Farm Trekkers Camp Counselor

Camp Staff Position at Boston Nature Center

Boston Nature Center Camp is seeking individuals to support experiential nature-based learning for campers. We aim to promote positive youth development, stewardship for the environment, and a respectful and inclusive safe space for all our campers.

The Farm Trekkers program is a partnership between camp programs at the Boston Nature Center and Drumlin Farm for campers to learn about food and farming between the two sites. Each week 10 Boston-area and 10 Lincoln-area children will care for farm animals, explore the two sanctuaries, work in the crop fields and gardens, and taste food you've gathered together.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Oversee camper safety during field trips including driving to and from sister camp Drumlin Farm Camp in Lincoln, MA and field trip locations
• Lead a group of children by exploring farms, gardens, hiking trails, and off-site community organizations on field trips
• Work with a team to develop, plan, and implement age-appropriate food and farm-based lessons and daily activities for children
• Assist in cleanup/organization at the end of each day
• Ensure health and safety of all children in group
• Treat all campers with compassion
• Act as a role model to both campers and colleagues
• Regularly inspect, maintain, and alert leadership staff of any issues or needs for education program equipment, supplies, and/or materials
• Participate in all camp activities such as drop off and pick up, opening and closing circles, all camp games, and camp set up and clean up
• Create and maintain a physically and emotionally safe environment for all campers and staff; make independent safety decisions when needed
• Safely transport and oversee campers in vans and during offsite field trips

Qualifications

Required qualifications as per Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MA DPH) regulations, American Camp Association standards and Mass Audubon Policy:

• At least 21 years of age
• Must hold valid driver's license and have the ability to drive a 12-passenger van
• At least 4 weeks of experience working with children including, but not limited to, babysitting (volunteer or otherwise) and experience with younger siblings
• Hold current First Aid and CPR certifications or participate in Mass Audubon provided training to obtain certification prior to the beginning of camp
• Provide documented proof of immunity or vaccination record as mandated by MADPH; complete camp health form and waiver
• Willing to be outdoors for several hours per day in most weather conditions
• Ability to physically access sanctuary terrain and trails easily by foot
• Ability to effectively interact with others, especially children, in camp's youth-centered environment
• Ability to adapt to changes in schedule and work assignment

Desired Qualifications

• Strong interest or related education experience in Environmental Studies, Biology, Conservation, Education, or related field
• Familiarity with regional natural history, wildlife conservation, or other applicable natural history topics
• Prior experience working at a day or residential camp

Work Schedule

Camp staff training will be held from June 10th through June 19th, 2026. Camp runs from June 22nd through August 29th, 2026. Hours for this position are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM.

Compensation and Benefits

This position's pay range is $18.30 - $21.00 per hour; actual pay will be determined based on experience level, qualifications relative to position requirements, and location of the position. This is not a benefits eligible position.

Perks of Working at Mass Audubon

• Free First Aid/CPR training offered in June
• "Pro-Deal" discounts on outdoor clothing, equipment and more at Mass Audubon's shops
• Network and collaboration with staff from multiple Mass Audubon departments, including Conservation Science and Education
• Hands-on training in natural history, group leadership, and behavior management (as applicable)

Training Requirements

All Mass Audubon Camp Staff undergo mandatory training prior to interacting with campers. Training includes: Natural History, Lesson Planning, Behavior Management, Games, and more.

Other Requirements

Employees must successfully complete a CORI and SORI Background Check and a Motor Vehicle Record (if applicable) is required.

Mass Audubon's Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Justice

Mass Audubon embraces diversity and equal opportunity in a serious way. We are dedicated to forming a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. People of color are strongly encouraged to apply.

Mass Audubon's mission is to "protect the nature of Massachusetts for people and for wildlife" by building a strong coalition of employees, volunteers, and community members. We recognize that the environmental movement and field of conservation have been affected by societal systems that have limited opportunity and access for many people. As a result, Mass Audubon is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. We are engaged in an ongoing process of organizational assessment and change, designed to remove barriers and create a workplace where all forms of diversity are recognized and valued.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Mass Audubon is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. Mass Audubon prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.