The University of Michigan Biological Station (UMBS) is hiring a Nature Day Camp Assistant to help foster learning experiences and support youth activities that contribute to the overall research and teaching efforts.
UMBS is a residential field research station located in Pellston, Michigan. During the summer months, students, faculty, researchers and their families from around the country live, take courses and conduct field research at the Biological Station and throughout northern Michigan.
POSITION SUMMARY
The UMBS Nature Day Camp Assistant will help develop and lead activities for children whose families are living and working at the UMBS Pellston campus June 16 – August 1, 2025. Primary responsibilities include developing and delivering environmental educational activities to children ages 4-7 and 8-12, Monday – Friday 8 a.m – 4 p.m. The coordinator will report to the Lead Nature Day Camp Instructor.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Assist with the design and preparation of daily, age appropriate, hands-on, student-centered, nature awareness programs that incorporate the art and sciences. [This should happen during the pre-program planning period]
- Prepare, acquire supplies, set up and clean up from camp activities and help to create and maintain program props and supplies.
- Observe camper behavior, assess its appropriateness, enforce appropriate safety regulations and emergency procedures and apply appropriate behavior-management techniques.
- Use positive behavior management strategies and follow safe risk management and station safety guidelines.
- Effectively communicate and coordinate with all parents and participants to ensure overall success.
- Ensure safety of site, activities and participants; report any accidents, injuries and safety concerns.
- Provide develop positive and welcoming relationships participants and parents.
PROGRAM SCHEDULE & COMPENSATION
Position will begin June 10 for activity planning and the day camp will run June 16 through August 1, 2025, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. Weekend work may be required. Housing and meals will be provided at the UMBS Pellston campus June 13 through August 3. Hourly pay rate is $16 - $18.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Current certification or ability to be certified in Adult & Child CPR/First Aid, Epi-Pen & Asthma.
- Able to receive a clean criminal background check prior to hire and working with youth.
- Undergraduate degree or currently taking college classes in STEM-related field, education, or environmental education.
- Previous experience teaching or guiding children of all ages. Previous camp experience is a plus.
- Experience designing and leading hands-on indoor and outdoor learning activities.
- Positive, kind and enthusiastic attitude
- Good organizational skills
- Ability to effectively communicate with diverse audiences.
TO APPLY
Please submit a cover letter, resume and contact information of three references to UMBS Associate Director Karie Slavik, slavik@umich.edu. Application review will begin February 17, 2025.
