Camp Counselor

Join to apply for the Camp Counselor role at Kalamazoo Nature Center
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This range is provided by Kalamazoo Nature Center. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

$13.00/hr – $14.00/hr

Classification: Full-time, Seasonal, Hourly/Non-Exempt
Supervisor: Camp Director
Schedule: ~8:00am–4:30pm, Monday–Friday, June 1 – August 17 (week of July 4 off)
Compensation: $13.25/hr ($14/hr for returning staff)
Benefits: 1-year KNC household membership, 10% discount at Trailhead gift shop, access to robust employee assistance program
Make a Difference Outdoors This Summer!

KNC is a nonprofit organization on 1,500 acres of rolling woodlands, prairies, and wetlands — named one of the top nature centers in the country. With over 15 miles of scenic trails and a mission to welcome and inspire people to discover, enjoy, value, and care for nature, KNC offers an unforgettable setting for campers and staff alike. We’re also proud to reflect the diverse community we serve.

We believe the outdoors is for everyone and are committed to building a welcoming, inclusive team.

KNC Camp Counselors are the heart of our summer camp program — creating safe, enriching, and joy-filled experiences that spark curiosity and confidence in young explorers. Each counselor leads a small group (up to 10 campers per week), blending fun and learning through hands-on outdoor adventures, games, crafts, and nature discovery. You’ll work closely with fellow counselors and leadership staff to deliver creative programming that helps children connect deeply with nature — and with each other.

You don’t need to be an expert in nature, science, or childcare to thrive here. We’ll teach you everything you need to know! What matters most is your enthusiasm, curiosity, and willingness to grow. If you love being outdoors, enjoy working with people, and want to make a positive impact, you can succeed y of our best counselors started with little or no experience — and left with valuable leadership, teaching, and teamwork skills they’ll use for years to come.

• Lead and supervise groups of campers in outdoor activities, nature play, and educational programs.
• Create and maintain a safe, inclusive environment for all participants.
• Work from weekly schedules and lead activities that align with KNC’s mission and camp themes.
• Support registration, pick-up/drop-off, and daily transitions.
• Collaborate with fellow staff to organize special events and group programs.
• Maintain and sanitize equipment and materials.
• Communicate regularly with supervisors and complete required reports.
• Model respect, curiosity, teamwork, and stewardship for campers.
• Other duties as assigned by the Camp Director.

• Must be at least 18 years old by the first week of camp.
• Passion for working with children and connecting people with nature.
• Commitment to inclusivity and environmental stewardship.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather and terrain.
• Positive, flexible attitude and reliable teamwork skills.
• Willingness to commit to the full camp season.
• Previous experience with children, camps, or outdoor education is a plus, but not required.
• Lifeguard certification is preferred.

KNC is a place where people launch careers in outdoor education, recreation, childcare, and leadership. You’ll gain real-world experience in teaching, team collaboration, and environmental interpretation — all while spending your days outdoors surrounded by forest, field, and laughter. Expect a fast-paced, energetic environment that’s both challenging and deeply rewarding. You’ll go home each day tired but inspired, knowing you made a difference.

• Nature-based camp means walking several miles per day on hilly terrain and rustic trails.
• The work is outdoors in hot, humid Michigan weather.
• Work environment may be loud with active groups of children.

The Kalamazoo Nature Center provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind, in accordance with federal, state, and local laws.

Join us this summer and help inspire the next generation to love, protect, and care for the natural world!

Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Kalamazoo Nature Center by 2x.

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