POSITION TITLE: Eco-Camp Counselor

POSITION REPORTS TO: OEC Education Manager

LOCATION: Yellow Springs, Ohio

FLSA STATUS: Full-time, seasonal, exempt

COMPENSATION: $450 weekly, paid bi-weekly

START DATE: May 27, 2026

END DATE: August 7, 2026 

SCHEDULE: Monday-Friday

ORGANIZATION SUMMARY:

A 501c3 nonprofit organization, the Glen Helen Association works to steward and strengthen Glen Helen nature preserve for present and future generations, safeguard the ecological, historical, and geological resources within its bounds, and utilize the preserve to offer life-shaping environmental learning to our students and visitors. The 1,125-acre preserve is home to the first overnight environmental learning facility in the Midwest, Ohio’s original facility for education and rehabilitation of birds of prey, and a 15-mile trail system open to the public.

The Outdoor Education Center (OEC) welcomes all and fosters respect for the environment, provides science-based experiential learning, and supports character development through immersion in nature. The OEC runs three distinct programs: a Naturalist Teacher Internship, Outdoor School (an overnight, environmental science program during the school year), and Eco-Camp (a summer camp program). 

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Join our team of Eco-Camp Counselors for a fun and engaging community, interested in making a difference in the lives of children. Glen Helen Eco-Camp consists of week-long summer camps for children ages 5 to 15 years old. Each week, Eco-Camp Counselors are assigned up to 12 campers and are responsible for organizing and leading activities aligning with the camp theme. More information about our camp offering can be found on our website (glenhelen.org/ecocamp). Eco-Camp Counselors have full access to our staff support, facilities, and 1,000-acre nature preserve to develop camps they feel passionate about. This summer position will strengthen the Counselor’s ability to plan, teach, and lead others. Staff live on-site, within walking distance of the vibrant and artistic Village of Yellow Springs.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop plans that align with camp descriptions and implement a variety of age and ability appropriate outdoor activities
• Role model positive community engagement and environmentally conscious behaviors
• Monitor campers during their stay to ensure their safety and well-being using sound judgment and applying safety protocols 
• Complete daily and/or weekly overnight rotations in camp dormitories to provide supervision of overnight campers
• Assist in the maintenance of all program supplies, equipment, and facilities
• Comply with all Glen Helen Association policies and represent the OEC in a professional manner at all times
• Share in the general daily and weekly responsibilities at the OEC and participate in regular staff meetings
• Additional responsibilities, as required

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required:

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• Complete the mandatory pre Eco-Camp Counselor training. 
• Demonstrate a respect and affinity for children, a passion for the natural environment, and a commitment to equity and inclusion.
• Willing to live in community and work closely as a team.
• Pass criminal background check and fingerprinting to be completed during training.
• Completion of First Aid, CPR, and AED training prior to start of employment.
• Ability to stand for long periods of time and walk up to 5 miles a day on uneven terrain.
• Applicants must be able to commit to the full duration of the program.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS  

• BCI/FBI background check required (provided during training)
• First Aid/CPR/AED certified 

To qualify to be an Ecocamp Counselor, an individual must be able to perform each primary responsibility. The Glen Helen Outdoor Education Center aims to make reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform primary responsibilities. If you are interested in and passionate about our work, please do consider applying.

Compensation:

• $450 weekly, paid bi-weekly
• Ongoing training includes learning hike planning, leadership mentoring, time management, and age-appropriate group management techniques
• Housing (no fee): amenities include bedroom, bathroom, full kitchen, laundry, and wi-fi 
• 14 meals provided weekly, meeting dietary allergies and restrictions
• Complimentary membership at Antioch College Wellness Center