On any given day, you might help a seven-year-old hold a chicken for the first time, lead a group of middle schoolers through a harvest, or watch a kid who hasn't spoken all morning suddenly have a lot to say about why earthworms matter. If you light up when kids notice the world around them — a bug under a log, a carrot pulling free from the earth, a chicken eating from their hand — and you believe kids deserve to get their hands dirty and your summer should mean something, Farm Camp at Crown Point Ecology Center is exactly where you belong.
This isn't just a summer job. Counselors work on a 115-acre USDA-certified organic farm in Bath Township, Ohio, gain mentorship from experienced environmental educators, and leave with a professional reference and real credentials — whether they're heading into education, agriculture, ecology, or youth development.
Camper Care & Supervision
Supervise and engage a small group of campers in grades 2–8 throughout the camp day
Foster a welcoming, inclusive, and emotionally supportive environment
Support campers in building confidence, teamwork, and independence
Maintain appropriate camper-to-counselor ratios at all times
Ensure camper safety during all activities, transitions, and outdoor exploration
Program Support & Facilitation
Assist with and help lead daily camp activities, which may include: Animal interactions and care — including feeding, watering, and hands-on engagement with farm animals under staff guidance
Gardening and harvesting
Nature exploration and ecological discovery activities
Wetland and watershed activities
Games, storytelling, and reflective group moments
Support experiential, inquiry-based learning rather than lecture-style teaching
Adapt activities to meet the needs, ages, and abilities of campers
Farm & Outdoor Stewardship
Model respectful behavior around animals, tools, and farm spaces
Help campers understand basic farm routines and why they matter
Support cleanliness and organization of camp areas and shared spaces
Model land stewardship practices that reflect CPEC's commitment to ecological health and sustainable agriculture
Team Collaboration
Work closely with camp leadership, volunteer staff, and fellow counselors
Communicate clearly about camper needs, concerns, or safety issues
Participate in daily setup, cleanup, and end-of-day reflections
Attend required training and orientation sessions prior to camp
Required Qualifications
Minimum age: 17 (18+ preferred)
Ability to pass required background checks
Ability to follow safety protocols and organizational policies
Physical ability to: navigate uneven terrain, stand and walk for extended periods, work comfortably outdoors in varying weather conditions, and lift up to 30 lbs (with accommodations available as needed)
Desired Qualifications
Experience working with children in camps, schools, outdoor programs, or similar settings
Interest in farming, animals, ecology, environmental education, or nature-based learning
Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills
Ability to remain calm, flexible, and positive in a fast-paced environment
A genuine belief that curiosity, play, and joy are as important as the curriculum
Schedule & Commitment
Seasonal summer position: July 8–31, 2026 (Session 1: July 13–17; Session 2: July 20–24; Session 3: July 27–31)
Weekday daytime hours: Approximately 8:00am – 4:00pm (includes daily setup, cleanup, and staff check-ins)
Required pre-season training/orientation — Paid (July 8 & 9, 2026)
We are actively seeking counselors who can commit to all three sessions. Single-week availability will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Compensation
This is a seasonal, hourly, non-exempt position at $15.00 per hour (paid training included). Counselors also leave with a professional reference from CPEC's Education staff — a meaningful credential for those pursuing careers in education, agriculture, ecology, or youth development.
Pay: $15.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
