Do you want to make a difference in the world, and in the lives of kids? Are you an amazing leader and educator? Do you have a fascination with the natural world? Are you excited to help kids to Connect, Explore, and Grow? Come teach hands-on marine science and forest ecology on the central California coast at Camp Ocean Pines!

We encourage applicants of different backgrounds, cultures, genders, experiences, abilities, and perspectives to apply as we are actively working to increase the diversity of experience and perspectives on our team. No one comes with the entire complement of skills, so please don’t let a lack of experience/skill in one specific area deter you from applying.

POSITION PURPOSE

A Naturalist serves as the primary outdoor science educator to visiting 4th-12th grade students in a residential camp setting. This includes being responsible for activity groups, developing and leading culturally relevant curricula, supervising mealtimes, and leading camp activities. This position is full-time and seasonal with hours scheduled according to group attendance and assigned duties.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Must be able to perform the following functions unaided or with the assistance of a reasonable accommodation:

  • Teach groups of typically 10-15 students during each day about environmental sciences relative to the local region

  • Teach daytime lessons and evening programs of up to 100 students per week

  • Develop lessons that incorporate fun, engaging activities demonstrating ecological concepts, natural history, group and self-esteem building, and development of leadership skills. Strategies include hands-on explorations, dramatics, nature games, art, music, and creative writing.

  • Supervise typically 2-4 meals per week when schools are present

  • Lead offsite trips including tide-pooling, hikes, kayaking, and beach walks

  • Sing songs and perform skits

  • Facilitate low ropes and team building activities

  • Lead target sports activities (archery and tomahawk throwing)

  • Handle/care for live specimens including non-venomous snakes, lizards, and birds of prey

  • Paddle a kayak long distances in ocean conditions

  • Lead students on hikes over rough terrain in a variety of weather conditions

  • Other duties as assigned by Camp Ocean Pines

OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Consistently provide friendly courteous assistance, including building and maintaining healthy professional relationships with students, teachers, staff, and guests

  • Support and contribute to a safe, clean environment for all guests and staff

  • This job description is subject to change at any time

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Required:

  • Experience in outdoor education, classroom teaching, and/or engaging low-income and students of color

  • Current First Aid/CPR certification prior to start date

  • Current CA Food Handlers certificate prior to start date

  • Successfully complete a background check and LiveScan fingerprinting

  • Excellent oral communication skills

  • Maintain a positive attitude in complex situations after working long hours

  • Comfortable giving and receiving feedback

  • Adjust quickly to changes with open mind and flexibility

  • Recognize and respond to emergency situations

  • Proficiency with computer and typing

Preferred:

  • Bachelor’s degree in science, experiential education, or equivalent

  • Experience in trauma-informed, culturally relevant, and culturally responsive teaching

  • Valid US driver's license

  • Lifeguard certification

  • Conversational or better skill in a language other than English (especially Spanish)

  • Raptor handling experience

  • One or more seasons of experience working with a residential outdoor education program

PERFORMANCE EVALUATION

Job performance will be evaluated throughout the season, both formally and informally, by the program director

Photo by Rose Hollingsworth

Photo by Rose Hollingsworth

COMPENSATION

Naturalist wages start at $16/hour, and qualify for over-time. Housing is provided in lodge bedrooms onsite (shared with 1-3 other staff) throughout the entire season. Meals are provided when schools are onsite and may be available during weekend rental groups. When groups are not onsite, staff will have access to leftovers and use of the kitchen facilities.

HOW TO APPLY

Applications will be reviewed as they come in and preference will be given to earlier submissions.

To apply, please follow these steps:

1. Submit an online application HERE.

2. Email the following to outdooreducation@campoceanpines.org:

  • Current resume

  • Contact information for three references (phone numbers & email addresses)

  • Letter of interest describing who you are and why you’d like to be a naturalist at Camp Ocean Pines

If you have any questions about the application process, email outdooreducation@campoceanpines.org. Good luck!