Lead Summer Camp Counselor / Recreational Specialist

Seasonal Position (Approx. 6 Weeks) | June–August
Daily Hours: 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM

Putnam Northern Westchester BOCES is seeking a dynamic and experienced Lead Summer Camp Counselor / Recreational Specialist to support the Young Naturalists Environmental Day Camp at the Center for Environmental Education.

This leadership role is ideal for individuals passionate about environmental education, outdoor learning, and youth development. The Lead Counselor works alongside full-time naturalists and seasonal staff to deliver safe, hands-on, and engaging outdoor programming for campers in grades K–2 and/or 3–5.

The Lead Summer Camp Counselor is responsible for facilitating and adapting an exciting, educational, and FUN outdoor camp experience focused on:

• Nature exploration
• Conservation and environmental science
• Field investigations and hands-on learning
• Team-building and outdoor recreation

This role includes direct camper supervision, staff leadership, activity planning, and daily operational oversight.

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

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and supervise campers in a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, wildlife observation, nature crafts, team-building exercises, and environmental education lessons.
• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the summer camp, ensuring the safety and well-being of all campers.
• Assist in the design and implementation of age-appropriate educational programs focusing on nature, conservation, and environmental science.
• Collaborate with seasonal counselors to create a positive, engaging, and inclusive camp environment for all campers.
• Serve as a point of contact for campers, parents, and staff, maintaining open and effective communication throughout the camp season.
• Assist with camp logistics, including daily schedules, activity planning, and camp material preparation.
• Handling CEE’s animal ambassadors and ensuring that all interactions with animals are safe and educational for campers.
• Provide leadership and guidance to seasonal counselors, helping them to manage camper behavior and resolve any issues that arise during the camp day.
• Facilitate teamwork and communication among staff, ensuring that all camp activities run smoothly and efficiently.
• Contribute to the development of new programs and activities that enhance the summer camp experience.
• Maintain a positive and safe camp atmosphere, ensuring all camp policies and procedures are followed.

Qualifications:

Required:

• Strong knowledge of environmental science, conservation, and outdoor activities.
• Experience leading and supervising groups of children, with a focus on safety and engagement.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team and take initiative when necessary.
• Passion for nature and environmental education, with the ability to inspire and engage campers in learning about the natural world.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Interest in working with or alongside animals, including reptiles, birds, and mammals, in a safe and educational manner.

Preferred but not required:

• Bachelor’s degree (awarded or in progress) or significant course work in Environmental Science, Education, Biology, Ecology, or a related field OR 2 years as an environmental / outdoor educator.
• CPR and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain prior to start)
• Wilderness First Responder certification
• Experience working with live educational animals
• Familiarity with local ecosystems and native species

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.

Ideal Candidate

We are seeking someone who:

• Is enthusiastic about outdoor recreation and environmental learning
• Demonstrates strong leadership and team-building skills
• Remains calm, flexible, and solution-oriented
• Takes initiative while collaborating effectively with others
• Is committed to the full camp season, including required pre-camp training
• Has familiarity with local ecosystems or strong interest in gaining familiarity

Compensation and Schedule:

• Temporary, seasonal summer position
• Competitive hourly compensation
• Camp season: June 26 – 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 candidates who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of young campers and in the preservation of our natural world.

Pay: $23.45 - $26.65 per hour

Work Location: In person