Nature Camp Specialist

Schaumburg Park District seeks a Nature Camp Specialist to design and lead nature-themed activities for children aged 5-13. Responsibilities include maintaining a safe camp environment, organizing supplies, and communicating with guardians. Applicants should have experience in outdoor program development, strong organizational skills, and a passion for working with youth. A degree in a related field and CPR/AED certification are preferred. This is a full-time position based in Schaumburg, IL.
The Schaumburg Park District is an award-winning parks and recreation agency that provides its 80,000 residents with a wide variety of recreational programs, classes, and events, as well as facilities, parks, and open spaces! Spring Valley features 135 acres of prairie, woodlands, and wetlands, three miles of walking trails, a nature center, an 1880s living history farm and Bison’s Bluff Nature Playground.

JOB SUMMARY: Under the supervision of the Supervisor of Environmental Education the Nature Camp Specialist design and leads nature-themed for school-aged children, ages 5-13 years. They will be responsible for leading daily educational and hands-on activities, while maintaining the interest of their campers throughout the week. They will maintain a commitment to operating a safe and effective camp program, communicating effectively with guardians before, during, and after camp on an as needed basis. They will set up and clean up their camp space each day, ensuring cleanliness at the end of the day for other activities taking place in the facility. They will help keep camp supplies organized and communicate with supervisor when supplies are needed. They will attend all trainings pertaining to their job. They will also handle all other duties as directed by supervisor.

QUALIFICATIONS: The best applicants will possess maturity, enthusiasm for working with youth, high energy, resourcefulness, and good organizational skills. They should possess or be working towards a B.A or its equivalent in Outdoor Education, Outdoor Recreation, Elementary Education, Natural Sciences, or a related field. They will have at least 1 full year of experience with outdoor program development and presentation. They will demonstrate regular and reliable attendance, as well as present themselves as a positive role model. They will have excellent oral and written communication skills, as well as strong organizational skills. They will have the ability and flexibility to adapt their camp as needed to meet the needs of a group, or due to changing weather conditions. They will be able to perform their job duties out-of-doors in all types of weather. They will be able to work both independently, as well as in a team. Having a flexible working schedule is preferred. Having knowledge and understanding of Illinois plants and wildlife is a plus. Possession of CPR/AED certification is required; training is provided if not certified.

Tagged as: Outdoor Education