Preschool Camp Counselor

$14/hour

Sanibel Sea School is part of the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) family. The mission of SCCF is to protect and care for Southwest Florida's coastal ecosystems. Reinforcing this organizational purpose is the mission of Sanibel Sea School: to improve the ocean’s future, one person at a time. We are one organization with a united mission to improve, protect, and care for nature.

Our Flagship Campus is located on the east end of Sanibel Island, on the southwest coast of Florida. Experiential educational offerings include day classes, non-residential summer and winter camps, paddling and outdoor education activities, after-school, homeschooling, private excursions, and outreach programs for the local community. Sanibel Sea School serves all ages, but its primary audience is 6 to 13.

We are a small staff, extremely passionate about the ocean and our work; we strive to offer exceptional customer service and education to each client. We are dedicated to our students’ growth and strongly believe in the value of experiential education in nature. Learning outdoors builds self-confidence, encourages trust, and ignites curiosity and wonder. Our goal is simple: through exploration and discovery, we want to help children fall in love with the ocean and become lifelong advocates for the environment.

We are also committed to a diverse workplace and strongly encourage applications from underrepresented groups in marine and environmental sciences.

Counselors lead small groups through age-appropriate activities, support campers’ social and emotional growth, and help children feel comfortable, confident, and excited to explore, play, and learn. This role requires patience, energy, creativity, and a genuine love of working with young children. Sanibel Sea School partners with Children’s Education Center of the Islands (CECI) to host Sea Squirts Summer Camps specifically designed for early childhood.

This position will train for two weeks at our main campus in May and then execute three consecutive weeks of camp at the CECI campus in June.

You can read more about our summer camps here and see photos from past years here .

Note:

This job description is intended to outline the primary duties and responsibilities of the Marine Science Educator. It is not in order of priority or an exhaustive list. Other duties may be assigned as required.

• Oversee the logistical aspects of their groups: following the day’s schedule, gathering supplies, setting up activities, and carrying all necessary paperwork.
• Share your knowledge of marine science and passion for the natural environment to captivate and engage campers.
• Foster an appreciation for marine ecosystems and instill good ocean stewardship practices, setting an example for the camp.
• Act as a representative of Sanibel Sea School, promoting our programs within the local, regional, and national communities.
• Foster a positive, inclusive atmosphere encourages camper participation and teamwork.
• Demonstrate a positive and professional attitude as a role model for campers.
• Uphold camp values and promote positive character development among campers.

• Supervise young children (ages 4
  - 6) in various challenging outdoor and marine environments. Lead and assist with age-appropriate activities such as games, crafts, nature exploration, beach/water play, and group routines
• Ensure the safety and well-being of camp participants at all times.
• Help campers with transitions, routines, and basic self-care (bathroom breaks, sunscreen, hydration, snack/lunch time).
• Assist with the upkeep of facilities and equipment, and conduct regular safety checks to ensure a safe and efficient learning environment.
• Ensure the Camp Coordinator is aware of any changes to your group’s schedule and intended locations so they have up-to-date information.
• Follow safety protocols and emergency procedures to ensure the well-being of clients and staff. Review safety training independently to stay…