ABOUT BATTLE CREEK OUTDOOR EDUCATION CENTER

The Outdoor Education Center (OEC), commonly called ‘Clear Lake Camp’, is a division of the Battle Creek Public School System (BCPS). We are located on Clear Lake in Dowling, Michigan. We offer a serene rural environment less than an hour’s drive from Lansing, Grand Rapids, and Kalamazoo.

As the oldest school camp in the nation, we have been offering programs to supplement school curriculum for over 60 years. We currently offer overnight and day programs to schools located across southern Michigan. In addition, we host weddings, family retreats, and workshops.

INSTRUCTOR POSITION

Instructors at the OEC play an essential role in the camp experience for visiting students. Instructors are responsible for providing a fun, positive experience in the outdoors for campers. They are in charge of a group of students, either during the day leading activities or overnight doing supervision of the dorm.

COMPENSATION

• $80/day.
• Paid training days.
• Private room or cabin onsite with heat and electricity, no plumbing but has access to a nearby staff bathhouse with laundry facilities.
• Meals provided during training and when groups are onsite.
• Option to elect healthcare through EDUStaff at cost to the employee.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS

• Lead student groups in experiential learning activities in an outdoor setting.
• Teach classes with a science, adventure, and outdoor pursuits focus, includes programs such as Pond Exploration, Canoeing, and Survival. Be able to teach programs independently as well as teach with co-instructors.
• Eat 1-2 meals with students depending on which shift you are working.
• Work with classroom teachers to meet class goals within program framework.
• Provide responsible leadership for campers.
• Handle and help care for the OEC animal ambassadors; snakes, frogs, fish, and raptors.
• Upkeep classrooms, equipment, and program areas.
• Attend all staff meetings and training sessions.
• Adhere to all camp policies and procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS

• Some college experience required.
• At least 18 years old.
• Current certifications in CPR and First Aid
• Prior experience with children.
• Ability to work with co-workers in a team setting.
• Willingness to rotate into overnight supervision of students once every three weeks (this might vary).
• Willingness to work up to 10 hours a day.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including split shift.
• A willingness to be coached and openness to feedback.
• Ability to work outside in all weather conditions; rain, snow, cold, heat, etc.
• Pass background check, drug screen, and central registry clearance (at own expense).
• Must be willing to become a member of EDUStaff; our contract hiring agency.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Education or Natural Science.
• At least 21 years of age.
• Certifications in Wilderness First Aid or Wilderness First Responder.
• Experience with urban groups.
• Experience supervising students overnight.
• Prior experience in residential education.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Programs are run in all weather conditions, instructors need to be able to work outdoors for long hours in cold, heat, rain, snow, and other weather that arises. Instructors will also need to be able to stand for hours and be able to hike up to 5 miles. Should be able to lift or move up to 25 pounds.

HOW TO APPLY

Send cover letter, resume, and 3 reference contacts to Program Coordinator, Kellie Donajkowski, at [email protected]

Phone inquiries are welcome at 269-721-8161.

More information is on our website www.clearlakecamp.org.

The OEC accepts applications on a rolling basis. Positions close once filled.