Summer Camp Coordinator

 

About Our Summer Camp & this ROLE:

Rutabaga Toy Library’s Nature Arts Summer Camp blends nature-based learning with creative expression for kids ages 5–12. Through small group experiences, we explore our local woods, parks, and playgrounds, then bring that inspiration back to our homebase to create art using natural and upcycled materials. Campers build confidence, friendships, and a deeper connection to the world around them—and our counselors play a huge part in that magic.

We’re hiring a Lead Counselor to work closely with our Assistant Director and camp team to bring each day to life. This role is ideal for someone with previous camp or teaching experience who is confident in managing group transitions, communicating with kids and families, and supporting a small team. The Lead Counselor will help implement daily programming, co-facilitate activities, and support a collaborative camp culture that values sustainability, creativity, and child-led exploration.

KEY Responsibilities:

  • Camper Leadership: Act as a daily group leader for a mixed-age camper group, facilitating art and nature-based activities and guiding campers through transitions, mealtimes, and free play.

  • Team Support & Supervision: Collaborate with the Assistant Director and help supervise Counselors and CITs. Step into a leadership role when the AD is off-site.
    Activity Implementation: Contribute to the development and execution of weekly camp themes by sharing your own ideas and interests (especially in art, nature, or early childhood ed).

  • Camper Relationships: Nurture positive relationships and connections among campers, promoting teamwork, empathy, and mutual respect within the group.

  • Behavior Guidance: Manage behaviors with fairness, understanding, and constructive support, helping campers build healthy habits like communication and kindness.

  • Space & Safety: Help prep and tidy the camp space, assist with supply setup and breakdown, and uphold safety protocols in outdoor and indoor settings.

  • Family Communication: Support parent check-in and check-out when needed, and help foster a welcoming experience for campers and their caregivers.

Desired skills & qualifications:

  • 2+ years of experience in summer camp or similar child-centered settings

  • Strong group management and natural leadership abilities

  • Creative and enthusiastic about nature, art, and open-ended play

  • Comfortable working outdoors and adapting in a fast-paced environment

  • Background in early childhood education, nature programs, or the arts is a plus

  • College students or recent graduate in education, environmental science, ecology, botany, or art—especially those passionate about outdoor learning and working with children

  • Enthusiasm for outdoor activities and an understanding of the challenges and rewards of working in a nature-intensive, summer camp environment.

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of building relationships with a diverse range of children (campers), families, and young adults (staff).

Employment Details:

  • This is a seasonal full-time position (Monday–Friday, 8am–4pm)

  • Pay is $18–20/hour, depending on experience

  • Includes 2-3 days of paid prep and training prior to the camp start 

  • 2025 camp season runs 10 weeks, June 16 through August 22 + June 12 & 13

  • Opportunities for continued work with our Nature Arts Days Off Camps and school-year programming

Why You’ll Love This Role:

  • Be part of a small, mission-driven team making a big impact in our community

  • Help lead a program that values sustainability, creativity, and connection to nature

  • Build your skills in youth programming, leadership, and collaborative planning

  • Work in a warm, supportive environment with lots of laughter, play, and purpose

  • If applicable, there may be an opportunity to enroll your child (ages 5–12) in camp at a discounted rate

How to Apply:

If you’re passionate about nature, the arts, and making a difference in children’s lives, we’d love to hear from you. Please complete this APPLICATION FORM, including attaching your resume. We’d plan to review candidates and make a final decision by the end of May 2025 or sooner. Thank you!

Rutabaga Toy Library is an equal opportunity employer and will not discriminate against an employee or applicant based on race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status or any other protected status under federal, state, or local law.