Overview:

Camp Wa-Ya is hiring Lead Instructors to work summer 2023 (June 19th through September 1st). Our lead instructors teach lessons centered around STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) curriculum, in combination with Indigenous practices and arts, outdoor adventure, and environmental stewardship and provide an environment that fosters a sense of wonder for Wa-Ya campers. As a Lead Instructor, you will be responsible for leading a group of campers during 10, five-day sessions. You will be partnered with an Assistant Instructor, with additional support provided by Wa-Ya Leadership Interns and our Tribal Fellow, to teach lessons, run activities, and organize games for your group of up to 14 campers.

The Lead Instructor role is an elevated responsibility position requiring experience in childcare and for those applicants capable of developing curriculum and creating and teaching lessons that achieve Wa-Ya’s learning objectives related to environmental education topics. For example, instruction in marine science and coastal studies, forest ecology, geology, creek and wetland study including salmon science, and wilderness survival. The Lead Instructor will help campers gain an understanding of, and confidence in outdoor and creative wellness pursuits such as hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, yoga, and art projects. Additionally, the Lead Instructor is responsible for ensuring the routine integration of tribal culture lessons and activities, with the assistance of Wa-Ya’s Tribal Fellow, as well as Indigenous community leaders that come in as guest speakers.

All Wa-Ya staff  engage in a culturally integrated environment, where Wa-Ya’s values of respect, diversity, equity, and inclusion are practiced. Logistical direction provided by engaged Board members. Camp is limited to 14 children between the ages of 6-13 years old, with a 7:1 student: teacher ratio.

Responsibilities:

• Teaching South Puget Sound plant identification, natural history, conservation, marine biology, geology, river systems, survival skills, orienteering, nature identification, and Indigenous culture.
• Providing instruction to outdoor pursuits such as hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, survival, yoga, mindfulness and art projects (please note – Kayaking is a routine component of Wa-Ya’s programming)
• Curriculum and lesson planning, weekly preparation, and camp clean-up. This includes directing and managing Wa-Ya Assistant instructors and interns to ensure the work is accomplished in a safe, complete, and timely manner.
• Providing care and quality control of Wa-Ya field equipment, adventure equipment, and teaching supplies including maintaining a well-organized and clean teaching and equipment storage room.
• Following camp policies and procedures and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all participants at camp.
• Adhering to Wa-Ya COVID protocols, including protocol changes as state requirements evolve.
• Providing mentoring and direction to Wa-Ya Summer interns and actively engaging them in daily camp activities, logistics, and lesson delivery.
• Driving the Wa-Ya vans (12- and 15-passenger) to teaching sites, including periodic requirements for towing Wa-Ya’s Sea Kayak Trailer.
• Engaging with parents and the Camp Director.

Qualifications

• First Aid/CPR certified, Wilderness First Aid or Wilderness First Responder preferred.
• Valid driver’s license, clean driving record, and ability to pass a background check.
• Must be enrolled in or a graduate of a relevant college natural resource or related degree program.
• Available to work 8:00am – 5:00pm, Monday – Friday and attend orientation.
• Demonstrated knowledge, skills, and abilities in developing and delivering environmental science and/or outdoor curriculum to kids.
• Familiarity with local flora and fauna; and STEAM activities.
• Experience participating or teaching adventure related activities including, but not limited to kayaking, rock climbing, hiking, and outdoor survival.
• Passion, curiosity, patience, and reliability required.

Schedule:

In-person 5-day staff training begins June 19, 2023, and camp begins June 26, 2023. All camps run Monday through Friday and end September 1, 2023. All shifts run approximately 8 hours, although additional time may occur for curriculum prep, cleanup, or to provide normal and routine child care needs.

Compensation:

$720 per week ($18.00 per hour equivalent)

Non-Discrimination Policy:

Wa-Ya does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. These activities include, but are not limited to, hiring and firing of staff, selection of volunteers and vendors, and provision of services. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all staff, clients, volunteers, subcontractors, vendors, and campers.

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