Position Overview

Position Type: Seasonal, Hourly
Pay Range: $13-15/hour
Hours: less than 20 hrs/week
Reports To: Program Manager

The Programs Assistant will help operate Open Saturdays throughout the summer season and assist with camp after care during Camp Trillium. Responsibilities include opening and closing the park and the Mills Education Center, staffing the welcome desk, supporting tours, supervising children awaiting parent pick-up, and occasionally overseeing volunteers.

This is an ideal position for someone pursuing education, environmental studies, recreation, wildlife biology, or a related field, or anyone who enjoys working with children and connecting people to nature.

Key Responsibilities

Open Saturdays (May – September):

• Open and close the park and the Mills Education Center according to established procedures
• Staff the welcome desk: greet visitors, answer questions, process admissions or merchandise sales, and provide general park information
• Assist with or help lead interpretive tours and informal educational experiences
• Monitor visitor activity to ensure safety and adherence to park guidelines
• Support set-up and clean-up of program materials and spaces

Camp Trillium After Care (6/8-6/26 & 7/6-7/24, M –Th, 3:00–5:30 PM):

• Supervise campers during after care hours in a safe, positive, and engaging manner
• Lead age-appropriate games, crafts, or outdoor activities
• Ensure safe transitions and accurate parent/guardian sign-out procedures
• Communicate professionally with parents and guardians at pick-up
• Maintain a clean and organized program space

General Support:

• Occasionally supervise and direct volunteers during programs or public hours
• Assist with light administrative or program preparation tasks as assigned
• Serve as a friendly and professional representative of LC Nature Park
• Uphold all safety procedures and child protection policies

Qualifications

• At least 18 years of age
• Experience working with children (camp, childcare, education, or related experience preferred)
• First Aid/CPR certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and take initiative
• Reliable, punctual, and organized
• Fully participate in all activities, including staff training activities.
• Ability to handle stressful situations appropriately, maintaining mental, emotional, and social resilience needed for the job in a fast-paced, interactive environment.
• Ability to pass a criminal background check.

Physical Aspects of the Job

This position will require bending, stooping, walking long distances across rugged terrain and prolonged standing. This position involves daily exposure to sun, heat, dust, and animals, including wild animals and those maintained at the park.

• Physical ability to respond appropriately to situations requiring first aid. Must be able to assist guests in an emergency (fire, evacuation, illness, or injury).
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds and be active (walking, standing) for extended periods

Certifications and Licenses

• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.

How to Apply

Send and email with a cover letter and resume attached as a pdf to info@lcnaturepark.org. The position will close when filled.