Summer Camp Seasonal Nature Specialist in Carnation, WA

Position: Onsite Temporary Camp Staff 

Location: Carnation, WA 

Duration:  June 19, 2025, to August 15, 2025   

GENERAL INTRODUCTION:  
Each position employed with CYO Camps helps to extend the ministry of the Archbishop in particular ways as outlined in the position description.  

GENERAL SUMMARY OF ESSENTIAL PURPOSE:  

Assists the program director in educating campers about the outdoors, wildlife and best practices in line with Ladato Si’.  

ESSENTIAL POSITION DUTIES:  

• Inspect trails, shelters, and surrounding areas before activities begin, ensuring paths are safe, clean, and ready for camper use. 

• Follow and enforce all established safety guidelines, including protocols around plants, wildlife, and trail use. Educate campers on respecting nature, including rules such as avoiding edible plants and handling wildlife with care. 

• Use the provided curriculum to lead age-appropriate games and activities, fostering curiosity and knowledge about the natural world. Adapt materials and activities as needed to fit camper needs and interests. 

• Lead engaging nature-based activities for campers of all ages, from hikes and scavenger hunts to animal identification and nature crafts. Educate campers about the local environment, including native plants, animals, and ecosystems. 

• Maintain a level of expertise in environmental and natural science topics. Stay updated on best practices in nature education to create enriching, memorable experiences for campers. 

• Keep the nature hut and teaching materials in good order. Ensure all items, such as field guides, craft supplies, and nature specimens, are organized, accessible, and ready for use each day. 

• Encourage camper participation and enthusiasm by using engaging, hands-on approaches to learning. Facilitate discussions, answer questions, and inspire campers to develop a love for the environment. 

• Assist with nature-related records and reports, including tracking camper attendance, maintaining incident logs, and updating inventory of supplies. 

• Maintain accurate program records. Complete and submit incident reports and other records as required to track camper progress and ensure safety. 

• Know and understand all emergency procedures associated with the camp program, including but not limited to evacuation routes, severe weather protocols, and first aid response. 

• Follow and enforce all camp safety guidelines at all times. Ensure that campers are aware of and adhere to safety protocols and that their whereabouts are known throughout each session. 

• Collaborate with camp staff in other areas as needed. Assist with camp-wide events, activities, and supervision to contribute to a positive and safe camp environment. 

• Support camper development and goal achievement. Foster an environment that helps campers reach the developmental goals set by camp leadership, encouraging skill-building, teamwork, and self-expression. 

• Incorporate faith-based learning into activities. Look for opportunities, both planned and spontaneous, to integrate Catholic faith lessons within craft activities, helping campers make meaningful connections and encouraging spiritual growth. 

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS:  

Primary:  

• Willingness and ability to support the mission of the Church by extending the ministry of the Archbishop.  

• Ability and desire to use God-given gifts and talents in service of the local Church.  

• A good example for youth in appearance, attitudes, as well as in moral, ethical and spiritual behavior. 

Education:  

• High School diploma, some college preferred  

Experience:  

• Experience leading nature-related activities, including instruction and safety protocols. 

• Experience working with children or youth in an educational or recreational setting. 

• Strong communication and group management skills to effectively engage and inspire campers in nature-based activities. 

• Knowledge of local ecosystems, wildlife, and plants relevant to the camp environment. 

• Ability to create and adapt age-appropriate nature activities that promote environmental awareness and respect for nature. 

 Other Elements:  

• Commitment to the mission and values of CYO.  

• Ability to work under pressure in time constraints.  

• Must be able to lift/unload/move food and supplies.  

• Willingness to pitch in with other general camp duties when needed, like moving luggage, and cleaning areas other than the nature hut.   

• Current CPR/First Aid and Food Handlers required or willingness to obtain prior to camp season.   

• Must be at least 18 years of age.  

Any offered salary is determined based on internal equity, internal salary ranges, market data, applicant’s skills and prior relevant experience, certain degrees and certifications.

Benefits: Eligible positions receive a comprehensive package of benefits including medical, dental, vision, life, accidental death and disability, long term disability, pension, 403(b), HSA, FSA, and generous sick leave, vacation and holidays.