Explore the outdoor education world in beautiful California as a Science Camp Instructor!

Green Valley Lake, CA in the heart of Southern California

SeasonalStarts on: Jul 04, 2025Cabin Instructors

Emerald Cove Outdoor Science (ECOS) Institute

LocationGreen Valley Lake, CaliforniaWages/Pay$145.00 - $150.00 / day

Experience Level: 1 year or more working with children in a professional setting

Job Starts: Sep 15, 2025

September 15, 2025 - May 29, 2026

Do you love science and feel passionate excited teaching the next generation? Do you love being outdoors, experiencing nature in real time? Are you looking for a unique experience in which to grow your personal and professional skills? If you answered yes to any of these questions,  we encourage you to apply for a Cabin Instructor position at ECOS!

ROLE

To provide direction, guidance, and monitor the activities and safety of students during their participation in a residential Outdoor Science Institute (OSI) at multiple sites in the San Bernardino Mountains. Provide instruction regarding the natural sciences, through nature hikes, lessons, and activities, perform related duties as assigned, and clean camp facilities. This job requires evening shifts and staying overnight in cabins supervising students ages 10-12 from Monday to Friday. Limited staff housing available based on program needs.

BENEFITS

• All meals provided at camp while working with kids
• Sick time is accrued to a maximum of 5 days

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Instructors report directly to the program director or an assistant director when the program director is off-site. Lead Instructors provide guidance and direction to instructors. Instructors directly supervise students.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to hike 5 miles at high elevation for more than 2 hours at a time and stand for long periods in snow, ice, and rain. Ability to lift 25 pounds from ground level. Must be able to work on site for 24 hour shifts for 5 days consecutively. Must have licensed physician sign off on physical exam that the above can be done & provide a negative TB test before starting work.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Supervise a group of 12-18 students (cabin group) at a residential camp setting for 3-5 days at a time.
• Enforce discipline and safety standards.
• Direct and supervise students during dining time, bedtime, cabin cleanup and other group living activities.
• Communicate directions clearly to students.
• Counsel and empathize with students that are “missing home”.
• Act as a role model for the students while away from parents and school.
• Monitor student cabin during the night. Respond to emergency situations which may arise.
• Instruct and teach students on nature trails and hikes; educate students about basic concepts of geology, ecology, wildlife biology, astronomy, conservation and survival with hands on activities; cover required outdoor science curriculum during allotted time.
• Lead large and small group activities.
• Plan, organize and lead craft and recreational activities.
• Lead songs and games.
• Anticipate and take measures to avoid potential safety hazards and health needs; administer First Aid and CPR to students when needed; care for students that are sick or refer to on-site Health Care Center.
• Direct and lead entertainment in evenings; assist students in creating skits and songs; encourage student creativity and involvement.
• Assist in maintaining a clean and orderly learning environment to ensure the health and safety of students; assist in cleaning and straightening the cabin, site, and dining areas.
• Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

• Natural science subject matter, including geology, ecology, wildlife biology, astronomy, conservation.
• Methods, practices and techniques of science instruction through specialized outdoor lesson plans, projects, hikes and instructional materials.
• Methods and practices of child instruction and tutoring.
• Correct English usage, including spelling, grammar and punctuation.
• First Aid and either CPR or BLS certificate.

Ability to:

• Supervise, instruct and engage students in positive learning, in a residential outdoor field setting.
• Carefully monitor the activities of students to ensure their safety and well-being.
• Present material to students in an innovative, imaginative and creative manner.
• Organize, set priorities and exercise sound judgment within areas of responsibility.
• Organize and maintain confidential student records and files.
• Communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Understand and follow written and oral instructions.
• Deal with sensitive and difficult situations.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with fellow Instructors, executive directors, program director, staff of visiting school districts, parents, students, site staff and others encountered in the course of work.
• Must demonstrate attendance sufficient to complete duties of the position as required.

Education, Training, and Experience:

One year of experience working with children in an organized outdoor camp setting or supervising school age children; and completion of one year of study at a college or university.

Licenses; Certificates; Special Requirements (Can Be Completed During Onboarding After Hiring):

Obtain valid CPR and First Aid certifications. Current TB Test and physical. Clear criminal history and CA LiveScan Background Check.

Become an ECOS Instructor

Apply Now

Contact Info

• ECOS Institute
• hr@ecosinstitute.com
• ecosinstitute.com