Education Instructor: Summer Camp - Preschool

Education Instructor:
Summer Camp - Preschool

Holden Forests & Gardens

Opportunity:

The Education department seeks a friendly, energetic team member to lead preschool-aged summer camps (ages 4-6) at Holden Arboretum and Cleveland Botanical Garden. We are seeking a caring and creative individual who enjoys working with young children and is passionate about nature, play-based learning, and outdoor exploration. The ideal candidate will be patient, hardworking, flexible, and able to work under pressure.

Preschool camps focus on hands-on discovery, child-centered activities, and joyful engagement with the natural world.

When you join HF&G, you join a team of professionals who are passionate about improving Northeast Ohio's communities through our mission-driven programs. By joining HF&G, you will not only have the opportunity to work in a beautiful setting, you will also have the opportunity to contribute to our fulfilling and groundbreaking work.

Position Details:

* Approximately 12-15 hours weekly

* This position will work at both the Holden Arboretum in Kirtland, OH and the Cleveland Botanical Garden in Cleveland, OH

* Mandatory paid training provided May 26th - May 29th

* Camps sessions run from June 2nd - July 23rd

* Availability to work from 8:15 a.m.

- 12:30 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday during sessions of camp

* $15/hour

* A clean driving record and secure transportation is required as applicant must be able to commute to both Cleveland Botanical Garden and Holden Arboretum campuses

* Reports to Family & Youth Engagement Coordinator at both campuses

* Excellent opportunity for individuals seeking employment in a nature-related field to acquire experience in educating young people within an outdoor environment

Key Responsibilities:

* Attend summer camp training sessions May 26 - May 30 to become familiar with activities, camp facilities, and safety protocols

* Deliver quality environmental education and outdoor experiences for campers ages 4-6, including themed hikes, activities, crafts, and games

* Assist with facilitation and support of summer camp experiences at Holden Forest & Gardens including room set-up, program material preparation, and coordination with other internal instructors

* Follow health and safety guidelines to protect campers, natural areas/living collections, and facilities

* Provide consistent discipline when needed and report ongoing issues to supervising staff

* Provide friendly customer service and clear instructions to campers and families

* Contribute positively to a team of seasonal staff, contract instructors, volunteers, and others

* Perform other relevant duties as assigned

Qualifications and Skills:

* Support Holden Forests & Gardens' mission, vision, and values

* High school diploma or equivalent, required

* Minimum of 18 years of age

* Pursuing or recently completed an undergraduate degree in, Early Childhood Education, Education, Environmental Science, Child Development, Social Sciences, or related field, a plus

* At least one (1) year of experience working with young children (ages 4-6) in a camp, classroom, childcare, or informal education setting (experience in outdoor or play-based programs a plus).

* Strong understanding of child development and the ability to create safe, engaging, and age-appropriate activities that support curiosity, exploration, and social-emotional growth.

* Ability to learn and deliver lesson plans and follow activity instructions

* Good communication and customer service skills

* Applicants must have their own reliable transportation

* Interest in and knowledge of plants and natural sciences, a plus

* Valid drivers' license and acceptable driving record (of less than 3 points) required

* Must pass criminal background check

Physical Requirements

Must be able to perform with or without reasonable accommodation:

* Ability and willing to work outdoors and perform tasks in all weather conditions; temperatures may range from 15-100°F

* Effective vision and hearing along with hand and arm dexterity

* Regular lifting and carrying of up to 20 pounds, occasionally 30 pounds

* Ability to sit, stand, walk and work on wet, uneven, slippery, or rocky terrain

Some of the reasons Holden Forests & Gardens (HF&G) is a great place to work!

Work in a beautiful environment within Greater Cleveland | Discounts in our stores & cafes | Free parking at both campuses anytime we are open | Free admission to many Northeast Ohio Museums | Free Employee Assistance Program | And Much More!

Apply:

Qualified applicants should submit their resume, cover letter highlighting key relevant experiences, and a list of 3 professional references. Application material will begin being reviewed on January 16, 2026, and continue until the position is filled.

Holden Forests & Gardens is an equal opportunity employer and values an authentic sense of belonging at all levels of the organization, including staff, volunteers, Board of Directors, and visitors. HF&G believes that working toward an equitable culture that values all perspectives…