Title: Summer Junior Camp Counselor
Department: Exhibits & Education
Reporting to: Camp Director
Date: June 2026
Status: Temporary Full Time
Rate of Pay: $15.75/hr
Position Summary:
Join our team at the EcoTarium, where we spark curiosity and inspire a passion for nature and science through hands-on exhibits, live animals, and engaging programs.
As a junior camp counselor, you will supervise and instruct campers (ages 5–12) in our school vacation week camp programs. Programming is focused on a variety of natural and physical science topics and takes place on the museum floor, in classroom settings, and outdoors on our 45-acre site.
The camp season is June 15 – August 14, 2026. Junior counselors may work one or both of two camp sessions: June 22 – July 17, 2026 and/or July 20 – August 14, 2026, plus paid training the week of June 15. The schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:30 am–4:30 pm with 30-minute unpaid daily lunch break, 37.5–40 hours per week. The majority of the summer camp program takes place outdoors. In the event of thunderstorms or other unsafe outdoor conditions, designated indoor space will be available.
Essential Functions:
- Assist in the implementation of hands-on programs and activities for campers on a variety of science and nature topics.
- Support counselors with camper safety and behavior management in a positive and constructive way.
- Ensure that all campers and staff are having fun throughout the program.
- Serve as a role model for and actively support positive interaction between campers.
- Proactively problem-solve and communicate issues and solutions with campers and other camp staff.
- Deliver indoor and outdoor programming and navigate trails in a variety of weather conditions.
- Set up and maintain field gear, program materials, technical equipment, program spaces, and supplies.
- Contribute to a professional, motivational, and collaborative work environment.
Non-Essential Functions:
- Work collaboratively with EcoTarium staff on museum-wide and cross-departmental initiatives.
- Participate actively in staff meetings, daily huddles, and staff training.
Qualifications:
Required:
- 16 years of age or older. Individuals who have previously participated in the EcoTarium CIT program may apply for a Junior Counselor position at 15 years of age.
- Availability for the entirety of at least one 4-week session and week of training. Candidates who are available for both 4-week sessions are encouraged to apply.
- Demonstrated previous experience teaching and/or working with children
- Interest in and/or experience working with diverse audiences
- Comfort with presentation and/or public speaking
- Demonstrated success working both independently and as part of a team
- Flexibility and dependability
- Willingness to learn and grow through constructive feedback
- Documented proof of immunity or vaccination record as mandated by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, and completion of the camp’s health forms and waivers before the start of training
- Ability to navigate the building and grounds under any weather conditions, lift and transport up to 25 lbs., and work in a highly sensory and stimulating work environment due to constant interaction with guests
- Pass CORI and SORI background checks
An ideal candidate will have:
- Background in life science, earth science, astronomy, engineering, and/or physical science
- Experience with inquiry-based and/or experiential learning
- Experience leading or assisting programming at a science camp or museum
- A flair for public presentation
- Demonstrated ability to have fun with kids
The EcoTarium is an equal-opportunity employer. We value each member of the team, and are committed to inclusion and fostering a sense of belonging. We embrace diversity, and strive for equity and universal accessibility for employees and visitors.