Summer Programs Instructor – Brightwater

IslandWood Overview:

IslandWood Summer Camps at the Brightwater Center invite children to discover a new way of seeing nature, themselves, and one another. In doing so, each person comes to understand their ability to change the world for the better. At the Brightwater Center, IslandWood operates traditional day camp programs for campers entering 1st grade through those entering 6th grade, and half-day programs for PreK through Kindergarten students (starting at age 4). Running from late June through mid-August, these experiences directly promote IslandWood’s mission of inspiring lifelong learning and environmental and community stewardship.

Position Summary:

Summer Programs Instructors are responsible for leading educational programming using curriculum that integrates science, technology, arts, teambuilding, and adventure learning. IslandWood’s Summer Programs primarily serve children entering 1st through 6th grade and include mentoring teen volunteers (Volunteers in Outdoor Leadership/VOLs) for the summer. Brightwater programs take place at the Brightwater Education Center in Woodinville. The Center is located on King County property and includes a wastewater treatment plant, 72 acres of natural area, and a state-of-the-art learning center, laboratory and exhibit hall. Our camp programs utilize the features of the Brightwater Center including the ponds, streams, well-equipped laboratories, and the wastewater treatment plant itself. Additionally, select camp sessions will have opportunities for staff to take their group on off-site field trips to nearby parks, beaches and other natural spaces using IslandWood’s 12-passenger van.

Work Schedule:         Monday through Friday
Work Hours:               8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Job Duration:             22 June thru 10 August 2026              
Pay Rate:                    $23.98/Hour
Work Location:          On site:  BrightWater Environmental Education Center

Responsibilities:

• Develop and teach week-long camp programs for children ages 6-12.
• Abide by Brightwater’s safety procedures and protocols as stated in your Summer Camp Instructor Handbook and ensure the safety of participants at all times.
• Mentor teen volunteers.
• Participate in staff training, which may include additional training on driving the van.
• Attend daily debrief and prep meetings.
• Support IslandWood’s strategic plan to expand our mission and impact, and commitment to mission, vision, values and goals of IslandWood.
• Demonstrate commitment to IslandWood’s work towards equity, diversity and inclusion in the workplace

Required Qualifications:

• Current First Aid & CPR certification required
• At least two years’ experience in teaching or environmental education
• Ability to work as a collaborative and cooperative team member
• Comfortable working with kids of diverse ages, backgrounds, and developmental stages
• Strong work ethic, punctual, flexible, dependable, and responsible
• Excellent interpersonal skills with staff, campers, and families
• Skilled at spreading calm and responding to parent concerns
• Must be at least 21 years old (25 years old to drive the van)
• Must be able to comply with and maintain a drug-free work environment
• Must pass child safety screening procedure; post-offer

IslandWood is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes applications from qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.