Outdoor Education Instructor

We are currently hiring for our Fall Season, which begins August 31st, 2026.

ABOUT BATTLE CREEK OUTDOOR EDUCATION CENTER

The Outdoor Education Center (OEC), commonly called 'Clear Lake Camp', is a division of the Battle Creek Public School System (BCPS). We are located on Clear Lake in Dowling, Michigan. We offer a serene rural environment less than an hour's drive from Lansing, Grand Rapids, and Kalamazoo.

As the oldest school camp in the nation, we have been offering programs to supplement school curriculum for over 60 years. We currently offer overnight and day programs to schools located across southern Michigan. In addition, we host weddings, family retreats, and workshops.

INSTRUCTOR POSITION

Instructors at the OEC serve an essential role in the camp experience for visiting students. They are responsible for providing an engaging, positive experience in the hands-on education of students. Instructors oversee groups of students during the day by leading activities, overnight while supervising groups in the dorms, and are involved with the day to day care of OEC resources, such as animal ambassadors, adventure courses, land, and trails. They will also be required to participate in Facilitator training for our Challenge Courses, which will be provided by the OEC.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS

• Lead student groups in experiential learning activities in an outdoor setting
• Teach classes with a science, adventure, and outdoor pursuits focus, includes programs such as Pond Exploration, Canoeing, and Survival. Be able to teach programs independently as well as teach with co-instructors
• Manage student behavior and discipline when necessary
• Facilitate and supervise students during daily meals
• Work with classroom teachers to meet class goals within the program framework
• Support students emotional and developmental needs
• Handle and help care for the OEC animals; tortoise, snakes, frogs, fish, and raptors
• Upkeep classrooms, equipment, and program areas
• Attend all staff meetings and training sessions
• Adhere to all camp policies and procedures
• Perform other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS

• At least 18 years old.
• Current certifications in CPR and First Aid
• Prior experience working with children
• Demonstrated ability to work with co-workers in a team setting
• Willingness to provide overnight supervision of students on a rotating basis
• Required to work up to 10 hours a day
• Ability to work flexible hours, including split shift
• A willingness to be coached and open to performance feedback
• Ability to work outside in all weather conditions; rain, snow, cold, heat, etc.
• Pass background check, drug screen, and central registry clearance (at own expense)
• Will be employed by EDUStaff; our contract hiring agency

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Natural Science, or related degree
• At least 21 years of age
• Certifications in Wilderness First Aid, Wilderness First Responder, and/or Lifeguard (with open water)
• Experience with urban student populations
• Experience supervising children overnight
• Prior experience in environmental or outdoor education

WORKING CONDITIONS
Programs are run in all weather conditions, instructors need to be able to work outdoors for long hours in cold, heat, rain, snow, and other weather that arises. Instructors will also need to be able to stand for hours and be able to hike up to 5 miles. Should be able to lift or move up to 25 pounds. Additionally, Instructors need to be physically able to facilitate and belay on a High Ropes Course and a rock climbing wall. Instructional season consists of up to 3-4 months employment with pre-defined periods of non-paid time off.