Summer Camp Counselor Naturalist

Cal-Wood is a 1,200 acre scenic mountain setting 15 miles northwest of Boulder.  We are a non-profit bringing kids and families together with nature driven by outstanding environmental education programming. This summer, Cal-Wood is providing 5 weeks of science programs for high school students and 4 weeks of programs for elementary and middle school kids. We are looking to hire responsible Summer Camp Counselor Naturalists who are excited to work with kids ages 9-17 while living and working in a beautiful mountain setting! 

Summer Camp Counselor Naturalists (SCCN) will have an exceptionally unique opportunity to provide our campers with a fun, safe, and unforgettable experience in our 1,200 acre classroom. As an SCCN, you will be responsible for the needs of a group of campers during the day and in the cabins in the evenings. This includes campers’ social, physical, medical, and emotional needs. You will set a good example for behavior and attitude for your campers. You will be camping in a cabin for four (4) weeks. Instructors may also spend one or more nights a week camping in a tent (your own or one provided by Cal-Wood) as a part of our “campout night” during some of our camps. During training (June 9th-13th) you will work a regular Monday-Friday 9-5. You will also serve as a liaison between campers and administrative staff, and provide regular feedback to administrators to ensure efficiency and effectiveness of camp operations. 

Responsibilities of the Summer Camp Counselor Naturalist (SCCN): 

• Make connections with campers and develop meaningful relationships.


• Lead campers through various outdoor and indoor activities, such as science lessons, hiking, fishing, eco art, and much more!


• Stay overnight in-cabin with your assigned campers. 


• Create opportunities within the group to allow for each camper to experience success.


• Be alert to the needs of campers and act accordingly and appropriately. 


• Communicate the needs of campers to the administrative staff when appropriate.


• Show enthusiasm and encourage campers to get involved in the activities and discussions.


• Be a good role model by demonstrating positivity, cleanliness, punctuality, sharing, chores, sportsmanship, and table manners.


• Be consistent and fair when enforcing policies and procedures.


• Maintain good public relations when interacting with parents and community members.


• Instruct campers on emergency procedures and ensure procedures are followed correctly when necessary. 


• When transitioning campers from one location to another, always ensure all campers are accounted for before departing and after arrival.


• Maintain high standards of health and safety in all activities for campers and staff. 


• Support other staff in the arrival, program, and departure of all campers. This includes leading orientation meetings and tours, working with the kitchen staff, and other Cal-Wood departments. 


• Participate in debrief meetings at the end of each week and prepare for the following week of programs.

Qualities and Qualifications:

• Must be at least 18 years of age. High School diploma required.


• Experience working with children is desired.


• First Aid/CPR certifications required (can be completed during staff training).


• Spanish fluency is highly desired, but not mandatory.


• Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

Benefits:

• $1,000/week for four weeks of camp + $500 for one week of training


• All meals provided while at camp and training


• Live and work in the beautiful Rocky Mountains!


• Weekends off 


• Access pro-deals on outdoor gear


• Learn new outdoor education skills 


• Complete Hunter Education, if desired 

Employment dates: June 9th-July 18th (including one unpaid week off, June 30-July 4)