Overview: Camp Wa-Ya is hiring Assistant Instructors to work Summer 2023 (June 19th through September 1st). Our Assistant Instructor will support the Lead Instructor in the delivery of 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 an Assistant Instructor, you will be responsible for providing support and co-teaching a group of campers during 10, five-day sessions. You will be partnered with a Lead Instructor, to teach lessons, run activities, and organize games for your group of up to 14 campers.

Assistant Instructors assist in the overall management of day-to-day camp operations and logistics necessary for the support and delivery of science & adventure-based activities. Environmental Education topics for instruction include marine science and coastal studies, forest ecology, geology, creek and wetland study including salmon science, and wilderness survival; as well as outdoor and creative wellness pursuits such as hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, yoga, mindfulness, and art projects.

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:

• Support the lead instructor in providing childcare and teaching South Puget Sound plant identification, natural history, conservation, marine biology, geology, river systems, survival skills, and indigenous culture.
• Provide instructional support in outdoor pursuits such as hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, survival, yoga, and art projects. (Please note – Kayaking is a routine component of Wa-Ya’s programming)
• Responsible for following camp policies and procedures and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all participants at camp.
• Adhere to Wa-Ya COVID protocols, including proposal changes as state requirements evolve.
• Provide mentoring to Wa-Ya Summer interns and actively engage them in daily camp activities, logistics, and lesson delivery.
• If needed (and you are able to), drive the Wa-Ya vans (12- and 15-passenger) to teaching sites, including periodic requirements for towing Wa-Ya’s Sea Kayak Trailer
• Engage 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.
• Available to work 8:30am – 4:30pm, Monday – Friday and attend orientation.
• Demonstrated leadership abilities.
• Knowledge, skills, and abilities to develop and deliver environmental science and/or outdoor curriculum to kids ages 6-13 years old.
• Familiarity with local flora and fauna, STEAM activities, and adventure related activities including, but not limited to kayaking, rock climbing, hiking, and outdoor survival.
• Passion, curiosity, patience, and reliability required.

Schedule:

In-person 4-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 childcare needs.

Compensation:

$640 per week ($16.00 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.