Nature/Science Internship

To proceed with your application for this position, please complete the Predictive Index Behavioral Assessment linked below. Ensure you finish the assessment for your application to be reviewed.

Behavioral Assessment Link

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the general direction of the Summer Camp Director, the Nature/Science Intern is responsible for creating a safe environment with an appropriate curriculum and program for their assigned specialty area.

OUR CULTURE:

At the YMCA of Montclair, we strive to be the Employer of Choice, provide World-Class Service, and be the Charity of Choice. Our goal is to be a place where employees are empowered and excited to come to work. All staff ensure that members experience customer centric, individual attention each and every day. We strive to be the preferred partner to collaborate with others, identifying and meeting our community needs.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Build your skills in environmental science and education through interactive outdoor programming, conservation initiatives, and engaging STEM-based learning experiences.
• Assist in assuring the safety and health of all campers in accordance with applicable NJ state and ACA requirements through proper supervision. Actively participate with all children.
• Assist, implement, and evaluate age-appropriate lesson plans on a weekly basis.
• Maintain all equipment and property, minimizing damage. Inform director if new equipment is needed or equipment is in need of repair.
• Assist in packing up equipment, materials, supplies, etc. and camp close down at the end of camp season. Submit inventory of supplies packed to Camp Director.
• Communicate positively and enthusiastically with campers, parents, staff and volunteers.
• Treat each child and parent with dignity and respect. Show attentiveness to all parent and camper issues.
• Maintain a safe work environment, free of clutter, debris, and hazardous conditions.
• Report all accidents and incidents involving self, participants, guests or other employees.
• Familiar with and able to implement emergency procedures.
• Ensure cleanliness of facility or property.
• Assist in planning and implementation of special camp-wide theme programs, including Family Days and Open Houses.
• Recognize and respond to potential problems in group or individual discipline problems in accordance with camp policies and procedures.
• Evaluate current season, program, and self. Make recommendations for next season.
• Attend and actively participate in staff trainings and meetings.
• Assist during waterfront activities by serving as a lookout, swim instructor, boater, buddy, or clipboard counselor.
• Assist at assigned bus stop with campers and parents.
• Demonstrate and model the YMCA's four core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.
• Exhibit personal and professional behavior in a manner consistent with the best interest of the Association, so as not to bring discredit to the Association.
• Perform such other job-related duties as may be periodically assigned by the Supervisor.
• Cooperate; work effectively and congenially with all YMCA staff members, volunteers, and members of the Association.
• Attend required Abuse Risk Management training and adhere to procedures related to managing high-risk activities and supervising members and participants.
• Follow employee and volunteer screening requirements and use screening instruments to screen for abuse risk. Provide employees and volunteers with on-going supervision and training related to abuse risk.
• Respond quickly to policy and procedure violations using the Y's disciplinary procedures and respond seriously and confidentially to reports of suspicious and inappropriate behaviors and follow mandated reporting requirements.
• Communicate to all employees and volunteers the Y's commitment to protect our members from abuse.
• Ensure unused rooms and closets remain locked; routinely monitor high-risk locations (locker rooms and rest-rooms), etc.

LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES:

• Emotional Maturity
• Communication
• Critical Thinking and Decision Making
• Relationships
• Collaboration

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Previous experience in camping, recreation, teaching, childcare, or physical education as an older camper or staff member is preferred.
• All interns working ACA accredited camps are required to have 24 hours of pre-camp training as a condition of employment.
• Knowledge of and commitment to the mission of the YMCA and its capacity to build strong kids, families and communities. The ability to articulate and model YMCA's four core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibilities are essential.
• Current Montclair State University student working toward a bachelor's degree.
• Must have a CPR/AED and First Aid Certification OR get certified within 90 days of employment.
• Commit to 2 full days and ½ days for the other depending on availability.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

This work requires the following physical activities: climbing, bending, stooping, kneeling, twisting, reaching, sitting, standing for extended periods of time, walking, lifting, finger dexterity, grasping, repetitive motions, talking, feeling, hearing, and visual acuity (with the aid of glasses if necessary). The work is performed primarily outdoors and may require occasional travel. Must be able to lift 50 lbs.

WORK SCHEDULE: Commit to 2 full days per week and/or 1/2 days

LOCATION: 131 Germantown Rd, West Milford, NJ 07480

This will be an unpaid, credit-based internship opportunity for current students seeking hands-on experience in outdoor education, youth development, and camp programming.