Field Explorers Camp Teaching Instructor

Our Mission: Since the 1893 World Columbian Exposition, our organization has aimed to connect people to the natural environment and human history.

The Field Explorers Camp Instructor is a term position on the Family Programs Team within the Sue Ling Gin Center for Education and Public Programs of the Field Museum. Camp programs invite learners ages 5-14 to engage with the unique resources of the Field Museum—research, collections, expeditions, expertise, and stories—with scaffolded curricula tailored for Grades K-8. Staff will work 35 hours a week, Monday through Friday, 8am - 3:30pm, with a 30-minute unpaid lunch break.

Field Explorers Instructors are responsible for enacting written camp curricula and making suggestions for activities based on their knowledge and experience. This position is responsible for managing a group of up to 24 campers, ensuring their safety throughout the camp session and facilitating an exciting summer learning experience. Instructors are scheduled for specific camps based on their age-group experience and preference and their content background. This position will report directly to the Manager of Camp Programs and will lead a teaching team that includes two Teaching Assistants during each camp session.

The Field Explorers Instructor position is a full-time, term position, beginning with mandatory orientations in June (dates TBD) and ending the final day of camp on August 15. There will be paid time for Instructors to review curriculum and ask questions prior to the start of camp.

Field Explorers Camp runs a total of seven weeks over the course of the summer. There is no camp during the weeks of June 30-July 4 and July 28-August 1, and Instructors will not be expected to work those weeks. The camp schedule is as follows:

Duties will include:

• Lead the teaching team in curriculum implementation while maintaining a safe, respectful, and responsive camp experience for all campers and staff.

• Successfully utilize group management techniques to navigate up to 24 campers through the museum, activities, and free time.

• Challenge and support campers while utilising consistent and respectful classroom management practices.

• Facilitate a collaborative and communicative dynamic with two Teaching Assistants.

• Through discussion with fellow team members, foster an environment that supports discussions of team and camper needs.

• Be comfortable with the curriculum, allowing for adaptation in the moment while keeping focused on key tasks and takeaways.

• Maintain open lines of communication with caregivers as needed.

• Collaborate with the Manager of Camp Programs, Teaching Assistants, and fellow camp staff in preparation for program implementation.

• Meet with the Manager of Camp Programs to review, clarify, and adjust any activities, schedules, or logistics outlined in the curriculum.

• Other duties as assigned

Requirements:

• Candidates must be able to attend mandatory onboarding and training sessions (dates TBD) and work the duration of the camp season, which runs from June 16 - August 15. Alternative onboarding timelines may be possible for candidates that are unable to work camp by the June 16th start due to school schedules. Availability will be discussed during the hiring process.

• This position requires a lot of physical activity, including long periods of walking or standing, and the ability to move at least 20 pounds of equipment.

• Candidates must be able to implement the program on-site, in person.

• Candidates must maintain a thorough knowledge of safety protocols and program policies to ensure a safe learning environment for all.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Classroom management experience or similar skills with youth groups required

• Prior experience and background with learners of varied needs and backgrounds are encouraged to apply

• Passion for and experience with informal education strategies and best practices in science learning

• Commitment to learning from individuals of varied viewpoints, prior experiences, positions, and expertise

• Familiarity with natural history content and Field Museum spaces is a plus

• Experience developing curriculum for children ages 5-14 a plus

Education and Experience:

• B.A. or B.S. in Education, Museum Studies, or related science field or 3 years of equivalent work experience in the areas above

• Background in child development, pedagogy, and developmentally appropriate practice

• Demonstrates strong group management experience

• Bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply

• Preferred: CPR/First Aid Certified, Mandatory Reporter Certification

Compensation: $22 / hour

The Field Museum is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination, embracing diversity, and fostering mutual respect. We value the unique perspectives each team member brings, which empowers our ability to innovate and overcome challenges.

At the Field Museum, we are dedicated to making our career website and recruitment process accessible to everyone. If you encounter any difficulty when using or accessing our online application, or if you need a reasonable accommodation for completing your application, participating in interviews, or any other part of the selection process, please reach out to us at recruitment@fieldmuseum.org.

Salary : $22