NATURE CAMP COUNSELOR

JOB SUMMARY: The Camp Counselor assists with the development and delivery of nature-based educational programs at the Irons Oaks Environmental Learning Center.  The H-F Park District’s mission statement is “to enhance the quality of life through diverse recreational opportunities, facilities and parks while caring for the environment”.

ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide outstanding customer service to our internal and external guests by providing friendly, responsive, courteous and helpful service.
• Assist staff with day-to-day delivery of summer camp programs and activities based on weekly themes.
• Care for program materials including set up & take down.
• Provide guidance to campers and implement camp rules.

• Attend staff in-services and meetings as assigned.
• Interpret input from program participants.
• Adheres to the policies and procedures as outlined in the Safety Manual.
• Other related job duties as assigned.

COGNITIVE SKILLS REQUIRED:

• Read and implement the summer camp program according to manual.
• Respond to questions and concerns from program participant’s/parents.
• Must be able to motivate campers, have good leadership and communication skills and able to work without continued direction.

JOB SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must be able to effectively communicate with children K- 6.
• Must work well independently as well as with a team.
• Experience leading activities with children.
• Basic knowledge of natural systems, environmental issues, ecology and biodiversity preferred.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING:

• 16 years of age or older and interest in biology, education, environmental studies or related field. 
• Knowledge of nature related activities, games, crafts and outdoor skills preferred. 
• CPR and AED certification.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

STANDING:               Frequent
SITTING:                    Frequent
WALKING:                Frequent: Up to 1 mile per day
LIFTING:                    Frequent: minimum 25 lbs and under 50lbs.
STOOPING:               Frequent
REACHING:              Frequent
CLIMBING:               Occasional
VERBAL:                    Ability to communicate concepts and activities with various age groups.
VISION:                       Necessary for instruction and safety

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS:

• Will be exposed to all weather conditions.
• May be exposed to high mosquito populations, stinging insects and poison ivy during the growing season.

Part-Time Benefits:

• Discounted individual fitness membership at Racquet Fitness Center
• Discounted golf fees and driving range tokens at Coyote Run
• Individual admission to open skate at H-F Ice Arena
• Individual Lions pool pass
• 20% off (1) facility rental/year
• 20% off birthday party package for child(ren)
• 20% off program fees
• Irons Oaks ropes course & climbing tower
• Individual ski rental at Irons Oaks (cross-country skiing)
• 457 Retirement Plan
• Participation in Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund - only available if required minimum hours are met (work more than 1,000 hours in a year).
• Additional benefits for facility employees only.
• Paid CPR/AED training and certification
• Paid Leave Time Off

Salary : $16 - $17