Lead Educator/Camp Director

POSITION PURPOSE:

The ideal candidate will be passionate about nature, animals, and environmental education, experienced working with children, experienced working with animals, and be a strong leader. They will deliver high-quality educational programs, supervise campers, and support various activities and special events. Candidates must be enthusiastic about working with animals and exploring nature, in all kinds of weather, with children and families. Programs are on-site at the Hungerford Nature Center and off-site at various schools, organizations, and events.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Year-Round Responsibilities

• Lead school and community group and individual programs
• Develop and implement engaging program offerings for children and families
• Train and guide new staff on instructional methods and program delivery
• Support animal care, feeding, and exhibit maintenance as needed
• Assist with front desk operations and customer service when required.
• Support special events, birthday parties, and community outreach activities

Summer Camp Season Responsibilities

• Serve as Camp Director supervising counselors and engaging campers
• Lead summer camp operations, including staff training, program delivery, and maintaining a safe and positive camp atmosphere.
• Take on additional duties to ensure smooth camp operations

QUALIFICATIONS:

• At least 5 years working with children in an educational setting
• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Environmental Science, Outdoor Education, Recreation Management, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• Ability to deliver programs off-site and transport up to 5 storage bins/medium size animal crates using personal vehicle (mileage reimbursed according to IRS guidelines)
• Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Ability to problem-solve various challenges quickly and efficiently
• Proficiency in software applications including Google Suite
• Effective written, verbal, and interpersonal communications skills
• Vision, creativity, commitment to DEI culture, and a growth mindset perspective
• Comfortable working with domestic, native, farm and exotic animals
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors in a variety of weather conditions
• Ability to pass a background check for driving and working with children and animals
• Ability to twist, bend, reach, stand, walk, climb stairs, and lift up to 50 lbs

WORK SCHEDULE:

• Full-time, Monday - Friday, primarily between 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (flexibile; schedule may vary based on program needs)
• Extended hours and responsibilities may be required during the summer camp season
• Occasional weekends and evenings to support programing and special events

WORK LOCATION:

• Hungerford Nature Center, Berlin, CT; off-site programs as needed

COMPENSATION:

• Salary, $42,000-45,000 per year

REPORTS TO: Associate Director

Work Location: In person