We are hiring for naturalist positions that start in January, 2022!
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
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!