Summer Camp Support Leader / Extension Program Worker

Position Summary(Basic Job Function)

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In alignment with the mission, programs and initiatives of MSU Extension, delivers research-based information to program participants through various methods and/or provides support and coordination of MSU Extension programs.

Unit Position Summary

Michigan State University Extension is committed to fostering a welcoming and collaborative environment, which requires all staff to contribute toward a vision for success regardless of title or position within the organization. We strive to create a positive culture, access to resources, and a sense of belonging for staff, partners, and programming participants. This means that all staff at MSU Extension are dedicated to the following:

• We work together to ensure that programming is available to all audiences, creates meaningful and positive impacts for participants, and demonstrates partnership and collaboration across communities.
• We understand that a welcoming and respectful environment is built through the efforts of everyone.
• We foster an environment that welcomes a broad range of perspectives and experiences, ensuring that all individuals have the opportunity to contribute and thrive.
• We ensure that every team member is prepared with the skills and resources to contribute to our welcoming and supportive culture.
• We foster an environment that values a range of perspectives, skills, and experiences by working to ensure access to programming for communities.
• We commit to continuous learning and engagement to better serve Michigan residents and meet the evolving needs of communities.
• We recognize that broad accessibility and collaboration are essential elements of our work and are vital to organizational and programmatic success.
• We embrace a culture of understanding, coaching, and feedback toward achieving a vision of success for the entire organization and its staff.
• Together we will achieve success and we commit to these goals in our work, continued education, and ongoing efforts.

Position Summary:

MSU Extension is seeking candidates to serve as Camp Support for Oakland County Parks Outdoor Discovery Camps at multiple locations throughout Oakland County, Michigan. These week-long day camps provide hands-on, nature-based educational experiences for children ages 6–11.

Camp Support staff assist with the daily operation of camp, helping to implement activities, supervise campers, support Camp Educational Leaders, and maintain a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment. Staff also assist with extended care, equipment and supply preparation, and help ensure that campers have high-quality nature-based learning experiences.

We are seeking candidates with a background or interest in one or more of the following areas: camp, education, environmental or natural sciences, outdoor recreation, ecology, wildlife biology, forestry, geology, sustainability, cooperative games, or experiential learning.

This is an 8–10-week seasonal position with one week of training prior to the start of camp. Camps run mid-June through mid-August, Monday–Friday, 8:00am.–5:30 p.m., with hours varying as needed to support camp operations and aftercare. There is no camp the week of June 29–July 3.

For more information about Nature Discovery Summer Camps at Oakland County Parks, visit our webpage at https://www.oakgov.com/community/oakland-county-parks/nature/nature-education/outdoor-discovery-summer-camps

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Supervise campers during activities and extended care, ensuring a safe and positive environment.
• Assist Camp Educational Leaders with hands-on activities, lessons, and outdoor programs.
• Support and mentor teen volunteers helping with camp activities.
• Monitor camper behavior, encourage positive social interactions, and address minor concerns following staff guidance.
• Help organize and set up equipment, supplies, and activity spaces.
• Communicate politely and professionally with campers, parents, and staff as needed.
• Lead or support extended care sessions, ensuring campers are engaged and safe.
• Assist with general camp operations as directed by Camp Educational Leaders or Camp Coordinator.
• Organize, assemble, and be responsible for equipment needed for instruction.
• Supervise campers during all activities, transitions, and outdoor excursions.
• Communicate with parents, the public, and staff appropriately.
• Lead extended care as needed from 3:30-5:30 pm.
• Assume any task or responsibility necessary for a successful camp operation as assigned by the camp coordinator.

Desired Qualifications

• Responsible, professional, and able to supervise and lead aftercare sessions for campers.
• Comfortable and enthusiastic about working with children ages 6–11.
• Experience working with youth in school, summer camp, scouts, or similar settings.
• Interest in nature, outdoor activities, and hands-on learning.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Dependable, punctual, and able to follow guidance from Camp Educational Leaders.
• Ability to communicate respectfully and positively with campers, staff, and parents.
• Possess current CPR/First Aid certification (not required)
• Proven ability in establishing and working with a network of constituents and community members across race, gender, national origin, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status, veteran status, socioeconomic class, disabilities, and other differences.
•  Demonstrated success in program development and delivery to audiences/communities representative of the communities we serve, and proven ability in establishing and working with a network of constituents and community members across race, color, gender, national origin, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status, veteran status, socioeconomic class, and other differences.
• Understanding of and ability to implement Civil Rights principles and compliance standards.
• Combination of education and specific, relevant experience may be considered in lieu of degree.
• Ability to lift and carry educational materials, equipment, etc. up to 25 lbs.
• Ability to demonstrate sensitivity, knowledge, and use of appropriate approaches, skills and techniques, which reflect an understanding and awareness of social, cultural and economic diversity of the target population served.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Travel in local and surrounding communities and occasional long-distance travel are required as a regular part of this position.
• Transportation is the responsibility of the employee.
• Proficiency in use of technology (e.g., web research, Zoom, Qualtrics, Microsoft Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook for mail/calendaring, distance technology, etc.).
• Other skills and/or physical abilities required to perform duties of the position.

Required application materials:

Resume, Cover Letter, 3 Professional References

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Summary of Physical Demands

See Desired Qualifications