Specialty Counselor, Nature/STEM - Club (Youth & Family Programs)/Seasonal Employment

Chautauqua’s Boys and Girls Club is the longest running summer day camp in the United States.  The program, for youth in second grade to tenth grade, embraces both tradition and the latest trends in youth education and engagement including field activities, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, sailing, nature, crafts, individual and team sports, music and experiences in the arts.  The program hours are 9 a.m.–12 p.m. and 2–4 p.m., Monday-Friday.

About Your Compensation  

Compensation for this position starts at $17.00 and, with demonstrated experience and qualifications, candidates may earn up to $17.75. 

About Your Work Day 

• Create a safe, welcoming environment in which all program participants, staff members, and families can fully participate. 
• Plan and facilitate daily activities for campers across all age groups. Activities may include games that help campers identify and categorize plants and animals; locate and identify fossils in the nearby creek, ravine, and woods; identify factors and activities that contribute to air and water pollution; etc.
• Provide guidance to group counselors regarding expectations for assisting with programming in specialized areas. 
• Maintain supply inventory and work with supervisor to place orders as necessary. 
• Ensure all equipment is in safe, working order. 
• Understand and comply with policies and procedures set forth by Chautauqua Institution and regulations determined by New York State legislation as related to operating a licensed children’s camp. 
• Work with various departments at Chautauqua (Performing and Visual Arts, Recreation) to provide unique programming opportunities. 

About the Referral Program

Chautauqua Institution’s Referral Bonus Program is a talent solution to recruit, develop, and retain a diverse workforce that encompasses all the skills and experience necessary to deliver on our goals and objectives. Chautauqua Institution will provide a $500 referral bonus (less taxes) for active employees referring a new candidate who is hired and remains employed for at least 90-days from the first physical date of work. In the case of seasonal positions working less than 6-months, the new candidate must remain actively employed for at least 30-days from the first physical date of work and until the closing date of the season. The closing date of the season is the last Sunday in August.

About Your Schedule 

Chautauqua Institution and Chautauqua Hotel Company offer flexible schedules, full and part-time, for seasonal employment during summer operations starting annually each June and concluding in August.  Seasonal employment may be available earlier (pre-season) and beyond season (post-season) based on business needs and candidate availability.  Schedules typically include evenings, weekends, and/or holidays as a requirement. 

While you will confirm your final schedule with management at the time of an interview and offer of employment, you should generally anticipate the following schedule options for this position: 

Will be primarily scheduled to work Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. for an average of 30 hours/week.  Scheduled hours will include evenings, weekends, and holidays based on business needs.

The week before the first day of operations a mandatory in-person three-day staff training session is scheduled.  Virtual trainings may be held prior to the season.

About Living on the Grounds 

Chautauqua Institution may provide limited housing options on our grounds or assist you with locating nearby housing arrangements for select opportunities based on business needs.  Housing is not an option for many positions and may be of a cost to you.  Candidates should assume there are no employer-provided or employer-assisted housing options available for this position unless it is otherwise stated.   

Employer-provided housing may be provided.

There may be an opportunity to work additional hours in Youth & Family Programs outside of this position.  This will be discussed during the interview.

About Chautauqua Institution

Chautauqua Institution is a not-for-profit global convener of dialogue on the most significant issues of the day through engagement across four pillars of the arts, education, religion, and recreation. The Chautauqua community is located on the shores of Chautauqua Lake in southwestern New York State and comes alive each summer with a unique mix of visual and performing arts, lectures, interfaith worship/programs, and recreational activities.  Chautauqua Institution owns and operates Chautauqua Hotel Company, a comprehensive hotel, food & beverage, conferencing, and events organization.  The Institution’s office in Washington, DC is located strategically for an ongoing role in the cultural conversations of the nation.

Discovering Your Chautauqua Experience

There are countless ways that our talent will engage with our mission, vision, and diverse communities, and you are invited to immerse yourself in our programming as a gateway to this experience.  Employees will receive a traditional Chautauqua gate pass, free of cost, which provides access to many of our programs at the Amphitheater.  

Our Commitment to IDEA

Chautauqua Institution values Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) as a priority in our strategic plan, 150 Forward. One of our five core values is “The dignity and contributions of all people.”  We are committed to creating conditions where everyone can engage as complete and valued participants in the Chautauqua experience.  The Institution is an equal-opportunity employer committed to equitable and inclusive hiring practices.  Applicants and employees will not be discriminated against based on any status protected under federal, state, or local law. We especially welcome applications from those who can demonstrate experience, engagement, and professional expertise in IDEA. 

Joining Our Talent Community

Join our talent community online at CHQ.org/employment.  You are encouraged to learn more about Chautauqua Institution at CHQ.org and view the 150 Forward Strategic Plan at 150fwd.CHQ.org.

Salary : $17 - $18