Job Opportunity: Summer Nature Program Assistant

Location: 154 Ruckman Road, Closter NJ, 07624

Position Type: Seasonal, Hourly

Compensation: Starting at $16.00/hour, pay commensurate with experience

Schedule: Monday through Thursday, 8:45 AM – 4:15 PM

Dates: July 6th – August 27th

Position Overview

We are seeking an enthusiastic, responsible, and nature-loving Summer Nature Program Assistant to join our team. In this role, you will work closely with our Naturalist to provide a safe, fun, and educational outdoor summer experience for children ages 4 to 14, while also helping to guide and mentor our youth volunteers (ages 11–17) who assist with the daily sessions.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone interested in education, environmental science, conservation, or youth development to gain hands-on, rewarding experience in a beautiful outdoor classroom.

Key Responsibilities

  • Program Support: Assist with teaching interactive nature lessons and leading daily outdoor activities like trail hikes, stream walks, and pond explorations.

  • Animal Care: Assist with the handling, feeding, and basic daily care of our resident captive animal ambassadors (reptiles, amphibians, etc.).

  • Group Safety: Ensure a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for campers ages 4–14 during all activities.

Requirements

  • Must be 18 years of age or older by the start date (July 6th).

  • Must possess or be able to acquire First Aid Certification. (Training can be organized by CNC with Closter Ambulance Corps)

  • Ability to commit to the full program schedule: Monday through Thursday, July 6th to August 27th, from 8:45 AM to 4:15 PM.

Valuable Attributes & Qualifications

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

  • Previous experience working with or supervising children in a camp, school, or community setting.

  • Comfortable working outdoors in variable weather conditions (heat, light rain, mud) and capable of being on your feet for the duration of the program day.

  • A genuine interest in environmental conservation, nature, outdoor education, or child development.

How to Apply

If you are excited to spend your summer inspiring the next generation of nature lovers, we want to hear from you!

Please send an email message with your interest in the position, why you would be a good fit, and your contact information to:

Marc Gussen, naturalist@closternaturecenter.org with the subject line "Summer Program Assistant Application - [Your Name]".

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.