Nature Camp Instructor/Counselor
Camp Instructor/Counselor
Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust - Camp Mummichog
Reports to: Education Director
Mission: Coastal Rivers cares for the lands and waters of the Damariscotta-Pemaquid Region by conserving special places, protecting water quality, creating trails and public access, and deepening connections to nature.
Position Summary: Camp Mummichog is an outdoor, nature-adventure summer day camp, where learning happens through exploration, play, creativity and discovery. Camp staff spend their days outside hiking, exploring tidepools, making art, playing games, and helping campers build confidence and connection to the natural world.
Camp Counselors/Instructors support all aspects of camp programming and operations, working part of a collaborative team to create a safe, joyful, and engaging experience for campers ages 5-14.
We are looking for enthusiastic, reliable, and caring staff who enjoy being outdoors and working with young people. The ideal candidate brings curiosity, patience, a sense of humor, and a genuine interest in helping campers feel safe, included, and excited to learn.
This position is ideal for education majors, environmental studies students, graduating high school students, and anyone with a passion for working with young people outdoors.
Hours: 35-40 hours per week, 8:30am to 3:30pm, June 29 - August 14
Compensation: $18 to $23/hr depending on experience and training. Housing may be available.
Training is required and fully paid for by Coastal Rivers and valuable for future outdoor, education, and youth-focused jobs:
- Camp staff training (week of June 29)
- Wilderness First Aid Certification (weekend of June 20-21)
- CPR/AED Certification
- Mandated Reporter Certification (provided during camp staff training only for ages 18+)
Duties and Responsibilities:
Camper Care & Safety
- Supervise campers to ensure their safety, well-being, and positive camp experience
- Know and follow all emergency procedures and standing orders
- Follow camp pick-up and drop-off procedures
- Maintain accurate camp records (attendance, incidents, medications, dietary needs)
Programming & Education
- Plan and lead outdoor, hands-on nature education activities with team members
- Organize and facilitate small- and large-group games and activities
- Assist with weekly field trips to local preserves
Professional Responsibilities
- Model respectful behavior toward campers, staff, wildlife, and natural spaces
- Uphold Coastal Rivers’ values of welcoming and caring
- Mentor Junior Counselors and Counselors-in-Training (CITs)
- Communicate important information to the Education Director
Requirements:
- Must be at least 16 years of age at the start of the camp season
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions from rain to humidity
- Interest in nature and teaching outdoor education and in developing necessary skills
- Previous experience working with youth
- Strong leadership skills
- Strong communication skills with youth, parents, and staff
- Must be able to walk 3 miles at a rigorous pace, and lift up to 50lbs.
- Must pass a federal and state background check
- A vehicle is necessary for getting to job and field trip sites.
Join the Camp Mummichog team and inspire the next generation of adventurers and nature enthusiasts!
To apply: Please send your resume, a cover letter, and a list of references to Sarah Gladu, Director of Community Science, sgladu@coastalrivers.org by March 25, 2026 but will be considered on a rolling basis.
Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by law. We are an equal opportunity employer dedicated to creating an inclusive culture where employees from diverse backgrounds can thrive and support our mission.