Garden/Farm Educator

Job description

Responsibilities: • Engage in pre-arrival discussions with year-round staff to coordinate garden setup before arrival • Plant, water, prune, and harvest fruits, vegetables, and herbs as needed • Maintain a presentable garden appearance through weeding and pest maintenance using only natural/organic practices • Plan and lead hands-on gardening activities for campers (ages 7–15), staff, and guests including planting, tending, harvesting, tasting, and/or cooking • Plan programs that teach campers, staff, and guests about where food comes from, plant identification, life cycles, sustainable practices, healthy nutrition, food justice, and Jewish values relating to food • Properly store and maintain garden tools and supplies • Coordinate with Jewish program specialists and Teva (nature) specialists to create synergies between programs when possible • Oversee camp composting program and utilize compost whenever possible • Ensure camp chickens have food and water and are let out of the chicken run daily • Participate in all-camp special events as needed • Fully participate in general staff orientation and specialist meetings • Serve in shmira (night watch) rotation as scheduled (residential staff only) • Help prepare camp for opening and final cleanup at end of summer Qualifications: • Must enjoy working with kids • Knowledge of farming and gardening • Ability to lift up to 40 pounds • Be a team player Salary: Under $25,000. About Us: Since 1902, Surprise Lake Camp has provided a haven for children in the beautiful mountains of Cold Spring, NY. We are particularly proud of our open, inclusive community that is sensitive to the needs of interfaith and diverse families. Positions are residential and are hired for the duration of our summer program, although qualified local applicants/commuters may be considered. The time commitment is early June to late August.