Summer Camp Counselor / Earth Educator

Job Description

Job Description

Job Overview

We are seeking a compassionate and experienced Summer Camp Counselor / Earth Educator to join our team at the Terra Schools and Terra Camps. You will play a critical role in creating a positive, emotionally safe, and enriching environment for our campers, ages 3 to 10. 

The ideal candidate will have a passion for working with children and a background in camp education. The Summer Camp Counselor / Earth Educator will be responsible for developing and implementing curriculum, working collaboratively with other camp staff, and ensuring the safety and fun of all campers. The successful candidate will have strong communication skills and a commitment to providing a fun and safe environment for all campers.

About Us

We are a multilingual private school and camp that combines small class sizes, whole-child development, and nature-based learning. 

We have two locations for camp. Terra Marin is located in Mill Valley, just north of the Golden Gate Bridge. Terra San Francisco is located in the Outer Richmond District of San Francisco, just south of the Golden Gate Bridge. During outdoor Earth Education days, we visit nearby scenic green spaces. If the outdoor location is more than walking distance from the school, we provide a shuttle for both students and teachers. 

Our work environment includes:

• Growth opportunities
• Diverse and international workforce
  

Job Responsibilities

• Oversee safety and instruction of youth ages 3-10 during weekly nature programs. 
• Maintain a happy environment for all campers.
• Lead youth on hikes and nature-based educational activities.
• Create and implement weekly curriculum with co-instructors. 
• Troubleshoot emotional or behavioral issues that may come up with campers. 
• Mentor Counselors-In-Training during programs and planning. 
• Ensure compliance with State and Federal regulations.
• Cultivate positive relationships with parents, guardians, and other stakeholders.
• Communicate with parents (in-person, via email / messaging, or via phone) when necessary. 
• Assist with organization, planning, and pre/post camp day duties (packing, clean-up, etc.)

Qualifications

• 2 years of experience teaching, tutoring, nannying, or mentoring children ages 3 to 10.
• High school diploma. Bachelor’s degree a plus. 
• Nature survival, animal tracking, mapping, and local flora and fauna identification a plus. 
• Excellent communication and professionalism with parents and youth.
• Strong class / group management skills. 
• First Aid & CPR certification a plus.

Mandatory Dates

Summer camp training: 

• June 8th to 13th

Camps in session: June 17th to August 2nd (with possible extension to Aug 16th)

Locations

Green spaces and beaches in and around Marin County and San Francisco. 

What’s Unique About Us

• Language Immersion. We believe young children are capable of learning a second and/or third language. Bilingualism & trilingualism also helps them develop empathy and cognitive skills, as well as an appreciation for diversity. 

• Reggio Emilia-inspired. Our children are center stage. Their interests and passions drive the topics discussed in class, while teachers facilitate their cognitive, social, and emotional skill acquisition.

• Nature-based Learning. At least once a week, children explore the outdoors through both open-ended and guided play to cultivate their sense of wonder and curiosity.

Why work with us

• Small Class Sizes & Ratios: We offer ratios that are smaller than those found in traditional camps and childcare centers (up to 8:1 student-teacher ratio). This fosters stronger and more intimate connections with children, families, and fellow educators. 
• Holistic Child Development: Our project-based, Reggio-inspired curriculum, outdoor classroom, and social and emotional learning curriculum are centered around nurturing the multiple intelligences of each child. 
• Diverse & Inclusive Community : Learn from a diverse and inclusive group of fellow educators, students, and families who value kindness. Over half of teachers and students are multi-ethnic, a third of families receive scholarships, and a third have lived abroad. 

Perks & Benefits

• Competitive pay, based on experience and location.
• Federal holidays and weekends off.
• Opportunity for professional growth, including potential advancement to be a Camp Director or After School Program Director.
• Covid-19 Safety: Free daily access to covid tests, masks, and hand sanitizer. 
• Free parking for employees in our parking lot and on the street.

Apply today

Join the Terra Schools as a Summer Camp Earth Educator and make a difference in the lives of our students. 

Apply today to be part of our collaborative, diverse, and innovative team.

Please note that the job description and requirements outlined above are subject to change as per the organization's needs and policies.