Camp Environmental Educator

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks that include numerous retail and restaurant discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates for performing arts events.

The North Carolina Botanical Garden ( NCBG) has been a leader in native plant conservation, horticulture, and education in the southeastern United States for more than 50 years. As part of The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, we further the University's tripartite teaching, research, and public service mission through our own mission to cultivate connections between plants, people, and place through science, engagement, and conservation. As a garden focused on conserving the biodiversity of southeastern native plants, we recognize that just as biodiversity is critical to a healthy ecosystem, diversity in people and perspectives makes our organization and community stronger. NCBG is committed to creating an environment in our gardens and natural areas where everyone's voice is heard, and everyone feels safe and welcome.

Are you passionate about connecting children with nature? Join us this summer as a Camp Environmental Educator at the North Carolina Botanical Garden ( NCBG)!

As a Camp Educator, you'll lead nature-based camps for children ages 4-10, fostering curiosity and wonder for the natural world through inquiry-driven activities. Guide children in exploring North Carolina's wildlife, habitats, and ecology with hikes, games, arts and crafts, and more. Our Camp Flytrap program offers week-long, place-based outdoor learning on our scenic campus, featuring native gardens, trails, ponds, streams, and a LEED-certified education center. Camp sessions are organized by age (4-5, 6-7, 8-10) with a 1:5 staff-to-camper ratio, balancing both indoor and outdoor experiences. For more information about Camp Flytrap, visit https://ncbg.unc.edu/learn/camp-flytrap.

If you are enthusiastic about sharing nature with children, thrive outdoors, and are a creative teacher, we'd love to have you join our camp team!

Position runs May 19 - August 18, 2025. (End date has some flexibility.) Camps run Monday - Friday, June 9 - August 15, 2025. Typical work schedule is 8:15-4:30 p.m. (35-40 hours per week).

Primary duties:
* Work collaboratively with year-round staff to prepare for and teach high-quality nature-based camps for groups of up to 14 campers from established lesson plans. Activities include outdoor exploration in our native plant gardens and nature trails, games, stories, citizen science projects, and arts/crafts. There is an opportunity to bring your own unique skill set and teaching experience to program delivery.
* Responsible for monitoring individual and group needs and adapting plans to help all children successfully engage in activities.
* Ensure the physical and emotional safety of campers in a fun, supportive environment.
* Communicate effectively with campers, parents/ guardians, staff, and volunteers.
* Set up and break down camp materials daily and maintain program supplies and the classroom.
* Safely transport campers by van for local field trips, as needed.
* Assist with camp paperwork and maintain accurate program records, as needed.
* Help supervise teen volunteers.
* Assist with maintaining indoor and outdoor learning spaces.
* Attend required trainings and meetings.

Bachelor's degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment and one year of experience that demonstrates possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work; or equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.

* Passion for sharing nature with children (ages 4-10)
* Familiarity with North Carolina plants, animals, and natural ecosystems
* Strong leadership and teaching abilities
* Knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices
* Adaptable, highly motivated, energetic, with sound judgment
* Excellent organizational and time management skills
* Ability to thrive under pressure with a positive, solution-oriented mindset
* Exceptional verbal, interpersonal, and listening communication skills
* Patient, kind, and able to collaborate effectively with diverse individuals of all ages and backgrounds
* Proficient computer skills
* Submit to a criminal background check prior to employment
* A valid NC driver's license and eligibility to drive a State vehicle is required
* Ability to obtain CPR and First Aid certification (provided)

Previous experience teaching in a formal or informal education or camp setting
* Bachelor's degree in natural sciences, science education, or related field; or equivalent combination of training and experience
* Prior experience teaching nature-based programs in a nonformal setting (e.g. botanic gardens, nature centers, science museums, parks)
* Experience working with youth from different backgrounds and abilities
* Relevant certifications such as NC Environmental Educator, Certified Interpretive Guide, etc.
* Bilingual English/Spanish Proficiency desired but not required
* Additional professional or lived experience that demonstrates added capacity to fulfill the position's responsibilities

* Ability to move swiftly around the education center, gardens and trails, and comfortably walk distances of up to 2 miles on uneven terrain, sit on the floor/ground, and lift 25 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation
* Must be comfortable working outdoors in the heat and humidity and sometimes buggy conditions

H-1B sponsorship is not available for this position.

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at (919) 843-2300 or send an email to employment@unc.edu

Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, race, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or status as a protected veteran.