Do you enjoy nature, being outdoors, and helping others learn about the fascinating world around us? Would you like your “office” to be a 60 acre working farm and a 3500 acre forest? We are looking for a Lead Camp Counselor to help lead, design, and plan nature-based educational experiences for summer campers.

Job Title: Lead Camp Counselor
Rate: $14-18 per hour, dependent on experience

Time Commitment: 

Training Dates: June 15th-18th

Camp Season Dates: June 22nd- August 10th, Monday-Fridays 8:30am-4:00pm

About Us
At Merck Forest and Farmland Center (MFFC), our Education Team ensures that everyone has access to enriching experiences that deepen their connection to the land. You will be a part of this fun and outgoing team that provides such experiences to our summer campers. 

About the role
As Lead Camp Counselor, you'll guide campers (with the help of an Assistant Counselor) through the summer camp experience and lead week-long camp sessions where campers can explore our farm and forest! From agriculture to forests to pond ecology, you'll plan and lead hands-on activities for campers ranging from ages 6-14 with support from our Senior Education Manager and Program Director. 

About you! If you have some of these characteristics we’d like to talk with you!

• You enjoy sharing your love of, and knowledge about the natural world with others.
• Comfortable interacting with nature and around our farm animals! (Horses, turkeys, sheep, goats, piglets, chickens, etc.)
• Flexible and adaptable (a sense of humor would be great!)
• Supportive and positive approach to guiding young learners.
• Wilderness First Aid and CPR/AED certification or Wilderness First Responder helpful. 
• One or more of the following describes you: 
• College student studying education or environmental studies
• Retired or part-time educator
• Have 2+ years of experience teaching children, preferably in outdoor settings

Some of your responsibilities:

• Attend training to help you build familiarity with our camp setting and give you the resources to lead an awesome camp experience (for you and the campers!)
• Direct and support assistant camp counselors, offering guidance and feedback.
• Ensure a fun and engaging experience for campers. 
• Contribute to creating a safe and positive camp culture that fosters teamwork and inclusivity.
• Lead, supervise, and organize group experiences (games, crafts, and other activities) for campers
• Assist in the clean-up of all activities and camp program areas, including respectful and careful use of all program facilities, materials, and buildings. 

Special skills:

• Ability to hike 2-3 miles and maintain a positive attitude in all types of weather!
• Ability to carry at least 15 lbs. 
• Ability to pass a background check.