Seasonal Nature Educator

Who We Are:

Founded in 1891 by a group of visionary volunteers, The Trustees of Reservations (The Trustees) is the Massachusetts' premier conservation and preservation organization. The Trustees’ preserves, for public use and enjoyment, properties of exceptional scenic, historic, and ecological value in Massachusetts. Our properties are open to all, and we thrive by involving as many people as possible in all that we do.

We aim to protect special places for future generations to enjoy in perpetuity, and have helped protect more than 50,000 acres, including 27,000+ acres on more than 120 reservations that are open to the public. As a non‑profit conservation organization, we are funded and supported entirely by our visitors, supporters, volunteers, and our 100,000 Member households. We encourage you to learn more about The Trustees on our website,(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

Hourly Rate: $17.00 – $19.00/hour

Rates are determined based on relevant experience.

Minimum Age: 18

Hours per week: 17.5 hours/week

Job Classification: seasonal, part‑time (June 15 – August 28)

Job Type: On‑site

Location:

Rocky Woods, Medfield, MA

Are looking for an opportunity spend time outside this summer leading campers on exploratory nature hikes and environmental adventures? Are you energetic, fun, approachable, inclusive, smart, and have leadership qualities? If you love children ages 5‑13, being outdoors, and all things nature, this job is for you!

YMCA Camp at Rocky Woods is a 10‑week day camp located at The Trustees Rocky Woods, a 491‑acre reservation with scenic trails, stunning vistas, wildlife and ponds, and a deep history that make this a special place to work.

Run by the YMCA of Greater Boston, the camp is both recreational and educational, with plenty of games and crafts in addition to immersion into Rocky Woods’ unique ecosystem. Two hours each day is spent learning from Trustees nature educators about the forest and pond flora and fauna and connecting children to the natural systems that support us all.

For more information about the camp, please visit: /

As a Rocky Woods Camp Nature Educator reporting to the Lead Educator, you will collaborate on creating and implementing a 10‑week curriculum centered around the four weekly themes:
Earth Science, Animal Science, Aquatic Life, and Wilderness Adventure, with a STEM challenge ending each week on Fridays. Each day you will lead 20‑25 campers in exploratory activities that demonstrate how forests, ponds, and streams, and people are all interconnected via hands‑on activities around Rocky Woods. Flexibility and safety are key as educators continually respond to weather and trail conditions and to the energy and interests of campers.

• Lead a group of 20–25 campers along with YMCA counselors on daily two‑hour nature hikes and exploratory activities.
• Assist with designing and implementing camp curriculum and activities based on weekly themes.
• Plan daily developmentally appropriate activities that get campers excited about the environment.
• Communicate with YMCA staff regarding camp questions and basic camper information.
• Perform daily chores to organize, prepare for, and close out each day.
• Ensure safety of campers and staff by closely following established protocols.
• Meet daily with Lead Nature Educator to evaluate experience and performance.

This is a part‑time, seasonal, hourly position working 17.5 hours per week reporting directly to Lead Educator at Rocky Woods.

Required:

• Reliable transportation a must.
• Full availability for camp staff training week and all weeks of camp.
• Experience working as a camp counselor, classroom teacher, or informal educator with ages 5‑13.
• Knowledge of or interest in nature and/or education.
• Ability to effectively and respectfully engage campers from a variety of backgrounds in educational activities in an outdoor setting.
• Excellent planning and communication skills.
• Collaborative and flexible temperament.
• A great attitude about working outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Ability…