Summer Camp Naturalist Educator

Summer Camp Lead Educator

Assistant educator roles also available.

• Full-time, non-exempt
• Seasonal Position: June 7th-Aug 28th, 2026
• Pay rate: $19.50 per hour. Not eligible for benefits.
• Schedule: Approx. 40 hours per week, Monday-Friday. Shift times will vary between 7:00am-6:00pm. Note: Lead Educator training begins on Sunday 6/7.

Job Summary

Tyler Arboretum’s education programs support our mission to conserve our historic landscapes and connect people with the natural world. Summer Camp at Tyler Arboretum serves campers in rising K-5th grade. Camp is primarily outdoors, and features nature-based crafts and activities, nature play, gardening and cooking, hiking, outdoor skills, and exploring the creek.

Seasonal Lead Educators are responsible for setting expectations, group culture, and leading all aspects of the camper day. Curricula, tools, supplies, and site training are provided. Seasonal Lead Educators are paired with Assistant Educators. Our small camp expects all our staff to be flexible generalists, team players, and to do their part to establish a kind, curious, and fun camp culture.

This role would be ideal for experienced outdoor educators and teachers who are looking to deepen their leadership skills and grow independence in a spectacular outdoor classroom.

Required Skills and Abilities

• Safely facilitate outdoor activities and nature play with children.
• Follow written curricula and adjust activities to suit each group.
• Identify teachable moments and improvise emergent curricula to follow the interests of the group.
• Remain organized, punctual, and focused on the camper experience throughout the day.
• Communicate professionally with staff, volunteers, visitors, parent/guardians, and campers.
• Use age-appropriate behavior management strategies to maintain safe, kind, and firm boundaries and a positive group culture.
• Model a positive relationship with nature through preparedness, curiosity, risk awareness, and a growth mindset.

Ideal candidates may also have the following:

• Experience with plant ID, animal tracking, herbal medicine, wild foraging, primitive skills, wilderness survival, or other practical naturalist skills
• Experience with trauma-informed and inclusive teaching practices
• Experience working with students with special needs
• Proficiency in the Spanish language or other languages commonly spoken in Delaware County

Education and Experience

• Possess a minimum of two years of experience leading outdoor programs for children.
• Have strong outdoor skills and risk awareness relevant to summertime in Southeastern Pennsylvania.
• First aid/CPR certified or ability to obtain certification by start date
• Current Keep Kids Safe Clearances or ability to obtain by start date

Physical Requirements

• Able to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Ability to be active throughout a full day of work, including the capacity to run, jump, squat, sit on the ground, stand for prolonged periods, and walk at least 5 miles on- and off-trail while carrying a backpack.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds.

Application Instructions

Email Chris Lauf, Director of Education: [email protected]

1) Resume

2) THREE recent professional references, including a recent supervisor

3) Answers to the following questions (max 250 words per answer):

a) Why are you a great match for this role?

b) How will this job further your personal or professional goals?

c) What else should we know about you that may not be reflected in your resume?

4) How did you hear about this job?

Application period closes Friday, March 20th . If positions remain after this date, applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Pay: $19.50 per hour

Work Location: In person