Summer Camp Naturalist

What would I be responsible for during the days/weeks of camp? (All on-site)

• Keep everyone safe.
• Communicate often and effectively.
• Uphold all Penn State and Shaver’s Creek policies. (Including, while in the presence of minors, remaining in ear and eye shot of another adult.)
• Be a leader and engaged team member for all of the big things (like creating the lesson plan for the group while leaving room for LIT and assistant camp naturalist input) and little things (like opening food containers) on a consistent basis.
• Lead games/activities/songs/riddles/explorative exercises throughout the week with campers.
• Set goals, actively work toward them, and check-in on progress.
• Demonstrate appreciation of others (like writing the LITs in your group a thank you each week).
• Maintain energy, engagement, and patience that work for your leadership style and staff/campers.

• Provide medical treatment and maintain records.

  Gimme the details, please!

• You will work 47-50 hours a week; gear for yourself and activities is carried on you (in your backpack or provided pack basket) and is likely to weigh 10–15 lbs.
• There is limited housing available.
• Housing may be available for out-of-the-area applicants. (There are a few rooms available; they are filled on need and a first-hire basis.)
• Training: Monday–Friday, typically 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., for the first two full weeks in June.
  • Training will include certification in First Aid, CPR, AED, and Epi-Pens. (Certification in advance of training is not needed.)
  • Training time includes peer bonding opportunities, techniques for working with children, example games/activities, lesson planning guidance, time on the trails, emergency procedures, and what a day of camp really looks/feels like.
• Camp week hours worked: Monday, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.; Tuesday–Thursday, 8:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m.; Friday, 8:00 a.m.–11:30 p.m.; Saturday (having likely stayed overnight via camping on-site and only three times a summer), 6:00–9:00 a.m.
  • These hours include a staff meeting and limited prep time in the morning, as well as meetings at the end of the day.
• It is ideal if someone can commit to the entire June 2–August 2, 2025, time frame. 

What are the benefits of this position?

• Learn and/or gain experience in the following 21st-century skills that are desirable for all jobs you will ever have: critical thinking, creativity, communication, leadership, problem solving, and adaptability.
• Form connections with peers that outlast the summer.
• Professional development through sessions at the beginning and throughout the season on a variety of topics aimed at helping you to develop as a whole person
• Possible internship credit
• Spend your summer outside in nature.
• Learn techniques for how to be present and immersed in the moment.
• Obtain 2-year certifications in First Aid, AED, CPR and Epi-Pens.
• Gain confidence through growth that you should take with you everywhere.

I’m interested! How do I apply?

Apply for Camp Naturalist on the Penn State Careers site