2026 Summer Adventure Counselor

TOWNSHIP OF PLAINSBORO NOTICE OF VACANCY DATE OF POSTING: February 19, 2026 TITLE: Preserve Summer Adventure Counselor (seasonal) DEPARTMENT: Recreation and Community Services- Plainsboro Preserve DESCRIPTION: The Plainsboro Preserve is a 1000-acre nature preserve, located in Plainsboro, New Jersey, with over five miles of trails and a 50-acre lake. The Summer Counselor position is an 8-week term contract assignment. Summer Adventure Counselors support the effective delivery of educational lessons and activities for children ages 3 to 12 during the summer adventure programs. Counselors participate in staff training and rotate through various program duties. Duties include assisting with 3-12 y/o programs, assisting with lunch care, and leading summer program activities. RESPONSIBILITIES: Support program staff in the delivery of a eight-week summer nature adventure series, assisting with all aspects of daily operations and participant supervision. Assist with daily program setup and cleanup, and help maintain education materials, equipment, and teaching supplies in safe and organized condition. Participate fully in staff training sessions, meetings, and professional development activities. Co-supervise participants during lunch and transition periods to ensure a safe, structured, and positive environment. With guidance from senior staff, plan, prepare, and lead engaging indoor and outdoor activities that are age-appropriate, nature based, and aligned with program goals and core values. Promote a safe, inclusive, and respectful camp environment while actively supervising participants at all times. Follow and enforce all Plainsboro Township policies and procedures, including health, safety, and emergency protocols. Assist with camper check-in and check-out procedures, ensuring accurate attendance and secure dismissal. Support extended-day programming, including after-care activities and supervision as assigned. Perform additional duties as assigned by the Summer Adventure Director, Preserve Manager, or Director of Recreation. QUALIFICATIONS: 16 years of age or older. Outdoor recreation experience a plus. Teaching experience or experience working with children in a non-traditional setting. Ability to work effectively and productively as part of a team, indoors and outside, and under variable weather conditions. Flexibility and adaptability to work a schedule that meets the needs of the organization. Excellent communication skills with ease and enthusiasm for talking to individuals of all ages. Ability to always interact positively and professionally. Must possess the following traits and skills: Flexibility, dependability, critical thinking, problem-solving and decision-making skills, and teamwork Willingness to learn new skills and share knowledge with others. 16 years of age or older. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds and be able to carry, move and set up necessary supplies and equipment. Ability to plan, lead, and participate in program activities in a variety of indoor and/or outdoor settings, weather, and terrains. Essential Dates and Times Summer Adventure Counselor Training (attendance required) will be held the week of June 29th Summer Adventures series, that requires counselors, begins Monday, July 5th, and continues until Friday, August 21 (8 weeks total including training) 8:30am-3:30pm will be the standard schedule for summer adventures. Counselors will be required to work post care for an additional two hours from 3:30-5:30pm on a rotating basis. Plainsboro Preserve is located at 80 Scotts Corner Road, Cranbury, NJ 08512 #J-18808-Ljbffr Plainsboro