, NJ. The programs offer several sessions throughout the summer. Sessions run daily, Monday through Friday, 9:00am-4:00pm. Each session is unique and promotes curiosity about the natural world through fun and immersive hands-on, place-based outdoor experiences.

The EEC is nestled within 550 acres of the western portion of the Great Swamp Basin of the Passaic River. There are nine miles of hiking trails through diverse habitats consisting of swamp, forest, pond, and meadows. This year-round Center offers hundreds of hours of educational programming and special events for participants of all ages.

Duties
1. Design, prepare, and deliver fun and engaging lesson plans for assigned environmental education and outdoor recreation themes.
2. Maintain a safe, educational, and playful environment for program participants.
3. Prepare, organize, clean-up, and sanitize daily program supplies and instructional materials.
4. Work flexible schedule, as needed.
5. Supervise educational and recreational activities such as nature hikes, canoeing, and free play.
6. Assist Naturalists as needed.
7. Present a positive image as a Park Commission representative to all facility users and the public.
8. Follow Park Commission policies and procedures.

Qualifications
Bachelor of Arts or Science degree from an accredited college or institution of higher education, or current enrollment in the field of natural sciences, parks and recreation, or education. Degrees in other fields acceptable provided applicant has experience, training or supplementary education in life sciences. Experience developing, organizing, and conducting interpretive programs for youth preferred. Familiarity with trends in Environmental Education including 21st century skills preferred. Ability to attend a mandatory training period in June and eight weeks of program sessions. First Aid and CPR certification will be included during training period. Must be able to pass a criminal background check.

Compensation
$16.00 per hour. A commitment of 40 hours per week for ten weeks from June through August 2023 is required. Learn about the field of environmental education, nature, and outdoor programs and activities. Develop communication, planning, teaching, and leadership skills. Gain experience working with children. Cultivate resume-building qualities/components. Work alongside experienced Naturalists in a long-established summer camp environment. Provide a positive education service to local children. Contribute to the health and well-being of children within the community. Students interested in applying this position toward a college internship may do so at their advisor’s discretion. Housing not provided.

https://www.somersetcountyparks.org/employment/pages/seasonal-positions 

*There is also a Summer Camp Counselor position for high school students. Please visit our website for more information.*