Overview
YMCA CAMP CHEROKEE
Job Title: Environmental Education Field Instructor
Classification: Nonexempt (Seasonal)
Reports to: Director of Environmental Education
Position Purpose:
To further the mission of the camp through the development and delivery of nature or environmental activities that are safe, fun, and appropriate to the campers’ age and abilities and reflect the camp’s commitment to stewardship of the natural environment.
Essential Job Functions:
1. Develop and deliver a nature or environmental program that is appropriate for the age and ability of the campers and utilizes the camp’s natural environment.
Write lesson plans that meet camp outcomes and the abilities of the campers and
encompass environmental studies with topics such as geology and soils, plant
adaptations, wildlife habitat, basic astronomy, water ecology, animal science, and natural history.
Implement a variety of age and ability appropriate activities in the above stated
environmental areas.
Evaluate the success of the nature or environmental program.
2. Ensure that camp staff and campers know and follow safety and educational procedures.
Assist in the implementation of staff training for nature or environmental studies.
Train other staff in their responsibilities in their nature or environmental studies.
Ensure campers and staff follow safety procedures.
3. Assist in the management and care of the physical facilities and equipment in the nature or environmental program area.
Maintain the program equipment including iPads, Labquest Verniers, high rope equipment, waterfront equipment (boats, PFD’s, paddles, etc.), and any other equipment used at Camp Cherokee.
Be responsible for observing hazards or enhancements in the natural environment and alerting other appropriate staff.
Ensure that the nature or environmental equipment and supplies are inventoried and
steps are taken to replace or fix them in a timely manner.
Conduct a daily check of the area and equipment for safety, cleanliness, and good repair.
Other Job Duties:
Participate enthusiastically in all camp activities, planning and leading those as assigned.
Participate as a member of the camp staff team to deliver and supervise evening
programs, special events, overnights, and other all-camp activities and camp functions.
Equipment Used:
Environmental education supplies, including but not limited to, Microsoft Word, Excel, iPads, Labquest Verniers, high rope equipment, waterfront equipment (boats, PFD’s, paddles, etc.), cabins, common areas and other buildings, and more.
Communication devices; cell phones and radios.
Compensation:
$12-$15/ hr
Free YMCA Membership
Additional Employment Opportunities and Trainings
*Most dates are in March, April and May. Staff trainings will take place in late February or March.
Qualifications:
Qualifications:
Documented experience in nature or environmental instruction or documented training and experience.
Teaching or substituting experience preferred
Certification in first aid and CPR (also offered through the YMCA)
Bachelor’s or associates degree (In progress or graduate)
Required Skills:
Knowledge Skills and Abilities:
Training and experience in teaching nature or environmental studies to children.
Desire and ability to work with children outdoors in varied conditions.
Knowledge of natural history, biology, ecology, and related fields.
Experience with care and maintenance of natural displays and exhibits.
Physical Aspects of the Position:
Ability to communicate and work with groups participating (age and skill levels) and
provide necessary instruction to participants and staff.
Ability
About YMCA Camp Cherokee
YMCA Camp Cherokee, located in Kings Mountain State Park, has a rich history. It has miles of forested trails perfect for hiking, two fishing lakes, and sits adjacent to Kings Mountain National Military Park, one of many national park Revolutionary War sites. The park also features a replica of a 19th century South Carolina yeoman farm which includes a barn, cotton gin and blacksmith/carpenter shop.
The Civilian Conservation Corps was instrumental in the development of many of South Carolina’s state parks. Buildings built by the CCC in the 1930’s are still in use at YMCA Camp Cherokee today.
YMCA Camp Cherokee, the resident camp, began in 1945. It was founded by the Rock Hill YMCA which is now known as the Upper Palmetto YMCA. For over 75 years, YMCA Camp Cherokee has been called the ‘best week of the summer’ and generations of former campers fondly remember their summers spent at camp.
