Summer Camp Counselor

Application Deadline: March 1st, 2024. Application may close early if hiring needs are fulfilled earlier.

Employment Dates: 5/28 - 7/26 (No camp for the week of 7/1 - 7/5). Mandatory pre-camp training takes place 5/28 - 5/31.

Counselors must be available for all camp dates in order to be eligible for hire.

Compensation: $14.50 - 17/hr, determined by experience and education.

Apply online at https://tnidiscoverydaycampstaff.campbrainstaff.com/.

The Nature Institute is a private non-profit conservation organization that fosters an awareness and appreciation for the natural world through preservation, restoration, and education. The Nature Institute manages nearly 500 acres along the Mississippi River bluffs in Godfrey, IL. This property includes a variety of natural communities protecting a diverse population of plants and animals. In 1982, The Nature Institute held its first Discovery Day Camp at the Olin Nature Preserve in the historic Talahi Lodge. Each year the camp has successfully grown and it remains the only nature camp of its kind in the St. Louis metropolitan area. Open in June and July, the camp is offered to ages 3 - 14 and open to children of all backgrounds.

Summer Day Camp Counselor Position:

The Nature Institute is looking for fun, energetic Camp Counselors for the summer of 2024. Counselors will interact daily with campers, lead hikes, crafts, and teach ecological programs. We’re seeking individuals that are passionate about the natural world with a willingness to learn (and try!) new things. This position is Monday through Friday from 8 - 3:30. There is also an opportunity to help lead an overnight campout for our Middle School campers.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 16 years of age.
• Applicants must be certified in CPR and First Aid. (Training Provided).
• Applicants must possess enthusiasm, patience, desire, and leadership skills.
• Be self-motivating and be able to work as a team to supervise and guide campers and volunteers.
• Applicants will be required to work outside in all types of weather conditions and be on their feet for long periods of time.
• Applicants must attend mandatory camp staff training prior to working with campers.
• Applicant selection will favor those who are available for all 7 weeks of camp and be available Monday through Friday 8-4.
• Applicants must undergo a standard background check.
• The Nature Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Experience:

Teaching experience, in any capacity, preferred but not required. Volunteer work or prior experience working with children is highly desirable. Background knowledge of natural resources, environmental education, or biology is helpful.

General and specific responsibilities:

Summer Day Camp Counselors are responsible for co-teaching a group of approximately 10 - 16 students with prepared lessons every day, with some shared supervision of campers between and after activities, plus some general program materials upkeep. TNI emphasizes dynamic teaching methods, such as the use of ecological skits, effective props, and hands-on activities. Although lesson plans are provided, staff are encouraged to be creative and to develop additional lessons and activities. Must be able to instruct and implement an established creative nature/outdoor exploration program for children ages 3-14.

Duties will include:

• Supervision and safety of campers
• Daily chores
• Carrying out daily nature based programming and planning
• Managing children’s behavior
• Serving as positive role model
• Making sure everyone has FUN!

Growth and Development:

Counselors will report to and be evaluated by the Camp Director and Assistant Camp Director.

Apply online at https://tnidiscoverydaycampstaff.campbrainstaff.com/.

For more information contact:

The Nature Institute, 618-466-9930, www.TheNatureInstitute.org

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $14.50 - $17.00 per hour

Expected hours: 37.5 per week

Benefits:

• Employee discount

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Ability to Relocate:

• Godfrey, IL 62035: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person