Job Opportunities
at North Shore Nature Programs

Lead Counselor

Job Description

The Lead Counselor position is a full-time (40hr/wk) seasonal position. As Lead Counselor, you will plan and lead daily activities for campers ranging in age from 6-14 years old at a nature-based summer program. These programs emphasize exploration, group cooperation, nature study, and experiential learning. Activities could include: short hikes, fishing, shelter building, inclusive games, art, and nature crafting. Lead counselors will be confident in their interactions with children, as well as parents, and will be eager to share their joy of nature with all program participants. Lead counselors will work in conjunction with the Program Director and Assistant Counselors to provide a safe and optimal experience for all children under their supervision.

Our highest priority is finding the best candidate for the job. Research has shown that people of color and women are less likely to apply for jobs if they don't believe they meet every one of the qualifications described in a job description. We encourage you to apply, even if you don't believe you meet every one of our described qualifications or have a less traditional background.

Required Qualifications

Be at least 18 years of age.
High school degree or relevant work experience required; working towards a B.A. or B.S. in education or life sciences and/or equivalent work experience is preferred.
Experience working with children.
Enthusiasm, creativity, and caring personality.
Comfort working outside in all types of summer weather.
Ability to work cooperatively and independently.
Sense of humor and willingness to step out of your comfort zone.
Ability to hike 1-2 miles every day and the physical capacity to participate in a variety of games and outdoor exploration activities.

Desired Qualifications

A basic knowledge of local ecosystems and ability to identify common animals found in the woods and water of Massachusetts is preferred (NSNP will provide training prior to summer sessions beginning).
American Red Cross CPR/First Aid certification (if not currently certified, NSNP can help find a class and will compensate you for the fee).

Skills/Experience You Will Gain

Learn effective behavior management techniques for children (and adults!)
Learn about local ecosystems and the plants and animals that make them home.
Develop interpersonal skills through collaborative work and interactions with campers and parents.
Learn effective and engaging activities that can be used with children in a variety of settings.
A commitment from NSNP to assist you in your career/schooling in any way we can during the non-summer months!

Hours

Monday – Friday; 8am-4pm

Dates

Training Days: June 16-20

Camp Weeks:

June 23-June 27

June 30-July 3 (July 4 paid holidays)

July 7-11

July 14-18

July 21-25

July 28 – August 1

August 4-8

August 11-15

Wages

$19-21/hr based on experience. No benefits are available.

To Apply

Email cover letter, resume, and three references to Andrew Prazar: andrew@northshorenatureprograms.com

Assistant counselor

Job Description

The Assistant Counselor position is a full-time (40hr/wk) seasonal position. As assistant counselor, you will help plan and lead daily activities for campers ranging in age from 6-14 years old at a nature-based summer program. These programs emphasize exploration, group cooperation, nature study, and experiential learning. Activities could include: short hikes, fishing, shelter building, inclusive games, art, and nature crafting. Assistant counselors will be confident in their interactions with children, as well as parents, and will be eager to share their joy of nature with all program participants. Assistant counselors will work in conjunction with the Program Director and Lead Counselors to provide a safe and optimal experience for all children under their supervision.

Required Qualifications

Be at least 15 years of age.
Enthusiasm, creativity, and caring personality.
Comfort working outside in all types of summer weather.
Ability to work cooperatively and independently.
Sense of humor and willingness to step out of your comfort zone.
Ability to hike 1-2 miles every day and the physical capacity to participate in a variety of games and outdoor exploration activities.

Desired Qualifications

Experience working with children.

Skills/Experience You Will Gain

Learn effective behavior management techniques for children (and adults!)
Learn about local ecosystems and the plants and animals that make them home.
Develop interpersonal skills through collaborative work and interactions with campers and parents.
Learn effective and engaging activities that can be used with children in a variety of settings.
A commitment from NSNP to assist you in your career/schooling in any way we can during the non-summer months!

Hours

Monday – Friday; 8am-4pm

Dates

Training Days: June 16-20

Camp Weeks:

June 23-June 27

June 30-July 3 (July 4 paid holidays)

July 7-11

July 14-18

July 21-25

July 28 – August 1

August 4-8

August 11-15

Wages

$17-19/hr based on experience. No benefits are available.

To Apply

Email cover letter, resume, and three references to Andrew Prazar: andrew@northshorenatureprograms.com

Counselor in Training Program

Ages 14-16

Our Counselor in Training Program is designed for those campers interested in expanding their
leadership skills with an eye towards becoming an assistant counselor in the future. The goals
of our CIT program are to:

Instill a solid work ethic
Foster leadership skills
Provide a basic education in local ecology
Improve and expand wilderness skills
Teach introductory behavior management techniques
Allow an opportunity for teenagers to be themselves and connect with like-minded peers!

Due to an increased demand for our CIT program, we have made some changes for the
summer of 2025!

This year we will be asking CITs to commit to two consecutive weeks of work. This will allow
each cohort to learn, practice, and receive feedback on various skills as well as their
performance under the supervision of a dedicated staff person. During these two weeks, the
CITs will participate in group training and team-building sessions, work individually with groups
of campers and counselors, and have dedicated time each week for activities of their choice.

This year’s CIT sessions are:

Weeks 1 and 2: June 23 - July 3
Weeks 3 and 4: July 7 - 18
Weeks 5 and 6: July 21 - August 1
Weeks 7 and 8: August 4 - 15

Application Information

We will only accept applicants who can commit to a full two week session.
We will be limiting enrollment to 6 CITs per session.
Returning CITs may sign up for additional sessions as space allows.
Applicants should email Andrew Prazar with a brief statement regarding their interest as well as
their preferred session dates.