What are the responsibilities and job description for the Camp Art Educator position at Kalamazoo Nature Center?
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
Inspire Creativity and Connect Campers with Nature
Join the Kalamazoo Nature Center (KNC) as an Art Educator and help campers explore the natural world through hands-on creative experiences! You’ll develop and lead age-appropriate art lessons, oversee art projects, coordinate photography, and connect art with nature in a safe, fun, and inclusive environment.
No prior professional experience in conservation or teaching art? No problem! If you are passionate, creative, and enthusiastic about helping children explore and express themselves, you can succeed and thrive in this role.
About The Kalamazoo Nature Center
KNC is a nonprofit organization located on 1,500 acres of scenic woodlands, prairies, and wetlands. Recognized nationally as a top nature center, KNC offers over 15 miles of trails and a mission to welcome and inspire people to discover, enjoy, value, and care for nature.
We value diversity and inclusion and actively seek team members who bring different perspectives, skills, and experiences.
About The Role
As an Art Educator, you will plan and implement creative activities that connect campers with nature. You’ll maintain art materials and spaces, assist staff and campers with projects, and support daily camp operations. You’ll also step in to help other staff roles as needed, ensuring the smooth and safe running of camp programs.
This role is perfect for creative, organized, and enthusiastic individuals who enjoy working outdoors, engaging with children, and sharing a love of art and nature.
What You’ll Do
KNC provides a dynamic, collaborative, and outdoor-focused environment. You’ll have the opportunity to foster creativity, encourage self-expression, and help campers build lasting connections with nature — all while developing your own teaching and leadership skills.
Physical & Environmental Conditions
Join us this summer and help campers explore, create, and connect with the wonders of nature through art!
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
Inspire Creativity and Connect Campers with Nature
Join the Kalamazoo Nature Center (KNC) as an Art Educator and help campers explore the natural world through hands-on creative experiences! You’ll develop and lead age-appropriate art lessons, oversee art projects, coordinate photography, and connect art with nature in a safe, fun, and inclusive environment.
No prior professional experience in conservation or teaching art? No problem! If you are passionate, creative, and enthusiastic about helping children explore and express themselves, you can succeed and thrive in this role.
About The Kalamazoo Nature Center
KNC is a nonprofit organization located on 1,500 acres of scenic woodlands, prairies, and wetlands. Recognized nationally as a top nature center, KNC offers over 15 miles of trails and a mission to welcome and inspire people to discover, enjoy, value, and care for nature.
We value diversity and inclusion and actively seek team members who bring different perspectives, skills, and experiences.
About The Role
As an Art Educator, you will plan and implement creative activities that connect campers with nature. You’ll maintain art materials and spaces, assist staff and campers with projects, and support daily camp operations. You’ll also step in to help other staff roles as needed, ensuring the smooth and safe running of camp programs.
This role is perfect for creative, organized, and enthusiastic individuals who enjoy working outdoors, engaging with children, and sharing a love of art and nature.
What You’ll Do
- Develop and lead quality, age-appropriate art lessons for all camp groups, incorporating themes and nature into projects.
- Maintain art supplies, equipment, and spaces; keep them organized and functional.
- Assist campers and staff with art activities and projects.
- Support camp photography and recognition programs.
- Help with bus route supervision and weekly health checks as needed.
- Step in to support other staff roles to ensure smooth daily operations.
- Other duties as assigned by the Camp Director.
- Must be 18 years or older by the first week of camp.
- Ability to supervise children 40 hours per week.
- Strong communication skills and ability to work with groups of all ages and skill levels.
- Commitment to KNC’s mission and environmental stewardship.
- Creativity, organization, and enthusiasm for arts and outdoor education.
- Lifeguard certification preferred, but not required.
- No prior professional art or conservation experience required — passion and willingness to learn are what matter most.
KNC provides a dynamic, collaborative, and outdoor-focused environment. You’ll have the opportunity to foster creativity, encourage self-expression, and help campers build lasting connections with nature — all while developing your own teaching and leadership skills.
Physical & Environmental Conditions
- 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.
Join us this summer and help campers explore, create, and connect with the wonders of nature through art!
Salary : $13 - $14