NATURE SPECIALIST

Position Title: Nature Counselor - Overnight Camp

Reports To: Program Director

Department: Camp/Property/Outdoor

Status: Exempt

Location: Summer Resident Camp – Seven Hills/Timbercrest

JOB DESCRIPTION

ABOUT GIRL SCOUTS:

Are you mission-driven, looking to work in a dynamic team environment, and influence the lives of girls? If so, take the time to check out Girl Scouts of Western New York.

Since 1912, Girl Scouts has empowered girls to develop the skills and the voice to become successful and productive citizens. Girl Scouting builds girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place.

If you’d like to be part of this exciting, empowering, and valuable experience, we encourage you to apply. We look forward to hearing from you

POSITION SUMMARY:

To provide programs in nature that will help campers to understand and live up to the Girl Scout Promise and Law and to develop an appreciation for and enjoy the outdoors. Actual salary will be based on applicant’s experience

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of the nature activity area and equipment.
• Must plan/develop and implement programs that are in conjunction with the camp program (camp brochure) and GSWNY’s mission and camp goals.
• Develops and enforces safety measures for the nature area by following GSUSA Activity Check Points, New York State Health Department (NYSHD) and the American Camp Association (ACA).
• Develops professional goals for the summer that will help support and meet GSWNY’s mission and camp goals.
• Maintains a well-equipped first aid kit in the nature area.
• Reports all incidents/accidents promptly to the supervisor or health supervisor.
• Responsible for planning and implementing nature activities within budget. Places supply orders to the Program Director.
• When not acting as nature counselor will live in tent/cabin unit as a unit counselor and assist with all unit activities. (female staff only)
• Attends staff meetings as scheduled/necessary.
• Required to stay on the property during hours of operation (Sunday 10:00am to Friday 8:00pm)
• Accepts other responsibilities as deemed necessary by the Program Director/Camp Director
• Other duties may be assigned as needed. GSWNY maintains the right to add, change or alter the functions of this position at any time.

Additional Requirements:

• Ability to handle sensitive information and maintain confidentiality;
• Strong analytical skills and problem-solving abilities;
• Ability to project a high level of professionalism at all times;
• Ability to articulate organizational mission and its importance with passion and conviction, and in a manner that resonates with the listener;
• Commitment to diversity and ability to interact with diverse populations;
• Strong time management skills with ability to work independently and effectively prioritize duties and tasks.
• Capacity to manage stress effectively and work well under pressure;
• Excellent oral and written communication skills and the ability to communicate clearly;
• Proven capability to work in a collaborative, service-focused environment;
• Capacity to work well with others in a congenial and effective manner;
• Ability to effectively manage and foster relationships with council staff, volunteers within the camp community;
• Subscribe to the principles of the Girl Scout Movement and become a registered member of GSUSA;
• Successfully pass the required background checks at hire and thereafter;
• Maintain reliable transportation to and from home and work;
• If travel is required, must possess a valid driver’s license, meet minimum state auto insurance requirements, and meet the insurance carrier’s requirements for coverage.
• Assist the campers in emergency situations.
• Lift 35 pounds.
• Possess strength and endurance required to maintain constant supervision.
• Demonstrate sensitivity to the needs of campers.
• Demonstrate enthusiasm, sense of humor, patience, self-control and ability to adapt well to changing situations.
• Participate in structured and unstructured activities.
• Accept and follow directions both in verbal and written form.

Hours & Travel:

• Required to stay on the property during hours of operation (Sunday 10:00am to Friday 8:00pm)
• Must be willing to work in an outdoor setting and in inclement weather.

Experience & Qualifications:

• Willingness to abide by the policies and practices of the Girl Scouts of Western New York Inc.
• Minimum age: 18 (per New York State Health Department)
• Must have the knowledge to organize and teach nature and/or have experience and/or certification in related fields (i.e.: environmental sciences, forestry, etc.)
• High School diploma or the equivalent.
• Current certification in Responding to Emergencies and CPR or individual is willing to complete certification course during designated training day.
• Certified Sex Offender Registry and Criminal Background Checks will be completed for personnel file.
• Desire and ability to work with and relate to children and peers in an outdoor environment.
• Prior camp experience and/or interest in the Girl Scout Camping program helpful.
• Willingness to place the needs of girls and camp above personal desires.
• Good health and stamina necessary to work in the camp setting.
• The acceptance of irregular work hours.
• The acceptance and understanding that employment is at a resident (overnight) camp.

GIRL SCOUT MEMBERSHIP:

All Employees of Girl Scouts must maintain an active, annual membership in Girl Scouts of Western New York. This membership must be renewed annually, and all newly hired employees are expected to enroll with GSWNY within the first 30 days of their employment.

BENEFITS:

[SEASONAL EMPLOYEES]

Girl Scouts of Western New York seasonal camps are subject to the Federal and New York State exemption laws under Section 13(a)(3) of the Fair Labor Standards Act. Seasonal staff working at camp may be paid in accordance with this exemption. Seasonal employees are not eligible for company-sponsored group benefits.

GSWNY is also very grateful to have many partnerships offering special deals and incentives at local businesses to GSWNY employees throughout Western New York.

HOW TO APPLY:
Interested parties should submit their resume and application by visiting the Girl Scouts of Western New York application system website at: [ATS LINK].

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY FOR ALL:

Girl Scouts of Western New York celebrates diversity in all forms and is committed to creating an inclusive, collaborative and supportive environment for all. All employment decisions are based qualifications, merit, performance and the needs of the organization. As an equal opportunity employer, GSWNY does not discriminate on the basis of any qualified applicant’s race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status or any other groups or persons protected by federal, state or local law.