Outdoor Exploration Program Specialist - Paid Summer Internship

Looking for a paid summer internship that transforms the lives of young people?

If you have a passion for the great outdoors, building meaningful connections, and working in a beautiful natural setting, this is the opportunity for you!

About Us:

Camp Starfish is on a mission to create a transformative summer experience for children with emotional, learning, and behavioral challenges. As an Outdoor Exploration Program Specialist, you’ll lead campers in discovering the beauty and adventure of nature while fostering personal growth, confidence, and teamwork in a supportive and inclusive community.

Responsibilities:

• Plan and lead outdoor exploration activities, such as bug hunting, nature scavenger hunts, camping skills, and environmental education.
• Live alongside youth campers in a cabin, providing 24-hour supervision and assisting them in adjusting to camp life and group living.
• Create a physically and emotionally safe environment during outdoor adventures and other camp activities.
• Encourage campers to explore their surroundings, set personal goals, and build resilience through outdoor challenges.
• Fully engage in camp life, including participating in activities like campfires, boating, and team-building exercises.

Qualifications:

• Passion for outdoor activities, environmental education, and working with youth.
• Ideal candidate is a college student studying education, environmental science, psychology, or a related field.
• Strong mental resilience and ability to handle challenging but rewarding scenarios with empathy and composure.
• Experience with outdoor activities, camping, or wilderness skills is preferred but not required.
• Ability to work the entirety of the summer season, including staff training dates.
• Pass all background and reference checks required for seasonal employees working with vulnerable youth.

Skills:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Commitment to diversity and inclusion, and openness to restorative conversations with campers and staff.
• Physical stamina and comfort with outdoor activities in varying environmental conditions (e.g., heat, humidity, bugs, and uneven terrain).
• Ability to apply behavior management techniques to help campers navigate escalated situations and develop therapeutic coping skills.

Development and Fellowship Opportunities:

• Course credit available in psychology, environmental science, education, and more.
• Over 140 hours of hands-on training for working with diverse children.
• Paid internship with 15-month Fellowship eligibility for additional professional development.
• Weekly seminars covering topics like Core Values, Self-Regulation, and Restorative Justice.

Internship Includes:

• Immersive nature experience in a beautiful outdoor setting.
• Room and board included.
• Laundry service provided.
• Paid time off.
• Travel stipend for staff members traveling over 250 miles.
• Forge lifelong friendships in a supportive and growth-oriented community.

How to Apply:

Ready to inspire a love for the outdoors while making a lasting impact on young lives? Apply now to join a summer filled with exploration, personal growth, and transformative experiences for campers.

Camp Starfish is an equal-opportunity employer. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply. Join us in making this summer unforgettable for the campers who need it most!