Naturalist

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Salary: $800+ per week, full time with benefits and optional on-site housing

Season: 2026/27 School Year, Late August to Late May

position SUMMARY:

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Naturalist leads programs based on the principles of conservation biology, fosters environmental awareness, emulates YMCA core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility and is aligned with the California state framework and the next generation science standards.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Research, write, and update lesson plans appropriate to program goals and aligned with state and national education standards; conduct natural science lessons establishing and utilizing responsive teaching situations; lead interpretive field activities in a variety of ecosystems.
• Engage staff, volunteers, and participants within the environmental science arena at Camp Campbell; provide opportunities to learn.
• Prepare and maintain nature lab exhibits and provide care for live animals.
• Conduct ongoing training and supervision of cabin leaders.
• Plan, organize and evaluate curriculum and instructional activities related to volunteer leadership development.
• Expanded and new program opportunities and field lessons each year.
• Attend meetings and trainings necessary to be successful.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• BA or BS preferably in the field of science or environmental studies and/or equivalent relevant experience
• Enthusiastic, Fun, Great Personality.
• Ability to effectively interact with participants, parents, and staff.
• Prior work experience in a day camp or similar work environment is preferred.
• Certifications: CPR, First Aid, Child Abuse Prevention & Risk Management. (can be obtained when hired)
• Experience working with marginalized populations and Spanish fluency strongly preferred.
• Available for weekly shift rotation containing some evenings.

We serve a diverse population of students and strive towards having our staff team reflect those we serve. We recognize that role models and educators come from all backgrounds. If you are passionate about making a difference we encourage you to apply even if you do not meet all of the qualifications.

Contact Deepak Dathatri with any questions at deepak.dathatri@ymcasv.org