Outdoor Education Employment Opportunities

Outdoor Education Instructor/Intern

“It’s very rewarding to get kids outside and experiencing nature directly, particularly for kids who would otherwise not have access to a site like Camp Kresge. Each day of work is different with the variety of classes taught and the range of grades and schools that visit. What remains the same, however, is the atmosphere of positivity among the staff when working together and with the groups that come out.”
– Timothy Wychock 2nd year staff member.

Now Hiring for Spring 2024 - Positions start April 2024!

Come be a part of a team of professionals that are organized, passionate for camp, nature and working with children. Gain valuable hands on experience working with people of all ages, enhance leadership abilities, work on communication skills and grow self confidence, all while having an incredible amount of fun.

Serving over 2,000 students per season, Outdoor Education Instructors will empower students to connect with nature, have fun while learning and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Outdoor Education Instructors lead hands-on science based classes including Lake Study, Animal Adaptations, Forest Ecology, Discovery Hike, and more. We also focus on outdoor adventure activities such as Team Building, Climbing Tower, High Ropes Course, and Archery. Age range for groups is preschool to high school. Each class lasts about an hour (3 classes per visit) with trail group sizes of 12-18 students. No weekday evening duties are required.

Other components of the job include leading orientation, daily set up and clean up of camp, organizing class supplies, completing camp projects, new program development, participating in paid staff training, and teaching seminars.

Qualifications:  

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Experience working with youth in an outdoor setting is preferred.
  • Must be a team player and also able to take on leadership roles and responsibilities.
  • Ability to stay motivated, professional, patient, positive, hardworking, and flexible in an outdoor setting.  
  • Desire to teach and inspire children and adults. 
  • Enthusiasm and dedication to learn and master curriculum.
  • Comfortable speaking in front of large and small groups

Compensation:  

  • Salary of $315 per 5-day week with on-site housing, meals when groups are scheduled.
  • Salary of $9.50 an hour without housing, meals when working.
  • Laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, YMCA Membership, First Aid/CPR training, and certification provided.
  • Spring Outdoor Education is a 3 month position with the option to stay on for summer and fall (totaling 8 months).
  • Access to camp equipment during time off (climbing tower, mountain bikes, watercraft to name a few, plus miles of hiking trails).