Assistant Summer Camp Counselor

Putnam Northern Westchester BOCES and the Center for Environmental Education (CEE) are seeking enthusiastic and responsible Assistant Summer Camp Counselors to support our Lead Counselors in delivering an engaging, hands-on, and fun-filled environmental day camp experience.

This position supports our Young Naturalists Environmental Day Camp serving students in grades K–8 (campers are grouped by age). Assistant Counselors help create a safe, welcoming environment where children explore nature, build friendships, and develop a deeper appreciation for the outdoors.

This is an excellent opportunity for high school and college students interested in education, environmental science, child development, recreation, or leadership experience.

Responsibilities:

Assistant Counselors work closely with Lead Counselors to:

• Support outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife observation, water exploration, nature crafts, team-building games, and environmental lessons
• Help supervise campers throughout the full camp day (activities, transitions, lunch, water play, etc.)
• Assist with setup and cleanup of materials and activity spaces
• Support positive behavior management and reinforce camp expectations
• Help maintain a safe and inclusive camp environment
• Model enthusiasm, responsibility, and respect for nature
• Assist with educational animal ambassador activities (as appropriate and trained)
• Participate in staff meetings and training sessions

Camp runs Monday–Friday from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM.

Qualifications:

We are looking for individuals who:

• Have a strong interest in working with children
• Enjoy the outdoors and environmental learning
• Are responsible, dependable, and positive role models
• Work well as part of a team
• Communicate effectively with children and peers
• Can remain flexible and calm in a fast-paced environment

Preferred but not required:

Experience working with children in camp, school, or recreational settings

Previous Counselor-in-Training experience (especially with Young Naturalists Camp)

Comfort interacting safely with animals and wildlife

NOTE: All counselors must have a NYS fingerprint clearance registered through the NYS TEACH system. This is not required before interviewing but is required before you can be hired.

Characteristics Desired:

• Enthusiasm for nature, conservation, and outdoor exploration
• Patience and strong interpersonal skills
• Initiative and willingness to learn
• Commitment to at least two continuous weeks of camp (longer availability preferred)
• Interest in building leadership and workplace skills

Compensation and Schedule:

• Temporary, seasonal summer position
• Competitive hourly compensation
• Camp season: July 1 – August 10
• Workday: 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM

Application Instructions:

Interested applicants should submit a brief letter of interest to:

Annie Pace, Program Coordinator, [email protected].

Applications for this seasonal position will be reviewed on a rolling basis until positions are filled.

We look forward to hearing from individuals who are excited to support the next generation of environmental stewards and create a memorable, educational experience for our young campers!

Pay: $17.00 per hour

Work Location: In person