What are the responsibilities and job description for the Summer Camp Nature Instructor position at The Maryland-National Capital Park & Planning Commission?
Brookside Nature Center is seeking an energetic and enthusiastic Summer Camp Nature Instructor in Wheaton, MD to support the supervision, safety, and active care of campers. This role will be responsible for planning, teaching, coordinating, and carrying out activities and guiding campers. Our ideal Summer Camp Nature Instructor is someone who enjoys the outdoors, connects well with young people, and can serve as a positive role model for campers.
The Summer Camp Nature Instructor will be scheduled for 40 hours per week during the following camp weeks:
- June 29 – July 2, 2026
- July 6 – July 10, 2026
- July 13 – July 17, 2026
- July 20 – July 24, 2026
An additional estimated 20 hours will be scheduled in June for staff training and CPR certification.
About the HFEE and Brookside Nature Center
The Horticulture, Forestry, and Environmental Education (HFEE) Division preserves and maintains Montgomery Parks’ natural and cultural resources. Brookside Nature Center is a community hub that fosters environmental understanding and appreciation through hands-on programs, live animals, exhibits, and outdoor exploration.
Visit our website to learn more about the work of the Brookside Nature Center:
About Montgomery Parks
The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) is a six-time National Recreational and Parks Association Gold Medal Award Winner. Behind the vast and diverse Montgomery County Department of Parks system is a career staff complement of nearly 800 employees, 415 parks and over 37,000 acres of park land that serves a diverse population of more than one million residents in the Washington, DC metro area.
Supervises campers at all times, including during transitions, and engages them in safe, age-appropriate activities. Arrives on time and prepared for daily programs, meetings and assigned tasks. Leads and facilitates nature-based activities and lesson plans. Models and teaches positive communication, teamwork, and respect for diversity. Maintains accurate attendance records, first aid logs (as needed), and open communication with camper families. Administers basic first aid and provides emotional support when needed. Enforces safety protocols and guidelines and ensures well-being of all campers. Communicates clearly and positively with staff, campers, parents/guardians, and the community. Builds and maintains positive working relationships with supervisors, coworkers, families, and campers. Participates in camp programs, daily activities, and staff meetings. Attends pre-service training, including Youth Camp Safety Standards training Assists with general maintenance and upkeep of camp facilities Works cooperatively with Park Naturalist staff to support camp planning and implementation, including scheduling, games and activities, and general camp policies and procedures. Performs other duties as assigned.
Strong verbal communication and listening skills; ability to follow written directions and take correction action when needed. Physical ability to move through camp property in various outdoor conditions. Willingness to participate in and assist campers with adventure activities such as high ropes, kayaking, white-water rafting, hiking, and ice skating. Strong desire and ability to work with children in and outdoor environment.
Knowledge of Maryland natural history. Ability to communicate in another language a plus. Current CPR/ First Aid certification Experience working with children and young adults in an outdoors/camp setting Previous camp experience strongly desired.
This is a part-time, seasonal position, and is ineligible for benefits. Must be at least 18 years of age Must have at least 1 year of college or two years of experience equivalency. Employment is contingent upon fingerprinting, a background investigation, and Child Protective Services (CPS) clearance.
The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate a workplace culture of diversity, equity and inclusion without discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, gender identity, or any other non-merit factor.
Applicants with Disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
If you require accommodations or special arrangements due to a qualifying disability, please notify the Recruitment & Selections Services Unit at the time of applications at or 301-454-1411 (Maryland Relay 7-1-1)
M-NCPPC will make all efforts to reasonably accommodate you.