Summer Day Camp Instructor

Job Summary

This is a seasonal, 9-week role, beginning June 9, 2025 and ending August 22, 2025. A cover letter of interest and a current professional resume are required. Please do not use the really resume to apply. Applications without both will not be considered.

Squam Lakes Natural Science Center seeks a creative and enthusiastic candidate to serve as Guided Discoveries/Day Camp Instructor for our dynamic, 8-week summer day camp program. Science Center nature day camps encourage discovery, learning, and outdoor play in and about the natural world for kids ages 5 through 13. Our camps are active and emphasize time spent outdoors. The Guided Discoveries Instructor works under the direction of the Guided Discoveries Coordinator and co-teaches week-long camp sessions with them or with another education staff member. The Instructor is responsible for planning and leading educational activities and performing other tasks that support the safety and success of the program.

As a Guided Discoveries/Day Camp Instructor, you will play a pivotal role in providing children with a safe, fun, and educational environment. You will engage day campers in various activities while fostering personal growth and teamwork. This position is ideal for individuals passionate about working with children and who have skills in education, environmental science, or related fields.

Role & Responsibilities

• Plan and lead innovative, engaging, and age-appropriate activities for nature—and science-themed camps targeted at youth ages 5 through 13.
• Develop or update weekly lesson plans.
• Provide high-quality customer service to campers and parents.
• Model respectful, positive, and considerate personal interactions through reinforcing, reminding, and redirecting negative camper behaviors to provide a positive experience for all campers.
• Create engaging displays in the Guided Discoveries Classroom to provide a welcoming environment for campers and parents.
• Care for, maintain, and develop high-quality program supplies and equipment.
• Maintain cleanliness and safety of all program and office spaces.
• Ensure the site's safety, activities, and participants; report any accidents, injuries, and safety concerns to the Education Director.
• Other duties as assigned.
• Supervise and ensure the safety of campers during all activities.
• Plan and implement engaging educational and recreational programs.
• Assist with behavior management to promote a positive camp environment.

Education

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must pass a background check to interact with children successfully.
• A high school diploma or equivalency is required.
• Bachelor’s Degree with a major in the natural sciences, environmental education, natural resources interpretation, or a related field, or comparable relevant experience, is preferred.
• Current progress towards obtaining a degree or continuing education is appreciated.

Knowledge and Skills

• Prior experience teaching in a nature-based or recreational camp setting with youth ages 5-13.
• Knowledge of New Hampshire’s natural history.
• Demonstrated public speaking skills and ability to communicate with diverse audiences effectively.
• Positive and enthusiastic attitude.
• Motivation, a willingness to learn, and a desire to work with youth and animals.
• Current certification, or willing to obtain, Adult and Child CPR/First Aid with AED. The Science Center pays for training and certification.
• Able to receive a clean criminal background check before hire (as required by NH state law when working with youth).
• Ability to work well independently and as part of a team.
• Certified Interpretive Guide through the National Association for Interpretation is preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to read, write, and communicate verbally on the phone, in person, and online.
• Sitting or standing: Remaining seated or standing for long periods.
• Walking: Moving around the office to access files, printers, etc.
• Using hands and fingers: Handling or feeling objects, keyboard, phone, and printer controls.
• Operating a computer: Constantly using a computer and other office equipment.
• Lifting or carrying: May need to lift to 15-20 pounds; set up & break-down special events.
• Pushing, pulling, or reaching: Moving objects, or pushing them away, reaching overhead.

Temporary Housing Assistance

• One-bedroom Cottage - $750/month single occupancy
• Private room/bathroom with shared kitchen/common space - $500/month
• Housing is located two miles from the Science Center
• The cottage and room are located on a property with other units occupied by employees of local nonprofits.
• The property includes amenities like pickleball courts, an outdoor fire pit, and lake access.
• Rent includes utilities and internet.
• Transportation is required to get to work, and amenities such as grocery stores, as there is no public transportation.
• We do not assist with relocation expenses.

Join us this summer as a Guided Discoveries/ Day Camp Instructor, where you can make a lasting impact on the lives of young day campers while developing your own skills in a supportive environment!

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $16.50 - $17.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

Salary : $17 - $17