Summer Camp Instructor

Purpose: The position of Summer Camp Instructor fulfills the Olbrich Botanical Gardens objective of increasing programming directed at youth engagement and connecting people to the natural world. The Summer Camp Instructor aids the Education Department staff in the implementation of a plant-based and environmentally focused educational summer day camp program for campers ages 7 to 10 years and youth counselors ages 12-14 years. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Facilitate day camp activities and lead a small group of campers through daily programming.
• Coordinate supplies, curricula, and daily activity preparation for the camp program, set up/take down of materials with the help of volunteers, and assist leading campers through outdoor experiences with direction from staff.
• Oversee campers and guide a range of outdoor and indoor activities
• Ensure camper health and safety by following safety and emergency procedures and guidelines
• Supervise campers during meals and snack times
• May perform administrative tasks (i.e. filing, record keeping, etc.) as needed
• Co-supervise 1-2 youth counselors ages 12-14 years
• May assist with additional projects and special programs assigned based on departmental needs, including the Blooming Butterflies exhibit, scout programs, or summer school programs.

This job description describes the general nature and scope of responsibilities for this position. Please note other duties and responsibilities may be assigned or removed at any time.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Interest and experience engaging with youth in meaningful learning experiences, providing instruction in an age-appropriate manner, managing groups of children, and working professionally with participating staff and volunteers
• Interest in garden-based learning and working knowledge of non-formal education practices
• Enthusiasm for sharing the wonders of plants and the natural world with people of all ages
• Working knowledge of gardening, plants, and horticulture
• Strong interpersonal skills; adept in communication, attentive listening, and presentation skills 
• Displays emotional intelligence, personal integrity, positive demeanor, and self-awareness
• Good leadership skills; experience leading people to accomplish specific goals
• Commitment to teamwork and exemplary standards and services across all levels of the organization for our patrons and partners
• Able to position oneself to retrieve items from the ground or low shelves and interact with persons under 4 feet in height. Able to move on uneven terrain, work with items overhead, and move items weighing up to 25 pounds
• Ability and willingness to participate in First Aid and CPR/AED training prior to the start of camp
• Ability and willingness to submit personal information for a criminal background check, as well as the ability to successfully pass a criminal background check.

Inclusion Statement: Olbrich Botanical Gardens aspires to be a destination where all visitors, volunteers, and staff are valued and feel they belong. With conscious intent and continuous learning, Olbrich Botanical Gardens' staff, volunteers, and board will address barriers to inclusion through education, operational changes, and partnerships with the community.

To Apply: No telephone inquiries, please. Submit cover letter, resume, and application to:

Ariel Christian- School & Out-of-School Programs Specialist

achristian@cityofmadison.com 

Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3330 Atwood Avenue
Madison, WI 53704
FAX: 608-246-4719

Deadline: Applications reviewed on a rolling basis; open until filled

Application Materials:

Resume 

Cover Letter                                                                                                                                         

Application Form (PDF)