Science Camp Outdoor Education Instructor
LOCATION:
Multiple Sites in the San Bernardino Mountains,
California
WAGES/PAY:
$140-150/day
Benefits:
- Free Meals at Work
- Optional $100 subsidized housing in Crestline, CA or Big Bear, CA
- Weekends and Holidays Off
- WiFi Access
- Professional Development Subsidies (Up to $500)
- Sponsored Staff Outings
- PTO is accrued to a maximum of 5 days
EXPERIENCE:
Experience working with school age children or a science background.
FALL START DATE:
September 11th, 2023 - May31st, 2024
ABOUT:
Located at multiple sites in the San Bernardino Mountains, ECOS Institute welcomes students, teachers, and staff to life at 6,500 feet above sea level. While base camp is close to several towns and to all of the advantages of civilization, you’ll enjoy the thrill of living in a remote, natural area, with fresh air, clean water, and the chance to connect with the natural world. End work in the forest at noon on Friday, then surf at the beach or camp in the desert with world-class rock climbing and starry skies! This position welcomes both experienced and entry-level candidates as all training will be provided.
Are You Looking for Life’s Next Adventure?
Become a mentor and guide for 5th and 6th-grade students from across Southern California as they experience life at science camp. With a focus on whole-child development, ECOS Institute aims to cultivate curiosity, confidence, and connection in every student. Working as part of a team of 30 passionate and professional educators, ECOS Instructors facilitate natural science lessons rooted in the key components of student-led exploration, inquiry, and investigation. Wildlife biology, local geology, and forest ecology are central to the curriculum, and all incoming staff receive thorough training on science instruction of the local ecosystems, childcare, and group management. As a cabin leader, you will supervise a team of 15-20 students, guiding them through personal challenges, team-building activities, and a comprehensive camp experience that includes plenty of games, songs, and good 'ol fun! Instructors also serve as the primary supervisor for students in the cabins at night.
ECOS INSTRUCTOR JOB DESCRIPTION
To provide direction, guidance and monitor the activities and safety of students during their participation in a residential Outdoor Science Institute (OSI) at multiple sites in the San Bernardino Mountains. Provide instruction regarding the natural sciences, through nature hikes, lessons and activities and performs related duties as assigned. This job requires evening shifts and staying overnight in cabins with students.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Instructors report directly to the program director or an assistant director when the program director is off-site. Lead Instructors provide guidance and direction to instructors. Instructors directly supervise students.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Ability to hike 5 miles at high elevation and stand for long periods. Ability to lift 25 pounds from ground level.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Supervise a group of 10-15 students (cabin group) at a residential camp setting for 3-5 days at a time.
- Enforce discipline and safety standards.
- Direct and supervise students during dining time, bedtime, cabin cleanup and other group living activities.
- Communicate directions clearly to students.
- Counsel and empathize with students that are “missing home”.
- Act as a role model for the students while away from parents and school.
- Monitor student cabin during the night. Respond to emergency situations which may arise.
- Instruct and teach students on nature trails and hikes; educate students about basic concepts of geology, ecology, wildlife biology, astronomy, conservation and survival with hands on activities; cover required outdoor science curriculum during allotted time.
- Lead large and small group activities.
- Plan, organize and lead craft and recreational activities.
- Lead songs and games.
- Anticipate and take measures to avoid potential safety hazards and health needs; administer First Aid and CPR to students when needed; care for students that are sick or refer to on-site Health Care Center.
- Direct and lead entertainment in evenings; assist students in creating skits and songs; encourage student creativity and involvement.
- Assist in maintaining a clean and orderly learning environment to ensure the health and safety of students; assist in cleaning and straightening the cabin, site, and dining areas.
- Other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
- Natural science subject matter, including geology, ecology, wildlife biology, astronomy, conservation.
- Methods, practices and techniques of science instruction through specialized outdoor lesson plans, projects, hikes and instructional materials.
- Methods and practices of child instruction and tutoring.
- Correct English usage, including spelling, grammar and punctuation.
- CPR and First Aid.
Ability to:
- Supervise, instruct and engage students in positive learning, in a residential outdoor field setting.
- Carefully monitor the activities of students to ensure their safety and well-being.
- Present material to students in an innovative, imaginative and creative manner.
- Organize, set priorities and exercise sound judgment within areas of responsibility.
- Organize and maintain confidential student records and files.
- Communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing.
- Understand and follow written and oral instructions.
- Deal with sensitive and difficult situations.
- Establish and maintain effective working relationships with fellow Instructors, executive directors, program director, staff of visiting school districts, parents, students, site staff and others encountered in the course of work.
- Must demonstrate attendance sufficient to complete duties of the position as required.
Education, Training, and Experience:
One year of experience working with children in an organized outdoor camp setting or supervising school age children; and completion of one year of study at a college or university.
Licenses; Certificates; Special Requirements:
Obtain valid CPR and First Aid certifications. Current TB Test and physical. Clear criminal history.
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