Summer Camp Naturalist (Counselor)

Job Title: Summer Camp Naturalist

Organization: Tree Frog Treks
Location: San Francisco, CA (Various public park locations)
Camp Dates: June 1st – August 14th, 2026

Overview:

Spend your summer outdoors and engage young campers in science, nature, and exploration with Tree Frog Treks! As a Summer Camp Naturalist, you’ll play an integral role in leading groups of young adventurers on exciting, nature-based activities while teaching them about the environment in a hands-on way. Our summer camp runs Monday through Friday, from June 9th to August 15th. Priority will be given to candidates available for the entire summer season. Please note, Tree Frog Treks is a day camp, and housing is not provided for naturalists in the Bay Area.

Programming:

At Tree Frog Treks Summer Camp, campers spend their day outdoors, exploring a wide range of science and nature topics under the guidance of our expert naturalists. Groups of 12–16 campers will be supported by two naturalists, and they may either stay at basecamp locations or embark on adventures across parks in San Francisco. The naturalist team is responsible for camper safety, effective communication with parents, and delivering our comprehensive science curriculum.

Responsibilities:

• Lead small groups of campers (ages 4-10) on outdoor excursions, facilitating hands-on learning in nature and science activities.
• Safeguard camper well-being by maintaining constant supervision and enforcing camp safety protocols.
• Assist with delivering our established science curriculum, incorporating creativity and enthusiasm to keep campers engaged.
• Foster a fun and inclusive atmosphere where campers feel safe and encouraged to explore the outdoors.
• Lead engaging discussions about wildlife, ecology, and conservation while using scientific materials responsibly.
• Participate in and lead group games, hikes, and other outdoor activities.
• Handle live reptiles and amphibians in a safe and respectful manner.
• Communicate with parents about camper progress and any important updates.
• Collaborate with fellow naturalists and camp staff to maintain a positive camp environment.

Requirements:

• Age/experience: Must be a rising sophomore in college or at least 20 years old with relevant experience.
• education: Bachelor’s Degree (or in progress) in a related field (e.g., Environmental Science, Education, Biology, Arts, etc.), or significant experience in environmental education or working with children.
• Skills:
• Teaching experience, preferably in an outdoor or science-related setting.
• Ability to maintain a positive attitude and high energy throughout the day.
• Comfortable carrying supplies (backpack, scientific tools) and engaging in hiking, walking, and other outdoor activities rain or shine.
• Must be willing to handle live animals respectfully and safely.
• Creative thinking and problem-solving skills to enhance the camp curriculum.
• Physical Requirements: Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions, walking, hiking, and carrying a daypack.

Compensation:

• Summer Camp Naturalists: Starting at $26/hour. Your schedule may include overtime depending on your assignment.
• Half-Day Camp Staff (ages 4-5):
• Weekly pay: $780–$1,040 (depending on whether you work aftercare).
• Full-Day Camp Staff (Elementary (Ages, 5-10):
• Weekly pay: $1,150–$1,250 (including overtime).

Schedule:

• Half-Day Camps (Ages 4-5):
• Without Aftercare: 8:30 am – 2:30 pm (Mon–Fri).
• With Aftercare: 8:30 am – 5:00 pm (Mon–Fri), including approximately 5 weeks of aftercare coverage.
• Full-Day Camps (Ages 5-10):
• Schedule: 8:30 am – 5:30 pm (Mon–Fri), with a minimum of 9.5 hours per day.

Location & Commuting:

Tree Frog Treks operates in various public parks across San Francisco. Your assigned location will be based on your home location and commute. Staff may be reassigned to different locations during the summer depending on staffing and program needs. Tree Frog Treks will provide reasonable accommodations if your schedule changes.

How to Apply:

It’s easy to apply using our Application portal.

Follow the link to our application page!

Join the Tree Frog Treks team and inspire the next generation of scientists and environmental stewards while having fun outdoors all summer long!