Discovery Overnight Camp Lead

Job Details

Job Title: Discovery Overnight Camp Lead

Compensation: $800 per week base rate, $880 per week for Spanish speakers

Housing: Yes

Exemption Status: Exempt

Employee Classification: Temporary, Full-time

Dates of Employment: May 19, 2025 - August 16, 2025

Reporting to: Overnight Camp Manager

Direct Reports: Supervision of Discovery Overnight Camp Counselors

Position Summary:

As a Discovery Overnight Camp Lead at Keystone Science School, you will play a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of our Overnight Discovery Camp, which serves up to 90 campers per session. Your primary responsibilities will include managing logistics such as scheduling, trail group assignments, and coordinating with external partners. You will also facilitate camp activities, oversee meal setups and evening programs, and support counselors in creating a safe and engaging environment for campers.

Beyond logistics, you will contribute to lesson planning, curriculum development, and staff mentoring. This role requires strong leadership, adaptability, and a passion for youth development. This role is well-suited for someone who enjoys working in a dynamic outdoor environment and is committed to supporting both campers and staff.

The wage for this position is $800 weekly with a 10% increase for those fluent in English and Spanish.

Key Responsibilities:

Program Development & Implementation

• Collaborate with the Discovery Overnight Camp Lead, Day Camp Leads, and Camp Managers to develop and prepare program curriculum and materials.
• Maintain quality programming by managing logistics and ensuring smooth implementation.
• Ensure varied and creative programming to engage campers effectively.

Staff Support & Training

• Mentor, support, and motivate Discovery program counselors.
• Train counselors on daily camp procedures during staff training workshops.
• Help implement feedback and coaching systems for staff.
• Lead and/or support training sessions and meetings.

Camper Safety & Risk Management

• Supervise and maintain high standards of health and safety, following risk management policies in all activities.
• Oversee staff preparation for overnight camping trips, including trip itineraries, gear, and risk management procedures.

Logistics & Operations

• Assist with logistical and operational tasks such as paperwork, check-in, creating weekly program schedules, and program evaluations.
• Communicate with KSS kitchen staff to plan overnight camp meals and food for camping trips.
• Assist with check-in and check-out procedures, including facility cleanup.

Additional Responsibilities

• Candidates age 20 with at least four years of driving experience must participate in and pass Van Driver Training and may be required to drive a 15-passenger van.
• Abide by and uphold the policies and procedures set forth by KSS.
• Perform other duties as assigned

Skills 

• Have an interest in, respect for, and ability to work with people with diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to create an inclusive learning environment for campers from a wide range of backgrounds.
• Experience with risk management practices of the outdoor and environmental education industry.
• Ability to be creative, adaptable, and flexible while managing children in a variety of situations.
• Experience leading employees and managing administrative tasks in a professional environment.
• Outdoor recreation experience in hiking, camping, backpacking or rock climbing.
• Knowledge of science based curriculum (e.g. forest ecology, geology, biology).
• Desire to contribute positively to the KSS at-large community.

Education, Experience and Certifications

• 460 hours of experience working with school- age children (verification of hours required).
• Current Wilderness First Aid (WFA) and CPR certifications, from an approved vendor, or the ability to obtain before the first day of employment (KSS does offer an on-site WFA course before staff training in May at the expense of the individual).
• Be over the age of 18 by the start date of employment.
• Preferred - Age 20 with an excellent driving record and a valid driver’s license.

Physical Requirements 

• Able to work a majority of the time outside at high altitude in varying conditions including uneven and slick terrain and unpredictable weather and situations. 
• Physically able to assist participants with recreation equipment during activities.
• Able to lift a minimum of 75 lbs. with assistance.
• Dexterity, auditory and visual acuity to operate computers and phones or mobile devices.
• Auditory and visual acuity to interact with guests, students, clients on a daily basis.
• Able to successfully manage multiple, high priority tasks in a fast-paced and often times crowded and noisy environment.

Keystone Science School: Who We Are

Keystone Science School (KSS) ignites curiosity and critical thinking through hands-on, nature-based learning. Nestled at 9,200 feet in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, our 23-acre campus serves as a hub for immersive, inquiry-driven experiences. Since 1976, we have combined outdoor adventure with STEM education, empowering students, teachers, and communities. Our programs—including summer camps, school-based learning, and outdoor education—promote scientific exploration, leadership, and environmental stewardship. With log-style dorms, a dining hall, an outdoor amphitheater, and an observatory, KSS provides an inspiring setting for discovery.

Benefits for Seasonal Staff 

At KSS, our staff are essential to our mission. We are proud to offer rewarding benefits including professional development opportunities and those listed below. 

• Free meals and housing maybe provided depending on position.
• Up to 32 paid sick hours. 
• Paid holidays.
• Access to medical, dental, and vision benefits after four months of employment.
• Eligibility for a 401K after 1,000 hours worked annually.
• Sick time, EAP (Employee Assistance Program), and FAMLI (Family and Medical Leave Insurance) are offered.
• Discounts to outdoor retailers and discounted ski pass opportunities.

Work Schedule and Environment

This position primarily operates in a high-altitude outdoor environment. Discovery Overnight Camp runs six days a week, from Monday through Saturday, with Sundays off. Programming occurs both on-campus and in remote off-site locations. Employees will work closely with teammates and campers in this highly collaborative role.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Keystone Science School is committed to building a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community, and we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most talented people from a wide variety of backgrounds. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type, without regard to race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, age, religion, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.