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 Coordinators for Oakland County Parks Outdoor Discovery Camps at multiple locations throughout Oakland County, Michigan. These week-long outdoor day camps provide hands-on, nature-based educational experiences for children ages 6–11.
The Camp Coordinator is responsible for the overall management of camp.
- Oversees daily camp operations.
- Supervises and collaborates with staff.
- Communicate with parents and ensure high-quality programming that supports environmental education and conservation.
We are seeking staff with a background in one or more of the following areas: camp management, education, environmental or natural sciences, outdoor recreation, ecology, wildlife biology, forestry, geology, sustainability, cooperative games, or experiential learning.
This is a 8–10-week position with two weeks of preparation and training prior to the start of camp. It runs mid-June through mid-August. There is no camp the week of June 29-July 3. Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m., with work hours 8:00 a.m.–4:30p.m. with optional aftercare hours.
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:
- Ensure camp operations comply with all applicable licensing regulations, safety standards, and MSU Extension policies.
- Oversee and manage daily camp check-in and check-out procedures to ensure accurate attendance and camper safety.
- Serve as a primary point of contact for parents and guardians regarding camper behavior, schedules, policies, and concerns.
- Coordinate and oversee the preparation of supplies, materials, and lesson plans used by Camp Educational group Leaders.
- Supervise, support, and mentor Camp Educational Leaders and teen volunteers to ensure effective program delivery.
- Lead the planning and implementation of summer camp programming and assist in the coordination of staff training.
- Ensure experiential, science-based curriculum is implemented appropriately for various age groups using research-based and developmentally appropriate practices.
- Monitor camper behavior, promote positive social interactions, and address behavioral concerns in accordance with camp policies.
- Maintain responsibility for the health and safety of campers, volunteers, staff, and self, including emergency preparedness and response.
- Respond promptly and appropriately to health, safety, and camper needs, including managing food allergies and medical concerns.
- Participate in and help facilitate required in-service training and staff meetings.
- Collaborate with camp staff and park partners to plan, schedule, and refine daily activities and programs.
- Organize, inventory, and manage instructional equipment and supplies.
- Communicate professionally with parents, the public, staff, and partner organizations.
- Coordinate and supervise extended care programming as needed (8:00–9:00 a.m. and/or 3:30–5:30 p.m.).
- Perform additional duties as needed to ensure the successful operation of camp, as assigned by the Camp Director.
Desired Qualifications
- Knowledge of and ability to comply with Michigan LARA camp licensing rules and regulations, including health, safety, supervision, and documentation requirements.
- Experience maintaining required camp documentation (attendance, health records, incident reports, staff credentials) in accordance with LARA.
- Comfort and interest in working with elementary, middle, and high school-aged youth.
- Experience working with youth in formal or informal settings (school, nature center, summer camp, scouts, etc.).
- Experience implementing emergency procedures, incident reporting, and risk management protocols in outdoor or camp settings.
- All camp staff must successfully complete required criminal background and child abuse/neglect registry clearances prior to working with campers.
- Working knowledge of the natural world and environmental systems.
- Experience working in close proximity to wildlife and natural boundaries.
- Ability to work willingly in all weather (including summer heat and/or rain).
- Be comfortable with and/or interested in forestry, plant science, entomology, fisheries and wildlife, and animal science.
- Ability to remain physically active for a full workday.
- Applicants must be at least 21 years of age to comply with licensing and safety regulations.
- Demonstrate commitment, reliability, punctuality, and responsible behavior at previous positions.
- Possess current CPR/First Aid certification.
- Ability to support and deliver programming aligned with Oakland County Parks’ mission of environmental education, conservation, and stewardship.
- Ability to lift and carry educational materials, equipment, etc. up to 50 lbs.
- 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, fami
