Seasonal Camp Lead Environmental Educator (Crane Estate) in Ipswich

Who We Are: Founded in 1891 by a group of visionary volunteers, The Trustees of Reservations (The Trustees) is the nation’s premier conservation and preservation organization. The Trustees’ preserves, for public use and enjoyment, properties of exceptional scenic, historic, and ecological value in Massachusetts. Our properties are open to all, and we thrive by involving as many people as possible in all that we do. We aim to protect special places for future generations to enjoy in perpetuity, and have helped protect more than 50,000 acres, including 27,000+ acres on more than 120 reservations that are open to the public.

Posting Information: Hourly Rate: $18.00-$20.00/hour. Rates are determined based on relevant experience. Hours per week: 35-40 hours/week, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM (Part‑time hours May 27 to June 6). Job Classification: Seasonal, Non‑Exempt. Job Type: Onsite. Duration: May‑August 2026. Location: The Crane Estate, Ipswich, MA.

What You’ll Do: As the Lead Environmental Educator, you will bring your expertise and passion for environmental education to work with Camp Educators and camp persona curriculum that leverages the deep resources of the coastal education department to support campers in learning about the coastal environment. SummerQuest—a vibrant day camp for 70 campers, ages 5-14, set on the expansive and stunning Crane Estate. Our place‑based activities immerse campers in the beauty of the coast, arts, culture, and more, fostering a deep respect for the environment. SummerQuest is designed for adventurous campers who love the outdoors, exploring the woods and shoreline, and connecting with the land. It’s a place where imagination, independent learning, and resilience thrive—rain or shine.

The Role: As the Lead Environmental Educator, you will coordinate daily routines, weekly themes, and periodic workshops for all staff that include educational activities, games and coastal crafts; exploring this historic property and its many wild habitats; learning about ocean science, sustainability, and ecology; art and craft making; and free play. We offer two weeks of collaborative paid training to prepare our staff for this complex, challenging, and rewarding work. Prior to camp, you will work with year‑round staff to prepare materials and spaces for staff training and the camp season, and assist leading training activities for staff. Specifically, you’ll:

• Support camp educators/counselors with activity development and group management.
• With support from senior staff and using the coastal education team’s resources, design camp curriculum and lead daily activities based on coastal habitats, sustainability, and the natural world.
• Provide floating support to camper groups and senior staff as needed.
• Provide leadership in the use of the expansive property in creative ways.
• Partner with Assistant Camp Director to mentor counselors and help them develop daily and weekly schedules.
• Supervise campers as needed to provide breaks for Camp Educators during the day.
• Inventory supplies and help prepare supply orders.
• Communicate with camper parents regarding camp questions and basic camper information.
• Perform daily camp staff chores to organize and prepare for each day.
• Meet periodically with Camp Director to evaluate experience and performance.

This is a Seasonal, non‑exempt position working 40 hours/week reporting directly to The Appleton Farms School and Youth Programs Manager/Camp Director.

What You’ll Need: Skills and Experience: Demonstrated skills in environmental education and curriculum development a must. Knowledge of or interest in outdoor education, coastal habitats, ocean science and sustainability. A bachelor's degree in environmental education, the sciences, education, or other relevant course of study is preferred. A special interest in outdoor education, especially in a coastal setting, and a great attitude about working outdoors in all conditions. Part‑time availability in late May and early June for planning and preparation. Experience working as a camp counselor, classroom teacher, informal educator, and/or childcare provider with children ages 4-14. A willingness to learn, bringing passion and enthusiasm to working with young people each day. A desire and ability to share your passion for the natural world with children from diverse backgrounds. Ability to lift 40 pounds.

Eligibility Criteria: Must be at least 21 years old. Full availability for camp staff training weeks (June 8‑18) and all nine weeks of camp (June 22–August 21), Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM; part‑time availability prior to June 8 to assist with camp preparation. Reliable transportation to work every day. CPR and Basic First Aid certifications required; an on‑site training option will be provided. A valid driver’s license, as well as a satisfactory driving record as outlined in The Trustees’ driving policy. Proof of physical exam within 18 months and required immunizations. Current authorization to work in the United States by the first day of employment. A satisfactory criminal background (CORI) check.

Commitment to Our SummerQuest Camp Staff: We pledge to create a workplace that fosters staff development and supports the mental, emotional, and social health of our camp staff. In 2025, we are refining training to help staff fully prepare to care for campers and keep them safe, as well as for the delivery of quality educational experiences throughout the season. We will consistently recognize the incredible work of our staff, and ensure that they feel seen, heard, and fully supported in this special work.

Transferable Skills Gained Working at Camp: Skills and training in environmental education, outdoor recreation, health and safety, and childhood development; communication; collaboration; critical thinking & problem solving; leadership; empathy; resiliency; work ethic.

Equal Opportunity and Diversity: The Trustees is a proud equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any protected status including, but not limited to, age, race, ethnicity, sex, gender, sexual preferences, nation of origin, religion, or disability status and strongly encourages applications from people of color, persons with varying abilities, women, and LGBTQ+ applicants. We aspire to reflect and effectively serve the residents and communities of Massachusetts, who are at the core of our mission.

Your Benefits: Sick Time: 40 hours of paid sick time upfront. Reciprocity: Employees have access to free and discounted admission and membership to more than 50 nearby museums and cultural institutions. Discounts: Enjoy free entry to all Trustees properties, discount event tickets, and discounted merchandise at our stores and on stays at our inns.