What are the responsibilities and job description for the Summer Camp Counselor position at Putnam Northern Westchester BOCES?
Putnam Northern Westchester BOCES is seeking a dynamic and experienced Lead Summer Camp Counselor / Recreational Specialist to support the Young Naturalists Environmental Day Camp at the Center for Environmental Education.
The Lead Counselor works alongside full-time naturalists and seasonal staff to deliver safe, hands-on, and engaging outdoor programming for campers in grades K–2 and/or 3–5.
The Lead Summer Camp Counselor is responsible for facilitating and adapting an exciting, educational, and FUN outdoor camp experience focused on:
- Nature exploration
- Conservation and environmental science
- Field investigations and hands-on learning
- Team-building and outdoor recreation
This role includes direct camper supervision, staff leadership, activity planning, and daily operational oversight.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and supervise campers in a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, wildlife observation, nature crafts, team-building exercises, and environmental education lessons.
- Oversee the day-to-day operations of the summer camp, ensuring the safety and well-being of all campers.
- Assist in the design and implementation of age-appropriate educational programs focusing on nature, conservation, and environmental science.
- Serve as a point of contact for campers, parents, and staff, maintaining open and effective communication throughout the camp season.
- Assist with camp logistics, including daily schedules, activity planning, and camp material preparation.
- Handle CEE’s animal ambassadors and ensure that all interactions with animals are safe and educational for campers.
- Provide leadership and guidance to seasonal counselors, helping them to manage camper behavior and resolve any issues that arise during the camp day.
- Maintain a positive and safe camp atmosphere, ensuring all camp policies and procedures are followed.
Qualifications:
Required:
- Strong knowledge of environmental science, conservation, and outdoor activities.
- Experience leading and supervising groups of children, with a focus on safety and engagement.
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team and take initiative when necessary.
- Strong communication and organizational skills.
- Interest in working with or alongside animals, including reptiles, birds, and mammals, in a safe and educational manner.
Preferred but not required:
- Bachelor’s degree (awarded or in progress) or significant course work in Environmental Science, Education, Biology, Ecology, or a related field OR 2 years as an environmental / outdoor educator.
- CPR and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain prior to start)
- Wilderness First Responder certification
- Experience working with live educational animals
- Familiarity with local ecosystems and native species
NOTE: All counselors must have a NYS fingerprint clearance registered through the NYS TEACH system. This is not required before interviewing but is required before you can be hired.
Compensation and Schedule:
- Temporary, seasonal summer position
- Competitive hourly compensation
- Camp season: June 26 – August 10
- Workday: 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Application Instructions:
Interested applicants should submit a brief letter of interest to:
Annie Pace, Program Coordinator summercamp@pnwboces.org.
Applications for this seasonal position will be reviewed on a rolling basis until positions are filled.