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Summer Nature Jobs (NOW HIRING)

2026 Summer Schools and Camps Staff

Culver, IN · On-site

$11.50 - $15/hr

Woodcrafters also develop an understanding of and appreciation for nature and other cultures. UPPER ... Summer Employment Requirements Whether in Junior Woodcraft (ages 7-9), Woodcraft Camp (ages 9-14 ...

Director, Day Camp JCC Chicago is seeking a passionate, engaging, and knowledgeable Wildlife & Nature Specialist to bring our Garoon Gateway to Science space to life this summer. This role is ideal ...

Director, Day Camp JCC Chicago is seeking a passionate, engaging, and knowledgeable Wildlife & Nature Specialist to bring our Garoon Gateway to Science space to life this summer. This role is ideal ...

Summer Camp Counselor

CA · On-site

$676 - $796/wk

Responsive recruiter Under the supervision of the Summer Camp Manager, the Camp Counselor will ... to nature and each other. Working at Pathfinder Ranch can be a truly valuable and rewarding ...

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Summer Nature information

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$7

$15

$22

How much do summer nature jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer nature in the United States is $15.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a summer nature job?

Summer Nature jobs are seasonal positions that involve working outdoors in natural settings, such as parks, camps, nature centers, or conservation areas. These jobs can include roles like camp counselor, park ranger assistant, outdoor educator, or conservation crew member. They typically focus on environmental education, habitat maintenance, or leading activities for children and visitors. Summer Nature jobs are ideal for individuals who enjoy working outside, have a passion for nature, and want to gain hands-on experience in the environmental field.

What is the difference between Summer Nature vs Summer Camp Counselor?

AspectSummer NatureSummer Camp Counselor
Required CredentialsBasic outdoor skills, environmental knowledgeFirst aid, child supervision, activity planning
Work EnvironmentNatural settings, parks, nature reservesCampgrounds, recreational facilities, outdoor settings
Employer & IndustryEnvironmental organizations, nature centersSummer camps, youth programs
Common Search IntentNature activities, outdoor educationChild supervision, camp activities

Summer Nature roles focus on outdoor environmental education and conservation, often involving guiding visitors or leading nature-based activities. Summer Camp Counselors primarily supervise children, organize camp activities, and ensure safety. While both roles are outdoors and involve leadership, Summer Nature emphasizes environmental knowledge, whereas Summer Camp Counselors focus on child engagement and supervision.

What are some common challenges faced by summer nature camp counselors and how can they be addressed?

Summer Nature Camp Counselors often encounter challenges such as managing diverse groups of children in an outdoor setting, adapting to rapidly changing weather conditions, and ensuring safety during hands-on nature activities. Effective communication, preparedness with contingency plans, and strong teamwork are essential for overcoming these challenges. Counselors benefit from training in first aid, conflict resolution, and outdoor leadership, which help them create a positive, engaging, and safe environment for campers.
More about Summer Nature jobs
What cities are hiring for Summer Nature jobs? Cities with the most Summer Nature job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Nature jobs? The most popular types of Nature jobs are:
What states have the most Summer Nature jobs? States with the most job openings for Summer Nature jobs include:
Infographic showing various Summer Nature job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,041 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Wildwood Nature Center Instructor - Lead, Part-Time (46104)

PARK RIDGE PARK DISTRICT

Park Ridge, IL

$19 - $21/hr

Part-time

Posted 18 days ago


Park Ridge Park District rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

593rd of 844 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Wildwood Nature Center is a five-acre park that has one and a half acres of restored native tallgrass prairie, two ponds, a campfire circle, walking trails, and a small woodland area.  Our Program Center houses three classrooms that are utilized year-round with programming for all ages, scout groups, birthday parties, special events, and summer camps.  Wildwood also uses three classroom spaces at the Maine Park Leisure Center where our Nature Preschool program and our Outdoor Nature classroom is located.

Our Nature Center facility houses an animal exhibit room that is home to over 50 animals and our Nature Nook, an educational playroom.  This building is open year-round to the public.

 
Description:  The Park Ridge Park District has an opening for a Lead Instructor for nature programming for ages 2-12, scout programs, special events, and birthday parties.  Selected individual will be responsible for planning, implementing, and leading the day-to-day classroom activities while infusing environmental education and outdoor exploration.  Will provide direction and coaching to the assistant Instructors and maintain records and communication with parents. 
Qualifications: Requires minimum of two years working with and supervising children and young adults. Must be creative, enjoy nature, demonstrate leadership skills and flexibility in order to establish and direct a comprehensive safe nature teaching environment.  This position requires the ability to maintain self-control, composure, motivate and solve problems.  Candidate must possess the ability to lead groups of children on a 30-90-minute nature hike in all weather conditions.  Intermediate level of experience in written and verbal communication in the English Language, Microsoft Office is required. Must have a current First-Aid and CPR Certification or the ability to become certified (through the District) within three months of hire.
Education: High School diploma or G.E.D.
Availability:  Hours vary from week to week to include evening and weekend hours (including Saturdays and Sundays); will average approximately 5-20 hours per week depending on availability.


Benefits: Our employees enjoy a multitude of facility benefits valued up to $6,000 such as:

  • Memberships at our Fitness Center, Oakton Sports Complex and Activity Center (for Active Adults 55+)
  • Indoor and Outdoor Pool Use
  • Private Room Rental for Your Special Occasions
  • Classes such as: Fitness, Tae Kwon Do, dog obedience
  • Discounted Preschool and Summer Camps for dependents

Select the following link to view all of the amazing benefits we offer:  Part-Time Employee Benefit Highlights


Job Description: Select the following link to view full job description: Wildwood Nature Center Lead Instructor job description


The Park Ridge Park District is an equal opportunity employer.


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