Wilderness Camp: Extended Day Counselor

ccetompkins; Town of Ithaca (NY); On-site; USD 20,457 - 29,136; Full time

Job summary

Cornell Cooperative Extension Tompkins County is seeking an Extended Day Wilderness Instructor to lead after-school campers in a safe, engaging outdoor program at 4-H Acres, Ithaca.

The role focuses on supervising youth ages 5-12, delivering hands-on wilderness living activities, and collaborating with a small team. Training is provided June 22–26, with camp running June 29–Sept 4, 2026; pay is $18/hour, 40 hours/week training week and 20 hours/week during camp.

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years or older.
• Must pass NYS Summer Camp screenings.
• Driver's license or reliable transportation.
• Attend staff training June 22–26, 2026.
• Commit to at least 5 weeks June 29–Sept 4, 2026.
• Experience with wilderness instruction or camp counseling for youth ages 6–16.
• Able to work outdoors in all weather.
• Ability to learn and convey skills efficiently.
• Inspire and relate positively with youth.
• Experience with primitive technologies or wilderness survival.

Responsibilities

• Arrive on time and ready for the day.
• Create experiential environmental immersion experiences for youth in wilderness living and outdoor skills.
• Lead daily and weekly activities; brainstorm and plan with team.
• Model appropriate outdoor gear and safety practices.
• Manage group energy and safety; respond to group needs.
• Collaborate with Extended-Day Camp Coordinator to plan and deliver programs.
• Provide constructive feedback within Instructor teams.
• Represent the organization to families and participants.
• Deliver high-adventure experiences with focus on safety and risk management.
• Fill in as Wilderness Instructor during the regular day if needed.
• Work with campers ages 5-12.

Skills

Wilderness instruction

Youth mentorship

Outdoor education

Group leadership

Risk management

Clear communication

Job description

Cornell Cooperative Extension Tompkins County is seeking an Extended Day Wilderness Instructor to lead after-school campers in a safe, engaging outdoor program at 4-H Acres, Ithaca.

The role focuses on supervising youth ages 5-12, delivering hands-on wilderness living activities, and collaborating with a small team. Training is provided June 22–26, with camp running June 29–Sept 4, 2026; pay is $18/hour, 40 hours/week training week and 20 hours/week during camp.