What are the responsibilities and job description for the Science and Nature Specialist position at Cross Lanes YMCA Child Development Center?
Job Description: Science and Nature Specialist
Program: Summer Day Camp
Location: Cross Lanes YMCA Child Development Center
Position Type: Full-time, Seasonal (Summer)
Dates: May 27, 2025-August 8, 2025
Compensation: $13-$16/hour
Job Summary
As a Science and Nature Specialist, you will be responsible for developing and leading fun, engaging, and educational science and nature programs for children. You’ll have the opportunity to inspire young minds with hands-on experiments, nature walks, environmental awareness, and outdoor discovery. If you're passionate about the environment and science, and love working with children in a day camp setting, this is the perfect role for you!
Responsibilities
- Plan, lead, and participate in a variety of engaging science and nature-based activities and lessons for groups of children.
- Encourage campers to connect with nature, promote environmental awareness, and develop a lifelong love for science.
- Ensure the physical and emotional well-being of all campers by maintaining a safe and positive environment.
- Foster teamwork, creativity, and leadership skills through hands-on activities and group exercises.
- Collaborate with fellow staff to coordinate daily schedules, special events, and field trips.
- Lead nature walks, garden projects, and hands-on science experiments that align with the camp’s goals and weekly themes.
- Assist with camp events, activities, and field trips related to science and nature.
- Ensure that all materials and equipment are safe, organized, and ready for use.
- Promote environmental stewardship and encourage campers to become responsible caretakers of the natural world.
- Serve as a positive role model, demonstrating respect, teamwork, and leadership.
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized environment for all camp materials and supplies.
Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Must have at least a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Experience working with children, ideally in a camp or educational setting.
- Ability to design and lead engaging, hands-on science activities that are age-appropriate and enjoyable.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with children and fellow staff members.
- Enthusiastic, creative, and flexible, with the ability to adapt to the diverse needs of campers and changing environments.
- Passion for science, nature, and outdoor education.
- Current First Aid and CPR certification (or willingness to obtain certification prior to the start of camp).
- Background in education, environmental science, or a related field is preferred, but not required.
- Ability to pass all required background checks, including sex offender registry.
- Must provide a negative result from a TB test.
- Supply a recent health assessment signed by a licensed physician, performed within 90 days of the hire date.
- Possession of a valid driver’s license.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $13.00 - $16.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40 per week
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Day shift
- Monday to Friday
Ability to Commute:
- Charleston, WV 25313 (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $13 - $16
