Summer Camp Assistant

JOB TITLE:                     Summer Camp Assistant

DEPARTMENT:             Learning and Engagement

REPORTS TO:                Community Learning Program Manager/ Summer Camp Learning Specialist

SALARY TYPE:              Seasonal Full-time – 40 hours/week

POSITION TERM:        June 3 – August 30, 2024

POSITION OPEN UNTIL FILLED. We will begin reviewing applications as received. 

Great Lakes Aquarium is seeking a Summer Camp Assistant to support our science-based camp program. The Summer Camp Assistant works with two Summer Camp Learning Specialists to supervise 12 elementary campers per week. This position could be an excellent fit for someone looking to gain experience in teaching, environmental education, coaching, or youth programming. Camps run throughout the summer weekdays from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

JOB SUMMARY:

The Summer Camp Assistant will collaborate with the Community Learning Team to lead the Aquarium’s Summer Camp programs for children ages 6-14. These programs take place every week throughout the summer. Duties include assisting with class development, set-up and the facilitation of play, guided discovery, animal care, active games, art, and science exploration related to regional wildlife and environmental topics.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Collaborate to lead summer day camp programs for children ages 6-14.
2. Remain current on relevant scientific and cultural topics.
3. Maintain a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment for campers and staff.
4. All other job-related functions as assigned by the supervisor.

SKILLS REQUIRED:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Individuals must have a working knowledge of PCs and Microsoft Office. Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills. In addition, individuals must be able to work in a team environment with minimal supervision.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

• Interest or coursework in Education, Environmental Education, Natural Sciences, or related fields. 
• Must be 18+ years old.
• Minimum of one year/season of experience working with children.  
• Experience and/or willingness to speak in front of groups of all sizes, providing interpretation with live animals.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification or ability to certify.
• Ability to modify daily plans with little notice.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS and WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, employees may be required to work in both an indoor and outdoor setting. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

When teaching outdoors, the terrain may include gravel, grass, wooded patches, steep hills, and seasonally snow and mud. Classes will be taught in all weather conditions, including but not limited to bright sun, rain, wind, heat, mosquitos, ticks, and other insects.

COMPENSATION and BENEFITS: $12/hour.  

• Free admission anytime for the employee and guests
• Free parking
• 40% discount in the gift shop