Camp Counselor

Camp Counselor

Classification: Full-time, Seasonal, Hourly/Non-Exempt

Supervisor: Camp Director

Schedule: ~8:00am-4:30pm, Monday-Friday, June 1 - August 17 (week of July 4 off)

Compensation: $13.25/hr ($14/hr for returning staff)

Benefits: 1-year KNC household membership, 10% discount at Trailhead gift shop, access to robust employee assistance program

Make a Difference Outdoors This Summer

Join the Kalamazoo Nature Center (KNC) and spend your summer helping kids fall in love with nature We're not your average camp - at KNC, everything we do is about connecting people with nature and inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards. Every staff member, from our counselors to our support staff, shares a passion for the outdoors and a belief that time in nature changes lives.

If you're looking for a fun, meaningful job where you can grow your leadership skills, gain hands-on teaching experience, and be part of something bigger, KNC Camp is the place for you.

About the Kalamazoo Nature Center

KNC is a nonprofit organization on 1,500 acres of rolling woodlands, prairies, and wetlands - named one of the top nature centers in the country. With over 15 miles of scenic trails and a mission to welcome and inspire people to discover, enjoy, value, and care for nature, KNC offers an unforgettable setting for campers and staff alike.

We're also proud to reflect the diverse community we serve. We believe the outdoors is for everyone and are committed to building a welcoming, inclusive team.

About the Role

KNC Camp Counselors are the heart of our summer camp program - creating safe, enriching, and joy-filled experiences that spark curiosity and confidence in young explorers. Each counselor leads a small group (up to 10 campers per week), blending fun and learning through hands-on outdoor adventures, games, crafts, and nature discovery.

You'll work closely with fellow counselors and leadership staff to deliver creative programming that helps children connect deeply with nature - and with each other.

No Experience? No Problem

You don't need to be an expert in nature, science, or childcare to thrive here. We'll teach you everything you need to know What matters most is your enthusiasm, curiosity, and willingness to grow.

If you love being outdoors, enjoy working with people, and want to make a positive impact, you can succeed at KNC. Many of our best counselors started with little or no experience - and left with valuable leadership, teaching, and teamwork skills they'll use for years to come.

What You'll Do

• Lead and supervise groups of campers in outdoor activities, nature play, and educational programs.
• Create and maintain a safe, inclusive environment for all participants.
• Work from weekly schedules and lead activities that align with KNC's mission and camp themes.
• Support registration, pick-up/drop-off, and daily transitions.
• Collaborate with fellow staff to organize special events and group programs.
• Maintain and sanitize equipment and materials.
• Communicate regularly with supervisors and complete required reports.
• Model respect, curiosity, teamwork, and stewardship for campers.
• Other duties as assigned by the Camp Director.

What We're Looking For

• Must be at least 18 years old by the first week of camp.
• Passion for working with children and connecting people with nature.
• Commitment to inclusivity and environmental stewardship.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather and terrain.
• Positive, flexible attitude and reliable teamwork skills.
• Willingness to commit to the full camp season.
• Previous experience with children, camps, or outdoor education is a plus, but not required.
• Lifeguard certification is preferred.

Working at KNC

KNC is a place where people launch careers in outdoor education, recreation, childcare, and leadership. You'll gain real-world experience in teaching, team collaboration, and environmental interpretation - all while spending your days outdoors surrounded by forest, field, and laughter.

Expect a fast-paced, energetic environment that's both challenging and deeply rewarding. You'll go home each day tired but inspired, knowing you made a difference.

Physical & Environmental Conditions

• Nature based camp means walking several miles per day on hilly terrain and rustic trails.
• The work is outdoors in hot, humid Michigan weather.
• Work environment may be loud with active groups of children.

The Kalamazoo Nature Center provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind, in accordance with federal, state, and local laws.

Join us this summer and help inspire the next generation to love, protect, and care for the natural world

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