Careers

Explore a career at the Schuylkill Center

Founded in 1965 as a pioneer in environmental education, the Schuylkill Center continues to innovate, teach, and grow. We are guided by our vision to create a world where all people play, learn, and are inspired by nature. Our expert staff comes from a variety of backgrounds, fields, and experience.

The Schuylkill Center is the largest privately protected open space in Philadelphia. We are a leader in land restoration, using our 365 acres as a living laboratory for balancing stewardship with active use. Our Nature Preschool, started in 2013, was the first such nature-based program in Pennsylvania. Our cutting-edge environmental art program is the only one of its kind in an American nature center. Founded in 1987, our Wildlife Clinic is one of the few in the region, and the only one in the city of Philadelphia. Camp Schuylkill, our after-school program, and day-off camps provide thousands of kids with immersive experiences in nature.

Open Positions

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Manager of Camp and Afterschool Programs

The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, a leading environmental education provider for the Philadelphia region, seeks a passionate and energetic naturalist/educator to guide the growth and development of the Center’s summer camp program.
This is a full-time salaried position with a full range of benefits, including vacation, health, dental, and retirement. The position reports to the Director of Education.

  • Learn more

    Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

    ▪ Plan the summer camp calendar, including start and end dates and weekly themes.
    ▪ Hire, train, and supervise all camp staff including counselors, coordinators, and CITs.
    ▪ Plan all offsite trips.
    ▪ Work with the Director of Education to plan the summer camp budget and manage expenses.
    ▪ Manage evaluation of camp season including analysis of income and expenses, family and staff surveys, and debrief meetings.
    ▪ Supervise seasonal educators working Wild Wanderers and Day Off camp programs.
    ▪ Work all day off camps from September through February.
    ▪ Work Wild Wanderers two (2) days per week.
    ▪ Assist the other Education Department managers and staff in other programs and projects as needed.

    Expected Competencies:

    Experience in providing diverse educational programming in an outdoor setting for a variety of age groups; experience in a comparable camp program preferable.

    ▪ Desire and ability to engage youth in learning experiences using developmentally appropriate pedagogy and group management techniques.
    ▪ An understanding of childhood development, including stages of growth, and how social, emotional, physical, and cognitive needs intersect with learning.
    ▪ Experience in program design and evaluation.
    ▪ Demonstrated ability in teamwork.
    ▪ Excellent writing skills.
    ▪ Experience in successfully creating, managing, and meeting budgets.
    ▪ Mastery of the full suite of programs, including Word/Docs, Excel/Sheets, etc.

    Physical Demands/Work Environment:
    The physical demands and work environment characteristics described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

    The Manager of Camp Programs should expect to spend June ‐ August supervising staff and teaching outdoors, and the remainder of the year on planning, evaluation, and administrative work. They must be able to:

    ▪ Spend multiple hours outdoors in all weather (heat, cold, rain, snow).
    ▪ Hike 2-5 miles on rough terrain, keeping pace with children and teachers being observed and evaluated.
    ▪ Engage in sustained physical activity throughout the day.
    ▪ Lift up to 50 pounds (size of a small child).
    ▪ Hear children that might be out of direct sightline.
    ▪ Have 20:20 vision (with corrective lenses) to provide oversight during outdoor play.

    The Manager of Camp Programs is also regularly required to stand, walk, and use hands and arms to operate general office equipment (PC, telephone, filing cabinets, copier/scanner and printer). The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to low.

    Education, Experience, and Qualifications:
    The successful candidate will have a strong grounding in childhood development, natural sciences and environmental education, with at least two years’ experience in leading camp programming for a comparable education institution, or some combination of relevant education and experience.

    A Bachelor’s degree in biology, natural resources, education, environmental/science education, outdoor education or related fields is required.

    To Apply
    Please send your resume and cover letter to Aaliyah Green Ross at [email protected] with Manager of Camp and Afterschool Programs in the subject line.

    The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education is dedicated to being an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by law and our core values.

Director of Finance and Administration

The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, a leading environmental education provider for the Philadelphia region, seeks a Director of Finance and Administration. The Director of Finance and Administration will be responsible for the day-to-day financial and
administrative management of the organization. The successful candidate will be a hands-on and collaborative manager with proven experience in nonprofit accounting, budgeting, contract and grants management; compliance; and office administration. The Director of Finance and Administration will report to the Executive Director.

  • Learn more

    Responsibilities and Duties
    ▪ Oversee and manage day-to-day financial functions of the organization including payroll functions.
    ▪ Manage payroll functions including processing of payroll, calculating employees’ paychecks, withholding taxes and any other deductions, as well as maintaining accurate payroll records.
    ▪ Work with Accounting Manager and/or accounting firm to analyze and present financial reports in an accurate and timely manner; clearly communicate monthly and annual financial statements; oversee all financial, project/program and grants accounting.
    ▪ Manage organizational cashflow and forecasting.
    ▪ Oversee all accounts, ledgers, and reporting systems, ensuring compliance with applicable GAAP and regulatory requirements.
    ▪ Maintain internal control safeguards.
    ▪ Coordinate all audit activities.
    ▪ Implement a robust contracts management and financial management/reporting system.
    ▪ Work with the fundraising director/team to manage grant and donation revenue and ensure grant agreement compliance.
    ▪ Update and implement all necessary accounting practices.
    ▪ Serve as primary contact with bank and financial institutions.
    ▪ Serve as staff liaison on all financial issues with Board of Trustees. Serve on Board of Trustees finance committee.
    ▪ Serve as primary contact with insurance broker including policy renewals, and insurance claims.
    ▪ Create or update the Finance Department’s policies and procedures manual.
    ▪ Monitor staff performance and develop goals consistent with the responsibilities and duties of the job and the organization’s strategic plan.
    ▪ Oversee professional development/training for staff and ensure completion of annual performance appraisals.
    ▪ Supervise the Accounting Manager and Office Manager.

    Qualifications
    ▪ Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Business. MBA/CPA preferred.
    ▪ 8 – 10 years of financial and operations management experience in a managerial role.
    ▪ Demonstrated ability to design and implement best practices in nonprofit financial and operations management.
    ▪ Solid working knowledge of non-profit organizations, GAAP standards and fund accounting.
    ▪ Proven experience managing the quality and content of all financial and accounting data, reporting, and coordinating audits for an organization or significant department/program.
    ▪ Solid understanding of contracts management and compliance.
    ▪ A record of accomplishment in non-profit grants management, particularly in the areas of financial reporting and compliance.

    Compensation
    $80,000 – $85,000 annually.

    To Apply
    Please send your resume and cover letter to Erin Mooney at [email protected] with Director, Finance & Accounting in the subject line.

    The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education is dedicated to being an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by law and our core values.

Land Stewardship Coordinator

The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, a leading environmental education provider for the Philadelphia region, seeks a passionate and energetic Land Stewardship Coordinator to maintain a thriving and diverse ecosystem on our 365-acre property while overseeing our native plant nursery.

The Land Stewardship Coordinator supports our mission of inspiring meaningful connections between people and nature, overseeing our native plant program and sales, leading land restoration and stewardship projects, serving as the organization’s expert stewardship resource, managing our greenhouse, leading volunteer stewardship efforts, and monitoring our diverse ecosystem. Weekend and evening work is required.

  • Learn more and apply

    Duties and Responsibilities:
    ● Coordinate and implement all aspects of Native Plant Sales, including assisting in the development of promotional and customer support materials.
    ● Oversee sustainable production in the native plant nursery, including ordering of plant material and related supplies, use of proper horticultural techniques, and seasonal upkeep of nursery.
    ● Coordinate volunteer work sessions for student, corporate, and recurring volunteer groups (such as Native Planters, Greenhouse Volunteers, and Restoration Volunteers) to steward the 365-acre property.
    ● Collaborate with other departments (particularly Education School groups, Preschool Classes, and Artist Gatherings) to expand land stewardship education through hands-on experiences while benefiting the property.
    ● Coordinate and train college interns, greenhouse volunteers, groups, and individuals.
    ● Serve as staff lead on complying with the property’s conservation easement.
    ● Lead guided hikes and programs in support of the educational mission.
    ● Provide written material for grants, website updates, blogs, newsletters, and external publications.
    ● Assist the Director of Land and Facilities with property maintenance and improvement.

    Expected Competencies:
    ● Ample knowledge of southeastern PA’s flora and fauna.
    ● Experience in nursery management and horticulture.
    ● Knowledge of ecosystem management.
    ● Excellent writing skills to aid in grant submittals, publications, and website content.
    ● Team-oriented with strong interpersonal skills; work collaboratively with fellow staff and ability to communicate in a timely and respectful manner.
    ● Strong organizational skills to maintain plant inventory and perform project ordering.

    Physical Demands/Work Environment:
    The physical demands and work environment characteristics described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. During most of the year, Land & Facilities staff spends the better part of their day outdoors. The employee must be able to:
    ● Spend multiple hours outdoors in all weather (heat, cold, rain, snow)
    ● Hike 2-5 miles a day on rough terrain
    ● Engage in sustained physical activity throughout the day
    ● Lift up to 50 pounds (size of large container plant)

    The employee is also regularly required to stand, walk, and use hands and arms to operate pruners, chainsaws, clippers, shovels, and other outdoor tools and equipment; must be able to operate general office equipment like PC, telephone, copier, fax machine, and printer. The noise level in the work environment can range from high to low.

    Education, Experience and Qualifications:
    A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in one of the following areas is preferred: natural resource management, forestry, horticulture, and/or environmental studies. Also, at least one year’s experience in land stewardship and restoration is desired. Must pass background checks and complete all requirements mandated by the state.

    Compensation:
    This position is full time salaried with a full range of benefits, including vacation, health, dental, vision and retirement; salary is commensurate with experience 35,000 to 39,000 annual.

    To Apply:
    Please submit your resume, cover letter and contact information for three professional references to Stephen Goin, Director of Land and Facilities, Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, 8480 Hagy’s Mill Road, Philadelphia, PA 19128. Email Steve at [email protected].

    The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education is dedicated to being an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by law and our core values.

Grants Manager

The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education seeks a passionate and energetic fundraising professional to join our small but growing team to assist in our fundraising efforts.

The Center seeks an experienced and highly motivated candidate to provide grant writing support and foundation and corporate relations fundraising assistance to forward its mission and bring the Center’s fundraising efforts to the next level. The successful candidate will be an experienced grant writer and manage who is a compelling storyteller and a confident verbal and written communicator. This individual will work with the Director of Development and Executive Director to understand the fundraising goals of the Center and develop strategies to attain general operating, programmatic and special project support.

  • Learn more and apply

    The Grants Manager is responsible for identifying funding opportunities, developing grant proposals, and managing the grant application process. This role involves working closely with various departments to gather information, ensure compliance with grant requirements, and track the status of proposals and awarded grants.

    The ideal candidate will possess strong writing and organizational skills, a keen eye for detail, and a deep understanding of grant processes and funding sources.

    The candidate should be a strategic thinker with at least five years of fundraising experience and demonstrated results in grant writing and management. The candidate should also have a strong work ethic, be self-motivated, organized and detail-oriented and approach their work with dedication to the Center’s mission.

    This is a full-time salaried position with a range of benefits including vacation, health, dental, vision and retirement. The salary is commensurate with experience. The position reports to the Director of Development, and starts immediately.

    Duties and Responsibilities

    1. Grant Research and Identification:
    ○ Research and identify potential funding sources, including government grants, private foundations, and corporate giving programs.
    ○ Evaluate funding opportunities to determine their alignment with organizational goals and priorities.
    ○ Conduct proactive and reactive research to identify foundation and corporate funding opportunities and leverage new opportunities and trends in environmental education, early childhood education, land stewardship, environmental art, and wildlife rehabilitation philanthropy to secure new sources of funds for the Center.
    ○ Be an initial point of contact between prospects and the Center by managing introductory contact with foundations and corporations

    2. Proposal Development:
    ○ Write, edit, and submit compelling grant proposals and applications.
    ○ Develop clear and persuasive narratives that articulate the organization’s mission, programs, and funding needs.
    ○ Collaborate with program staff to gather information and data for proposals.

    3. Grant Management:
    ○ Monitor and manage the grant application process from start to finish, including tracking deadlines and ensuring timely submissions.
    ○ Assist in managing grants calendar for the development department.
    ○ Process approved grant applications and checks (entering information into Instrumentl)
    ○ Maintain a comprehensive database of grant applications, deadlines, and reporting requirements.
    ○ Ensure compliance with grant regulations and reporting requirements.
    ○ Work with Schuylkill Center staff to manage temporarily restricted grants and capital projects.

    4. Reporting and Evaluation:
    ○ Coordinate and support other departments in gathering impact data.
    ○ Prepare and submit regular progress reports and financial reports to funders.
    ○ Track the impact of funded projects and gather data to support future proposals.
    ○ Evaluate the effectiveness of grant strategies and recommend improvements.

    5. Communication and Collaboration:
    ○ Serve as the primary point of contact for grant-related inquiries.
    ○ Work closely with development, finance, and program staff to ensure alignment and accuracy in proposals and reports.
    ○ Develop and maintain relationships with funders and stakeholders.
    ○ Write and send thank you letters for approved applications;
    ○ Work with Schuylkill Center staff to manage restricted grants and capital projects

    6. Administrative Duties:
    ○ Maintain organized records of all grant-related documents and correspondence.
    ○ Prepare presentations and materials for internal and external meetings as needed.

    Education, Experience, and Expected Competencies
    ● Bachelor’s degree in English, Communications, Nonprofit Management, Public Administration, or a related field with at least five years of relevant work experience. A Master’s degree is a plus.
    ● Proven experience writing corporate and foundation grant proposals and ability to manage several assignments concurrently are essential.
    ● Excellent knowledge of proposal submission and fundraising process, fundraising techniques and strategies.
    ● Strong research skills and knowledge of information sources such as trends, statistics and information on foundations and other potential funders.
    ● Familiarity with the Center’s regional and national grant makers that support similar organizations is highly preferred.
    ● Working knowledge of how to meet program income goals.
    ● Working knowledge and understanding of budgets and presentation of budgets to grant making institutions.
    ● Demonstrated experience and proven success in cultivating high net-worth individuals, corporations, and foundations.
    ● Proficiency and experience with a fundraising database, especially Salesforce and Instrumentl.
    ● Mastery of the full suite of Microsoft and/or Google computer programs.
    ● Strong relationship-building, verbal, and written communications skills.
    ● Proven track record of successful grant proposals and fundraising achievements.

    Physical Demands/Work Environment
    The physical demands and work environment characteristics described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The employee is also regularly required to stand, walk, and use hands and arms to operate general office equipment (PC, telephone, file cabinets, copier, fax machine, and printer). The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to low.

    Compensation
    This is a full-time salaried position with a full range of benefits, including vacation, health, dental, vision, and retirement. Salary is commensurate with experience.

    To Apply
    Please send a resume and cover letter to Caroline Linz, Director of Development, at [email protected].

    The Schuylkill Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, gender, religion, national origin, or sexual orientation. We value a racially, ethnically, and culturally diverse work community and we strongly encourage applications from people of all backgrounds.

Development Coordinator

The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education seeks a passionate and energetic fundraising professional to join our small but growing team to assist in our fundraising efforts to forward our mission and bring the Center’s fundraising efforts to the next level.

The Development Coordinator plays a crucial role in advancing the organization’s fundraising efforts and maintaining strong relationships with donors, members, and supporters. This role involves crafting compelling fundraising appeals, managing social media and email campaigns, and ensuring effective communication with stakeholders. The ideal candidate will be a skilled writer with experience in fundraising and communications, capable of managing multiple tasks and projects to drive donor engagement and support.

  • Learn more and apply

    This position will collaborate with the Director of Development in the development, maintenance and implementation of the Center’s annual fundraising strategy. The candidate will be a development professional with proven experience securing the support and engagement of individual donors, corporations, and the Board of Directors. This position is responsible for identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding individual gifts related to the organization’s fundraising goals and overall vision.

    The candidate should be a strategic thinker with at least three years of fundraising experience. They should be a confident verbal and written communicator, and demonstrated results in annual fund and major gift solicitation, membership, and donor events. The candidate should also have a strong work ethic, be self motivated, organized and detail-oriented and approach their work with a sense of dedication to the Center’s mission.

    This is a part-time salaried position with a range of benefits including vacation, health, dental, vision and retirement. The salary is commensurate with experience. The position reports to the Director of Development, and starts immediately.

    Duties and Responsibilities
    1. Fundraising Appeals:
    ● Develop, write, and edit persuasive fundraising appeals, including letters, direct mail pieces, and online campaigns.
    ● Create engaging content that communicates the organization’s mission, impact, and funding needs.
    ● Collaborate with the development team to plan and execute targeted appeal strategies.
    ● Coordinate, write and personalize membership/donor mailings and acknowledgments.

    2. E-Blasts, Email Campaigns and Social Media Management:
    ● Collaborate with the Communications department to develop key messages and storytelling to enhance the Center’s brand and support fundraising efforts
    ● Create and manage development specific content for the organization’s social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn).
    ● Develop and implement social media campaigns to increase visibility, engagement, and donor support such as “Giving Tuesday.”
    ● Monitor social media channels, respond to inquiries, and engage with members and donors.
    ● Design and write content for e-blasts and email newsletters.
    ● Segment email lists and develop targeted messaging to various donor and member groups.
    ● Analyze email campaign performance and use insights to improve future communications.

    3. Donor and Member Communication and Management:
    ● Maintain and update donor and member databases with accurate contact and engagement information.
    ● Manage inquiries from donors and members, providing exceptional customer service and support.
    ● Work closely with fellow staff and board members to coordinate donor and institutional funder visit and cultivation/stewardship efforts
    ● Coordinate and manage donor recognition and stewardship efforts, including thank-you letters and impact reports.
    ● Manage and execute the member Gear Borrowing Program
    ● Utilize Salesforce as the primary tool to keep a record of and plan for donor and institutional funder identification, qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship

    4. Donor Cultivation and Stewardship
    ● Assist the Director of Development with Board of Directors and Advisory Committee communication, cultivation and stewardship
    ● Help advance a Culture of Philanthropy across the organization and Board of Directors
    ● Work on other Development related duties as they are assigned to you by the Director of Development. (Possibilities could include new virtual events, data mining, donor research, portfolio review, budgeting, campaign planning, etc.)
    ● Support the Center in all ways to maximize opportunities for philanthropic support in the community.

    5. Event Planning/Implementation
    ● Lead planning and execution of bi-annual fundraising event, house parties, in-person/virtual donor experiences, and other special donor and institutional funder events (creating/maintaining guest lists/RSVPs, guest follow-up, manage host committees, and silent auction).
    ● Ensure participation from current and prospective major donors and institutional funders at fundraising events.

    6. Administrative Support:
    ● Assist in organizing and coordinating fundraising events and campaigns.
    ● Provide administrative support to the development team, including scheduling meetings, preparing reports, and tracking fundraising progress.
    ● Ensure all fundraising materials are accurate, up-to-date, and aligned with organizational branding.

    Education, Experience, and Expected Competencies

    ● Bachelor’s degree in related field such as Communications, Creative Writing, English, Business Administration or Non-Profit Management with at least five years of relevant work experience
    ● Minimum of 2-4 years of experience in development, fundraising, communications, or a related role.
    ● Ability to analyze data and generate actionable insights.
    ● Proficiency and experience with a fundraising database, especially Salesforce.
    ● Mastery of the full suite of Microsoft and/or Google computer programs.
    ● Strong relationship-building, verbal, and written communications skills.
    ● Experience in a nonprofit or fundraising environment.
    ● Proficiency in social media platforms and email marketing tools (e.g., Mailchimp).
    ● Strong organizational and project management abilities.
    ● Ability to work collaboratively with a team and independently manage multiple projects.
    ● Demonstrated experience and success in soliciting and securing gifts of $10,000 and above is preferred.

    Physical Demands/Work Environment
    The physical demands and work environment characteristics described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

    The employee is also regularly required to stand, walk, and use hands and arms to operate general office equipment (PC, telephone, file cabinets, copier, fax machine, and printer). The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to low.

    Compensation
    This is a part-time salaried position with a full range of benefits, including vacation, health, dental, vision, and retirement. Salary is commensurate with experience.

    To Apply
    Please send a resume and cover letter to Caroline Linz, Director of Development, at [email protected].

    The Schuylkill Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, gender, religion, national origin, or sexual orientation. We value a racially, ethnically, and culturally diverse work community and we strongly encourage applications from people of all backgrounds.


Camp Schuylkill

Camp Schuylkill is an environmentally-focused summer camp that strives to give children the opportunity to explore and learn about their relationship to the natural world. Week-long, themed programs offer young learners a chance for in-depth explorations of a variety of nature-related topics. We are hiring for a variety of positions to staff this seasonal program. View available positions below.

To apply: Please send a letter of interest, resume, and 2 references to Justine O’Gara, Manager of Camp and Afterschool Programs, at [email protected] or Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, 8480 Hagy’s Mill Road, Philadelphia, PA 19128. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until all positions are filled.

Please no phone calls for application submissions, thank you!

  • Summer Camp Environmental Educator

    Camp Schuylkill is an environmentally focused program that strives to give children the opportunity to explore and learn about their relationship to the natural world. Week-long, themed programs offer youth and educators a chance for in-depth explorations of a variety of nature-related topics. We are seeking highly motivated, energetic, creative leaders to plan and implement environmental science-based outdoor lessons and activities for youth between the ages of 4–9 years old. Camp groups are split up by age with each group having a different focus (see descriptions below).

    Duties include: Planning and teaching hands-on and interactive environmental education lessons and activities, leading hikes, leading team-building activities, supervising outdoor recreation activities such as fishing, canoeing, and fire building, and supervising free and unstructured outdoor play. Seven days of paid training will be provided.

    As camp counselors, you will be working as a teaching team of three in the 4-5 year old camp or a teaching team of two in the 6-9 year old camp. A brief description of the camps follows:

    4-5 year old camp (9 positions total): In this camp, the focus will be on play and exploration while introducing children to nature and the outdoor world. The children will spend the majority of their day outdoors going on hikes and participating in free play. There will be a wide variety of art, songs, and other sensory activities integrated into week-long nature-based themes. There is also a big emphasis on social and emotional learning and supporting young children in conflict resolution, problem-solving, and emotional regulation while building positive relationships with both adults and their peers in a natural setting.

    This is a good choice if you understand young children’s development and would like to gain more experience integrating nature, free play, and social/emotional learning into your teaching. 

    6-9 year old camp (10 positions total): In this camp, the focus is on general environmental education. Topics include forest ecology, reptiles and amphibians, insects, tracking, and much more. There is more of an emphasis on specific subject learning compared to the -5 camp, but an equal emphasis is placed on free play in nature and building a positive relationship with the natural world.

    This is a good choice if you would like to incorporate some science content into your teaching while also giving children a fun and lasting experience with nature.

    Qualifications:

    Required

    • Applicants must be 18 years or older
    • Comfortable in the outdoors and all weather conditions
    • Demonstrated ability to be a positive role model for participants
    • An understanding of child development and age-appropriate pedagogy
    • Experience working with children
    • Strong communication skills and confidence in leading groups
    • Ability to engage children in fun and creative, hands-on learning opportunities
    • Ability to be flexible and maintain a positive attitude throughout camp

    Helpful But Not Required

    • Familiarity with outdoor recreation and natural sciences
    • An understanding of how to best support children with special needs and/or varying abilities
    • Associate or Bachelor’s Degree or major in Environmental Science, Education, Early Childhood Education, Biology, Botany, Horticulture, Agriculture, Outdoor Leadership, or related field

    Background Clearances: If hired, employees are responsible for providing a valid Pennsylvania child abuse clearance, state criminal background check, FBI criminal background check, Mandated Reporter training, and other background checks that the Schuylkill Center requires based on the applicant’s state residency. First Aid/CPR training will be provided to applicants who don’t currently have it. Additionally, as of September 2021, all hires are required to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination.

    Dates of Employment: The position begins on June 5, 2025, and ends on August 15, 2025. (June 5-6 and June 9-13 are mandatory training dates.) The camp will be closed on Thursday, June 19 and Friday, July 4 for the Independence Day holiday.

    Compensation: $16.00/hr paid biweekly. Educators are required to commit to all nine weeks of camp plus seven days of training. Educators will work 8:30 am–4:30 pm Monday–Friday.

    To apply: Please send a letter of interest, resume, and 2 references to Justine O’Gara, Manager of Camp and Afterschool Programs, at [email protected] or Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, 8480 Hagy’s Mill Road, Philadelphia, PA 19128.

    Please state in the subject line of the email which camp you are most interested in working with – either the 4-5 year old camp or the 6-9 year old camp. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until all positions are filled.

    Please no phone calls for application submissions, thank you!

    The Schuylkill Center is an Equal Opportunity employer and provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, ancestry, national origin, citizenship, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, and pregnancy-related conditions), gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age, disability, genetic information, service in the military, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ordinances.

  • 4-7s Camp Coordinator

    Camp Schuylkill is an environmentally-focused program that strives to give children the opportunity to explore and learn about their relationship to the natural world. Week-long, themed programs offer young learners a chance for in-depth explorations of a variety of nature-related topics. We are seeking a highly motivated, energetic, creative leader who has experience working with preschool-aged children and a solid understanding of child development and age-appropriate pedagogy at the preschool level.

    The 4-7s Camp Coordinator will work from 8:30 am–4:30 pm Monday–Friday.

    Duties include: 

    • Planning and implementing activities for the 4-7 year old camp groups
    • Supervising and mentoring 4-7s camp staff (7 educators total)
    • Assisting the managers of other camp groups with training week for all educators
    • Stepping in to work with camp groups on an as-needed basis
    • Serving as the main point of contact for 4-7s groups
    • Communicating with camper families when counselors cannot resolve issues
    • Mentoring 4-7s camp staff on child development and age-appropriate pedagogy, including working together on creative solutions to behavioral challenges

    Qualifications:

    Required

    • Applicants must be 22 years or older
    • At least 3 years experience working with children ages 4-7 year olds
    • A solid understanding of child development and age-appropriate pedagogy at the preschool level
    • Comfortable in the outdoors and all weather conditions
    • Ability to supervise and mentor multiple staff members with compassion and effective communication
    • Demonstrated ability to be a positive role model for staff and campers
    • Strong communication skills and confidence in leading staff and campers
    • Experience in developing nature-based activities for preschool-aged children
    • Ability to effectively problem solve and work with staff on creative solutions to problems

    Helpful But Not Required

    • Familiarity with working with children in an outdoor setting
    • An understanding of how to best support children with special needs and/or varying abilities
    • Associate or Bachelor’s Degree or major in Environmental Science, Education, Early Childhood Education, Biology, Botany, Horticulture, Agriculture, Outdoor Leadership, or related field

    Background Clearances: If hired, employees are responsible for providing a valid Pennsylvania child abuse clearance, state criminal background check, FBI criminal background check, Mandated Reporter training, and other background checks that the Schuylkill Center requires based on the applicant’s state residency. First Aid/CPR training will be provided to applicants who don’t currently have it. Additionally, as of September 2021, all hires are required to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination.

    Dates of Employment: The position begins on May 27th, 2025, and ends on August 15, 2025. The camp will be closed on Thursday, June 19 and Friday, July 4 for the Independence Day holiday.

    Compensation: $17.50/hr paid biweekly, housing is not provided. 

    To apply: Please send a letter of interest, resume, and 2 references to Justine O’Gara, Manager of Camp and Afterschool Programs, at [email protected] or Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, 8480 Hagy’s Mill Road, Philadelphia, PA 19128. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

    Please no phone calls for application submissions, thank you!

    The Schuylkill Center is an Equal Opportunity employer and provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, ancestry, national origin, citizenship, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, and pregnancy-related conditions), gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age, disability, genetic information, service in the military, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ordinances

  • 8-12s Camp Coordinator 

    Camp Schuylkill is an environmentally focused program that strives to give children the opportunity to explore and learn about their relationship to the natural world. Week-long, themed programs offer young learners a chance for in-depth explorations of a variety of nature-related topics. We are seeking a highly motivated, energetic, creative leader who has experience working with elementary school-aged children and a solid understanding of child development and age-appropriate pedagogy at the elementary school level.

    The 8-12s Camp Coordinator will work from 8:30 am–4:30 pm Monday–Friday.

    Duties include: 

    • Planning and implementing activities for the 8-12 year old camp groups that align with weekly themes
    • Supervising and mentoring 8-12 year old camp staff (8 educators total)
    • Assisting the managers of other camp groups with training week for all educators
    • Stepping in to work with camp groups on an as-needed basis
    • Serving as the main point of contact for the 8-12 year old camp groups
    • Communicating with camper families
    • Mentoring 8-12 year old camp staff on child development and age-appropriate pedagogy, including working together on creative solutions to behavioral challenges

    Qualifications:

    Required

    • Applicants must be 22 years or older
    • A solid understanding of child development and age-appropriate pedagogy at the 8-12 year old level
    • At least 3 years experience working with children ages 8-12
    • Comfortable in the outdoors and all weather conditions
    • Ability to supervise and mentor multiple staff members with compassion and effective communication
    • Demonstrated ability to be a positive role model for staff and campers
    • Strong communication skills and confidence in leading staff and campers
    • Experience in developing nature-based activities for elementary/middle school-aged children
    • Ability to effectively problem solve and work with staff on creative solutions to problems
    • Ability to be flexible and maintain a positive attitude throughout camp

    Helpful but not required

    • Familiarity with working with children in an outdoor setting
    • An understanding of how to best support children with special needs and/or varying abilities
    • Associate or Bachelor’s Degree or major in Environmental Science, Education, Early Childhood Education, Biology, Botany, Horticulture, Agriculture, Outdoor Leadership, or related field

    Background Clearances: If hired, employees are responsible for providing a valid Pennsylvania child abuse clearance, state criminal background check, FBI criminal background check, Mandated Reporter training, and other background checks that the Schuylkill Center requires based on the applicant’s state residency. First Aid/CPR training will be provided to applicants who don’t currently have it.  Additionally, as of September 2021, all hires are required to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination.

     

    Dates of Employment: The position begins on May 27th, 2025, and ends on August 15, 2025. The camp will be closed on Thursday, June 19 and Friday, July 4 for the Independence Day holiday.

    Compensation: $17.50/hr paid biweekly, housing is not provided. 

    To apply: Please send a letter of interest, resume, and 2 references to Justine O’Gara, Manager of Camp and Afterschool Programs, at [email protected] or Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, 8480 Hagy’s Mill Road, Philadelphia, PA 19128. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

    Please no phone calls for application submissions, thank you!

    The Schuylkill Center is an Equal Opportunity employer and provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, ancestry, national origin, citizenship, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, and pregnancy-related conditions), gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age, disability, genetic information, service in the military, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ordinances.

  • 10 – 12s Summer Camp Environmental Educator

    Camp Schuylkill’s 10–12 year old program is an environmentally focused adventure camp for pre-teens. Week-long programs are designed to challenge campers emotionally, physically, and socially in a safe and supportive environment. We are seeking highly motivated, energetic leaders to plan and facilitate adventure-based outdoor activities for students between the ages of 10–12 that align with a weekly theme. Leaders should be comfortable creating a community atmosphere that encourages students to step outside of their comfort zones.

    In this camp, the first day is spent on the Schuylkill Center campus in a day camp setting: exploring the forests, ponds, and streams on-site while keeping focus on the overall theme of the week. The next three days are spent doing day trips throughout the Greater Philadelphia area. Day trips align with weekly themes and include rock climbing, ziplining, visiting local cultural institutions, canoeing, hiking, and more. Five of the nine camp weeks include one night spent camping at the Schuylkill Center.

    Educators in this position are required to commit to all nine weeks of camp plus seven training days. Educators will work 8:30 am–4:30 pm Monday–Friday with the exception being the five overnights at the Schuylkill Center.

    Duties include Leading team-building activities, supervising outdoor recreation activities, keeping participants engaged and focused, planning portions of the trips, maintaining camping equipment and specialized outdoor education equipment (on overnight weeks), leading or assisting hikes, cooking meals and cleaning up campsites (on overnight weeks), participating in outdoor adventure activities such as biking, canoeing, swimming, and climbing, and photographing the students engaging in their camp experience. Seven days of paid training will be provided.

    Qualifications: 

    Required

    • Applicants must be 22 years or older
    • Comfortable in the outdoors and in all weather conditions
    • Demonstrated ability to be a positive role model for participants
    • Experience camping, cooking meals, and planning camping trips
    • Experience working with children; capable of supervising pre-teens on day and overnight trips
    • Strong communication skills and confidence in leading groups
    • Ability to be flexible and maintain a positive attitude throughout camp
    • Have a valid driver’s license and be able to drive a 10-passenger van (training provided)

    Helpful but not required

    • Familiarity with outdoor recreation and natural sciences
    • An understanding of how to best support children with special needs and/or varying abilities
    • Associate or Bachelor’s Degree or major in Environmental Science, Education, Early Childhood Education, Biology, Botany, Horticulture, Agriculture, Outdoor Leadership, or related field

    Background Clearances:  If hired, employees are responsible for providing a valid Pennsylvania child abuse clearance, state criminal background check, FBI criminal background check, Mandated Reporter training, and other background checks that the Schuylkill Center requires based on the applicant’s state residency. First Aid/CPR training will be provided to applicants who don’t currently have it.  Additionally, as of September 2021, all hires are required to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination.

    Dates of Employment: The position begins on June 5, 2025, and ends on August 15, 2025. (June 5-6 and June 9-13 are mandatory training dates.) The camp will be closed on Thursday, June 19 and Friday, July 4 for the Independence Day holiday.

    Compensation: $17.00/hr paid biweekly. Educators are required to commit to all nine weeks of camp plus seven days of training and one day of cleanup post-camp. Educators will work 8:30 am–4:30 pm Monday–Friday.

    To apply:  Please send a letter of interest, resume, and 2 references to Justine O’Gara, Manager of Camp and Afterschool Programs, at [email protected] or Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, 8480 Hagy’s Mill Road, Philadelphia, PA 19128. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until all positions are filled.

    Please no phone calls for application submissions, thank you!

    The Schuylkill Center is an Equal Opportunity employer and provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, ancestry, national origin, citizenship, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, and pregnancy-related conditions), gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age, disability, genetic information, service in the military, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ordinances.

  • Activities & Aftercare Coordinator

    Camp Schuylkill is an environmentally focused program that strives to give children the opportunity to explore and learn about their relationship to the natural world. Week-long, themed programs offer campers ages 4-12 a chance for in-depth explorations of a variety of nature-related topics. We are seeking a highly motivated, energetic, creative leader who has experience working with children of various ages and a solid understanding of child development and age-appropriate pedagogy.

    The Activities & Aftercare Coordinator will work from 10:00 AM – 6:00 pm Monday–Friday.

    Duties include: 

    • Plan, lead and supervise campers/aftercare with outdoor and indoor recreational activities
    • Work actively with other staff, supervisors, and CITs to facilitate a safe and fun camping

    experience

    • Plan or implement activities and games that are appropriate for the age and ability of the individuals attending camp
    • Monitor activities during summer camp programming
    • Assisting the managers of other camp groups with training week for all educators
    • Serving as the main point of contact for aftercare
    • Mentoring aftercare camp staff on child development and age-appropriate pedagogy, including working together on creative solutions to behavioral challenges
    • Report any behavior incidents to your supervisor through written and verbal communication
    • Assist in preparing weekly activities
    • Monitor lunchtime/set-up/clean-up if needed
    • Maintain inventory for supplies and first aid areas
    • All other duties as assigned

    Qualifications:

    Required

    • Applicants must be 22 years or older
    • A solid understanding of child development and age-appropriate pedagogy
    • At least 2 years of experience working with children ages 4-12 year olds
    • Comfortable in the outdoors and all weather conditions
    • Ability to supervise and mentor multiple staff members with compassion and effective communication
    • Demonstrated ability to be a positive role model for staff and campers
    • Strong communication skills and confidence in leading staff and campers
    • Experience in developing nature-based activities for children
    • Ability to effectively problem solve and work with staff on creative solutions to problems

    Helpful But Not Required

    • Familiarity with working with children in an outdoor setting
    • An understanding of how to best support children with special needs and/or varying abilities
    • Experience with canoeing and other aquatics programming
    • Associate or Bachelor’s Degree or major in Environmental Science, Education, Early Childhood Education, Biology, Botany, Horticulture, Agriculture, Outdoor Leadership, or related field

    Background Clearances: If hired, employees are responsible for providing a valid Pennsylvania child abuse clearance, state criminal background check, FBI criminal background check, Mandated Reporter training, and other background checks that the Schuylkill Center requires based on the applicant’s state residency. First Aid/CPR training will be provided to applicants who don’t currently have it. Additionally, as of September 2021, all hires are required to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination.

    Dates of Employment: The position begins on May 27th, 2025, and ends on August 15, 2025. The camp will be closed on Thursday, June 19 and Friday, July 4 for the Independence Day holiday.

    Compensation: $17.50/hr paid biweekly, housing is not provided. 

    To apply: Please send a letter of interest, resume, and 2 references to Justine O’Gara, Manager of Camp and Afterschool Programs, at [email protected] or Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, 8480 Hagy’s Mill Road, Philadelphia, PA 19128. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

    Please no phone calls for application submissions, thank you!

    The Schuylkill Center is an Equal Opportunity employer and provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, ancestry, national origin, citizenship, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, and pregnancy-related conditions), gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age, disability, genetic information, service in the military, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ordinances.

  • Summer Aftercare Educator

    The Schuylkill Center’s camp aftercare program is an environmentally focused program dedicated to letting children immerse themselves in nature through free play and exploration. Free, unstructured play is a vital part of a child’s development to build strong, social, and cognitive skills. We are seeking highly motivated, energetic, creative leaders to facilitate and oversee the program for children between the ages of 4–12 years old.

    This is a part-time position with the hours of 3:00–6:00 PM, Monday through Friday.

    Duties include:

    • Supervising outdoor recreation activities and unstructured free play
    • Providing a safe atmosphere for children during aftercare
    • Easing the transition of children from camp group to aftercare
    • Leading hikes for children to various locations
    • Communicating with families about camper’s behavior if needed

    Qualifications:

    Required

    • Applicants must be 15 years or older
    • Comfortable in the outdoors
    • Demonstrated ability to be a positive role model for participants
    • Experience working with children
    • Strong communication skills and confidence in leading groups
    • Ability to engage children in fun and creative hands-on learning opportunities

    Helpful But Not Required

    • Familiarity with outdoor recreation and natural sciences
    • An understanding of how to best support children with special needs and/or varying abilities
    • Associate or Bachelor’s degree or major in Environmental Science, Education, Early Childhood Education, Biology, Botany, Horticulture, Agriculture, Outdoor Leadership, or related field

    Background Clearances: If hired, employees are responsible for providing a valid Pennsylvania child abuse clearance, state criminal background check, FBI criminal background check, Mandated Reporter training, and other background checks that the Schuylkill Center requires based on the applicant’s state residency. First Aid/CPR training will be provided to applicants who don’t currently have it. Additionally, as of September 2021, all hires are required to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination.

    Dates of Employment: The position begins on June 5, 2025, and ends on August 15, 2025. (June 5-6 and June 9-13 are mandatory training dates.) The camp will be closed on Thursday, June 19 and Friday, July 4 for the Independence Day holiday.

    Compensation: $15/hr paid biweekly. Educators are required to commit to all nine weeks of camp plus seven days of training. Educators will work  3:00–6:00 PM, Monday through Friday.

    To apply: Please send a letter of interest, resume, and 2 references to Justine O’Gara, Manager of Camp and Afterschool Programs, at [email protected] or Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, 8480 Hagy’s Mill Road, Philadelphia, PA 19128. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until all positions are filled.

    Please no phone calls for application submissions, thank you!

    The Schuylkill Center is an Equal Opportunity employer and provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, ancestry, national origin, citizenship, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, and pregnancy-related conditions), gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age, disability, genetic information, service in the military, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ordinances.


The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education is dedicated to being an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by law and our core values.