2026 Summer Adventure Counselor

Plainsboro; Plainsboro Township (NJ); On-site; USD 17,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

The Township of Plainsboro is seeking a Seasonal Summer Adventure Counselor to support the Plainsboro Preserve summer programs for children aged 3 to 12. This 8-week term involves assisting with activities, training, and leading engaging outdoor and indoor program sessions.

Responsibilities include supervising campers, preparing materials, and ensuring a safe, inclusive environment. Training occurs the week of June 29, with program runs from July 5 to August 21, 8:30am–3:30pm, plus after-care on

Qualifications

• Outdoor recreation experience is preferred.
• Experience teaching or supervising children is desired.
• Ability to work as part of a team in varying weather conditions.
• Strong communication with participants and staff is essential.
• Flexibility to adapt to a rotating schedule and duties.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds as needed.

Responsibilities

• Assist with delivery of 8-week summer nature programs for ages 3–12.
• Support with daily setup/cleanup and maintain teaching materials.
• Participate in staff training and meetings.
• Supervise participants during lunch and transitions.
• Plan and lead age-appropriate, nature-based activities.
• Maintain safe, inclusive camp environment and follow policies.
• Assist with check-in/check-out and after-care as needed.
• Support extended-day programming and other duties as assigned.

Skills

Outdoor recreation

Teaching experience

Teamwork

Communication skills

Flexibility/adaptability

Physical stamina

Job description

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