Title: Vacation Week Junior Camp Counselor
Department: Exhibits & Education
Reporting to: Manager of Educational Programs
Date: February 2026
Status: Temporary Part 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 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.
Camp takes place in two sessions: February 16–20, 2026 and April 20–24, 2026 plus paid training that is flexible based on the employee's schedule. Shifts Monday through Friday, 8:30 am–4:30 pm with 30-minute unpaid daily lunch break, 37.5–40 hours per camp week.
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 (virtual or in person) 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 full-week camp session. Candidates who are available for both vacation week sessions will be prioritized.
- 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.