About the Natural Resource Education Foundation

The Natural Resource Education Foundation (NREF) of New Jersey is an environmental education non-profit, 501(c)(3) corporation. Founded in 1976, we are dedicated to habitat conservation and fostering environmental stewardship through immersive learning experiences. Our goal is to engage with people of all ages to learn and interact with the natural environment thus encouraging the protection, enhancement and resilience of these natural resources long into the future for generations to come.

NREF operates the Lighthouse Center for Natural Resource Education, located within the Upper Barnegat Bay Wildlife Management Area in Waretown, New Jersey, under a lease agreement with New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife. There, we undertake coastal habitat restoration projects, maintain hiking trails on the property, and host hands-on educational programming run by our own organization or through other educational institutions and conservation organizations.

Location
Lighthouse Center for Natural Resource Education - 140 Camp Lighthouse Road, Waretown, NJ 08758

Position Summary

The Natural Resource Education Foundation is looking for experienced and enthusiastic individuals to help run our Nature Discovery Camp in Summer 2026! Nature Discovery Camp is an environmental education day camp program that aims to foster a positive relationship between children and the natural world. Each week of camp explores a different environmental topic, making every week unique for campers. Each week involves nature hikes, musical activities, arts and crafts, outdoor and indoor games, and much more, with activities tailored to the developmental needs of each age group.

Camp counselors will provide programming focusing on ecology and natural history to campers ranging from ages five to twelve years old. This position is ideal for those passionate about nature and environmental education and involves working with children in an outdoor setting.

Responsibilities

• Conduct engaging lessons and activities on topics related to ecology and conservation for campers between the ages of 5-12 years.
• Work closely with NREF board members in the development of educational materials and lesson plans.
• Ensure the safety and well-being of campers throughout the program.
• Lead nature exploration walks and other outdoor activities. 

Qualifications and Experience

Required:

• Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
• Experience working with children.
• A demonstrable understanding of child development and age-appropriate instruction.
• Strong communication and leadership skills, especially in group settings.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Familiarity with outdoor recreation and natural sciences.

Preferred but not required:

• B.A. or B.S., or current student, in environmental science, biology, education, or related field.
• Previous experience as an educator or in environmental science related fields.
• Experience communicating science topics to children ages 5-8 or 9-12.
• Current First Aid and CPR certifications preferred (on-site First Aid & CPR training will be provided by NREF for those who do not currently hold valid certifications).

Background Clearances: NREF conducts thorough background checks, including a review of criminal history and sex offender registry checks, as part of the onboarding process for all positions. Candidates must successfully pass all required background checks before their start date.

Dates of Employment: Monday through Friday, 8:30 - 4:30 PM, June 22 - August 21. Three days of mandatory staff orientation and training will be held in late May/early June.

Compensation: $18.00/hr - $21.00/hr, commensurate with experience. Counselors are required to commit to all nine weeks of camp, plus three days of orientation and training. Note: Housing can be provided if necessary.