Houston Arboretum and Nature Center Seeks Summer Camp Instructor – Citizens’ Environmental Coalition

Houston Arboretum and Nature Center Seeks Summer Camp Instructor

Reports To: director of education
Employment status: Seasonal
Salary: $18-20 per hour

About Arboretum
The Houston Arboretum and Nature Center is a non-profit organization whose mission is to educate people of all ages about the natural environment, and to protect and improve the Arboretum as a haven and sanctuary for native plants and animals. Located on the western edge of Memorial Park, this 155-acre urban nature preserve encourages visitors to slow down and enjoy the natural world. One of the first nature-study schools for children in the state of Texas, the Arboretum proudly welcomes over 10,000 students and 500,000 visitors annually.

Description of work
Do you want to make a difference this summer and gain valuable training and work experience in environmental education? Join us as a summer camp instructor at the best summer camp in town! The Houston Arboretum and Nature Center has a long tradition of hands-on science classes for children ages 4 to 12. Every week we explore a new natural history topic. The curriculum is provided and always includes exploration of the 155-acre nature reserve and its many habitats. Preference is given to candidates with a strong scientific background. Topics for summer 2023 can be found on our website.

Duties and responsibilities
• Run one or more of 10 different week-long day camps for kids ages 4, 5-6, 7-8, or 9-12.
• Explore our environmental education curriculum and complete daily lesson plans and activities.
• Lead groups outdoors on arboretum trails in varying weather and terrain.
• Maintain a safe learning environment
• Inspire students and help them develop their creativity and self-expression.
• Monitor volunteers assigned to help with Summer Camp activities.
• Communicate effectively with Arboretum staff, campers, and campers’ parents/guardians.

Qualification
Education and experience
• Bachelor’s degree with core coursework in science, education, or related fields
• 1 year of full-time teaching, formal or informal
Skills, qualities and characteristics necessary for success
• Interest and ability to teach younger students
• Knowledge and love of nature
• Creativity, imagination and flexibility
• Comfortable handling or training in the handling of reptiles, invertebrates and biological animals (training provided)
• Enthusiasm, patience and tact in working with children and adults
• Positive attitude, sense of humor and passion for learning
Physical requirements
• Working outdoors in Houston’s changeable summer conditions.
• Standing and walking for long periods of time, often over uneven terrain
• Lifting, pulling and pushing up to 25 pounds
• Communication in conditions of moderate noise• Optional
• Ability to pass a criminal background check
• Current CPR/ER certification or the ability to obtain one prior to camp

Key Details
Position location: Central Houston, Texas
Position dates: weekly camp classes June 5 – August 11
Time Commitment: 1 or more weeks, plus introductory and training days
Opening hours: Monday – Friday, 8:15 – 15:30 (week of July 4, Wednesday – Friday only)
Pay rate: $18-20 per hour

How to apply
Please send your CV, cover letter and professional references to Tiffany Ritter, Director of Education.
[email protected]