Part-Time Summer Camp Assistant Naturalist - Shaver's Creek Environmental Center

The Pennsylvania State University; University Park (PA, TX); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking an enthusiastic Assistant Camp Naturalist for a summer camp at Shaver's Creek. This role offers the chance to work outdoors, engage with children, and develop essential skills in leadership and communication. As a camp naturalist, you will assist in managing groups, lead activities, and create memorable experiences for campers. Ideal candidates will have a passion for nature and education, with opportunities for professional development and certifications in First Aid and CPR. Join us for a summer of growth, connection, and adventure!

Benefits

Professional development sessions

Internship credit potential

First Aid and CPR certifications

Outdoor nature activities

Peer connection opportunities

Qualifications

• Candidates should have strong leadership and communication skills.
• Experience with children and outdoor activities is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Assist with group management and lead nature-focused activities.
• Ensure safety and effective communication with campers.
• Participate actively in planning and daily camp activities.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Creativity

Adaptability

Education

High School Diploma

First Aid Certification

CPR Certification

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

• Current Penn State employees (faculty, staff, technical service, or students) should log in to Workday to complete the internal application process. Do not apply here; apply internally through Workday.
• Current Penn State students (not previously employed at the university) seeking employment should log in to Workday to complete the student application process. Do not apply here; apply internally through Workday.
• Non-employees and non-students should click "Apply" and complete the external application process.

Note: Approval for remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed, regardless of work location. For more information, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND REQUIREMENTS:

Assistant Camp Naturalist

Assistant camp naturalists will gain techniques, skills, and hands-on experience supporting group leaders during nature-focused summer camp at Shaver's Creek. Responsibilities include assisting with group management, leading activities, singing, reading stories, and supporting campers' needs. This role offers opportunities to work outdoors with children, design activities, set goals, and develop leadership skills.

Details:

• Work at Shaver's Creek for 47-50 hours weekly, mostly outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Access to bathrooms typically every 2-3 hours; gear weighs 10-15 lbs and is carried on you.
• Pay is $9.50/hour for the first 40 hours; overtime is time and a half. Estimated summer earnings: about $4,300 before taxes.
• Housing may be available for out-of-area applicants on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Training occurs Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., in early June, including certifications in First Aid, CPR, AED, and Epi-Pens (certification not required beforehand).
• Training covers child working techniques, activities, lesson planning, emergency procedures, and camp routines.
• Camp hours vary by day, including early mornings, evenings, and some overnight stays (up to three times per summer).
• A mid-season week of professional development occurs around July 7, 2025, with adjusted hours and activities.
• Ideal candidates can commit to June 2 - August 2, 2025, including training and the full camp season. Partial commitments are discouraged but some flexibility may be possible with prior notice.

Benefits:

• Develop critical skills: thinking, creativity, communication, leadership, problem-solving, adaptability.
• Build lasting peer connections.
• Participate in professional development sessions.
• Potential internship credit.
• Experience outdoor nature activities.
• Learn mindfulness and presence techniques.
• Obtain certifications in First Aid, AED, CPR, and Epi-Pens.
• Gain confidence and personal growth.

Pre-Season Employment Steps (Remote):

• Complete application, interview, and accept employment offer.
• Fulfill all hiring steps, including PA clearances (criminal background, child abuse, FBI fingerprinting).
• Complete required online PSU training and review pre-training materials.
• Create a personal wellness plan.
• Submit all forms by deadlines.

On-Site Responsibilities During Camp:

• Ensure safety and effective communication.
• Uphold PSU and Shaver's Creek policies.
• Participate actively in planning and daily activities.
• Lead games, activities, songs, and exercises.
• Set and work toward goals, show appreciation, and maintain energy and patience.
• Provide medical care and record keeping.
• Assist with camper journals and logistics, including the LIT assistant role.

Application Process:

Submit your application via: https://hr.psu.edu/careers

1. Complete application form
2. Include a cover letter explaining your interest and relevant skills
3. Provide a resume with work history and experiences
4. List three references with contact details

Required clearances include:

• PA State Police Criminal Background Check
• PA Child Abuse History Clearance
• FBI Criminal Background Check

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