Program Specialist - Canoe Activities

About Mass Audubon


Mass Audubon is the largest nature-based conservation organization in New England. Founded in 1896 by two women who fought for the protection of birds, Mass Audubon carries on their legacy by focusing on the greatest challenges facing the environment today: the loss of biodiversity, inequitable access to nature, and climate change. With the help of our 160,000 members and supporters, we protect wildlife, conserve and restore resilient land, advocate for impactful environmental policies, offer nationally recognized education programs for adults and children, and provide endless opportunities to experience the outdoors at our wildlife sanctuaries. Explore, find inspiration, and take action at massaudubon.org.


About Mass Audubon Camps


Imagine a place where children can develop their interest in the outdoors, play together, and gain comfort and confidence in the natural world. That place is Mass Audubon's summer camp programs. Each day, campers explore and learn in nature, meet new friends, play games, and have fun! Do you want to share your love of nature and build community? Consider joining our camp staff!


About This Position
Ipswich River Nature Camp is seeking individuals to support experiential nature-based learning for campers through leading canoe activities. We aim to promote positive youth development, stewardship for the environment, and a respectful and inclusive safe space for all our campers.


Duties & Responsibilities

• Assist with development and teaching of pre-camp and in-service staff training related to both general camp and canoe program activities
• Design and lead day-to-day activities in canoe program and support other program activities for campers.; support and monitor camp staff to carry out safe, educational activities related to canoe program
• Regularly inspect, maintain, and alert leadership staff of any issues or needs for education program equipment, supplies, and/or materials
• Participate in all camp activities such as drop off and pick up, opening and closing circles, all camp games, and camp set up and clean up
• Abide by and enforce camp and program policies and protocols
• Create and maintain a physically and emotionally safe environment for all campers and staff; make independent safety decisions when needed
• Utilize First Aid/CPR skills as necessary according to camp's standing medical orders

Qualifications
At Mass Audubon, our highest priority is finding the best candidate for the job. Research has shown that people of color and women are less likely to apply for jobs if they don't believe they meet every one of the qualifications described in a job description. We encourage you to apply, even if you don't believe you meet every one of our described qualifications or have a less traditional background.


Required qualifications as per Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MA DPH) regulations, American Camp Association standards and Mass Audubon Policy:

• At least 21 years of age
• Current Lifeguard Certification
• Certification in Basic Water Rescue and Small Craft Safety-Canoe
• Ability to paddle a canoe and lift canoes on and off of canoe racks
• Experience assisting or leading canoe activities for children or youth, or any equivalent combination of education and related experience
• Hold current First Aid and CPR certifications or participate in Mass Audubon provided training to obtain certification prior to the beginning of camp
• Provide documented proof of immunity or vaccination record as mandated by MADPH; complete camp health form and waiver
• Willing to be outdoors for several hours per day in most weather conditions
• Ability to physically access sanctuary terrain and trails easily by foot
• Ability to effectively interact with others, especially children, in camp's youth-centered environment
• Ability to adapt to changes in schedule and work assignment

Desired Qualifications

• Strong interest or related education experience in Environmental Studies, Biology, Conservation, Education, or related field
• Familiarity with regional natural history, wildlife conservation, or other applicable natural history topics

Work Schedule


Camp staff training will be held from June 15th through June 18th, 2026. Camp runs from June 22nd through August 14th, 2026. Hours for this position are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM.


Compensation and Benefits
This position's pay range is $18.30 - $21.00 per hour; actual pay will be determined based on experience level, qualifications relative to position requirements, and location of the position. This is not a benefits eligible position.


Perks of Working at Mass Audubon

• Free First Aid/CPR training offered in June
• "Pro- Deal" discounts on outdoor clothing, equipment and more at Mass Audubon's shops
• Network and collaboration with staff from multiple Mass Audubon departments, including Conservation Science and Education
• Hands-on training in natural history, group leadership, and behavior management (as applicable)

Training Requirements
All Mass Audubon Camp Staff undergo mandatory training prior to interacting with campers. Training includes: Natural History, Lesson Planning, Behavior Management, Games, and more.


Other Requirements


Employees must successfully complete a CORI and SORI Background Check and a Motor Vehicle Record (if applicable) is required.


Mass Audubon's Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Justice


Mass Audubon embraces diversity and equal opportunity in a serious way. We are dedicated to forming a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. People of color are strongly encouraged to apply.


Mass Audubon's mission is to "protect the nature of Massachusetts for people and for wildlife" by building a strong coalition of employees, volunteers, and community members. We recognize that the environmental movement and field of conservation have been affected by societal systems that have limited opportunity and access for many people. As a result, Mass Audubon is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. We are engaged in an ongoing process of organizational assessment and change, designed to remove barriers and create a workplace where all forms of diversity are recognized and valued.


Equal Employment Opportunity Statement


Mass Audubon is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. Mass Audubon prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.