Seasonal Lead Environmental Educator; Appleton

Company Overview

Founded in 1891 by a group of visionary volunteers, The Trustees of Reservations is the nation’s premier conservation and preservation organization. The Trustees preserves properties of exceptional scenic, historic, and ecological value in Massachusetts for public use and enjoyment. More than 50,000 acres, including over 27,000 acres on more than 120 reservations, are protected and open to the public. As a non‑profit, the organization is funded entirely by visitors, supporters, volunteers, and its 100,000 member households.

Hourly Rate: $18.00–$20.00/hour. Rates are determined based on relevant experience.

Hours per week: 40, Mondays‑Fridays, 8:00 AM‑4:00 PM (part‑time hours May 11‑June 5).

Job Classification:
Seasonal, Non‑Exempt.

Job Type: Onsite.

Duration:
May 11 – August 21, 2026.

Location:

Appleton Farms, Ipswich, MA.

As the Lead Environmental Educator, you will bring expertise and passion for environmental education to work with Camp Educators and campers on a curriculum that leverages the deep resources of the Farm’s education department. You will support campers in learning about essential agricultural activities and practices in a setting that includes rolling grasslands, grazing livestock, vegetable gardens, an educational barnyard, and miles of trails.

You will coordinate daily routines, weekly themes, and periodic workshops for all staff. Activities will include educational chores in the barnyard and education garden, exploration of historic property and wild habitats, food production, sustainability, ecology, arts and crafts, and free play. Two weeks of collaborative paid training prepare staff for this complex, challenging, and rewarding work. Prior to camp, you will work part‑time with year‑round staff from May 11 to June 5 to prepare materials, spaces, and training activities.

• Use farm resources and senior staff support to design camp curriculum and lead daily activities based on farming, food, sustainability, and the natural world.
• Support camp educators/counselors with activity development and group management assistance.
• Provide floating support to camper groups and senior staff as needed.
• Provide leadership in using the Learning Garden and Education Barnyard.
• Provide leadership in developing outdoor culinary activities for campers.
• Partner with Assistant Camp Directors to mentor counselors in developing daily and weekly schedules.
• Inventory supplies and prepare supply orders.
• Communicate with camper parents regarding camp questions and basic camper information.
• Perform daily camp staff schedule reviews to organize each day.
• Meet periodically with Camp Director to evaluate experience and performance.

This is a seasonal, non‑exempt position working 40 hours/week reporting directly to the Appleton Farms School and Youth Programs Manager/Camp Director.

• Demonstrated skills in environmental education and curriculum development are a must.
• Knowledge of or interest in farm‑based education, food, and sustainability.
• A bachelor’s degree in environmental or agricultural education, the sciences, education, or other relevant study is preferred.
• A special interest in outdoor education, especially in a farm‑based setting, and a positive attitude about working outdoors in all conditions.
• Part‑time availability in late May and early June for planning and preparation.
• Experience as a camp counselor, classroom teacher, informal educator, and/or childcare provider with children aged 4‑14.
• A willingness to learn, bringing passion and enthusiasm to young people each day.
• A desire and ability to share your passion for the natural world with children from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to lift 40 pounds.

• Must be at least 21 years old.
• Full availability for camp staff training weeks (June 8‑19) and all nine weeks of camp (June 22‑August 21), Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM‑4:00 PM; part‑time availability prior to June 8 to assist with camp preparation.
• Reliable transportation to work every day.
• CPR and Basic First Aid certifications required; on‑site training will be provided.
• A…