• Send an email to the appropriate department: either director@cayuganaturecenter.org, team@cayuganaturecenter.org , or camp@cayuganaturecenter.org

• Stop by the Nature Center at:

  Cayuga Nature Center, Inc.
  1420 Taughannock Blvd
  Ithaca, NY 14850

• Call the Nature Center at: (607) 273-6260
• FAX us at: (607) 273-1719

CAMP DIRECTOR

Description
Cayuga Nature Center is currently searching for the Camp Director for the 2008 Summer season. CNC Camp Director will be responsible for the overall operation of the Cayuga Nature Center day camp. Those responsibilities are designing camp program, overseeing staff, managing registration and coordinating all camp programs.

Responsibilities
•Overall operation of the Nature Day Camp
•Hiring and supervising all camp staff
•Overseeing staff training
•Coordinating all camp supplies and equipment
•Working with the Assistant Director to lead the daily opening and closing activities
•Coordinating all camp activities
•Overseeing camp registration and all correspondence with parents

Qualifications
•College degree in Environmental Science, Biology, Ecology, Education, or related discipline
•Experience teaching and/or working with groups
•Ability to work independently and as a team player
•Positive and progressive mindset
•Excellent leadership ability
•Previous administrative and supervisory experience in camp environment
•Mature judgment and the ability to safely supervise campers
•Outgoing personality and ability to work with people of all ages
•Background in natural history - environmental education
•A vehicle is mandatory for this position
•At least six months previous supervisory/administrative camp experience
•Minimum age of 21 years
•Certifications in Responding to Emergencies, CPR for the Professional Rescuer, and/or Life guarding are desirable
•Must pass mandatory background check

Salary
Varies with qualifications

Apply
Send cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications along with resume and list of references to Tom Trencansky, Executive Director director@cayuganaturecenter.org

CAMP COUNSELOR

Description
Cayuga Nature Center is currently searching for Camp Counselors for the 2008 Summer seasons. CNC Camp Counselors will be responsible for the welfare of the campers and to provide quality educational activities.

Responsibilities
•Duties include planning and implementing daily activities
•Being actively involved with the children
•Some cleaning/organizing
•Greeting and communicating with parents in an effective and appropriate manner

Qualifications
•Background in natural history - environmental education
•Interest  in Environmental Science, Biology, Ecology, Education, or related discipline
•Experience teaching and/or working with groups
•Ability to work both independently and as a team player
•Positive and progressive mindset
•Excellent leadership ability
•Mature judgment and the ability to safely supervise campers
•Outgoing personality and ability to work with people of all ages
•Certifications in Responding to Emergencies, CPR for the Professional Rescuer, and Life Guarding are desirable

Salary
Varies with qualifications and certifications

Apply
Send cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications along with resume and list of references to Tom Trencansky, Executive Director director@cayuganaturecenter.org 
Cayuga Nature Center
1420 Taughannock Blvd.
Ithaca, NY 14850
(607) 273- 6260
www.cayuganaturecenter.org

ADVENTURE TRIP STAFF

Description
Cayuga Nature Center is currently searching for Adventure Trip Staff for the 2008 Summer season. Adventure Trip Staff will be working a six week program which will include a backpacking trip, canoe trip and four weeks of TEAM Challenge Low and High Ropes program.  The staff will be responsible for the welfare of the campers and for providing quality adventure programming.

Responsibilities
•Assist and plan trip logistics: food and equipment
•Buy and purchase supplies for trip
•Plan programming for campers
•Read and become familiar with the TEAM Challenge Staff Manual
•Understand and enforce all TEAM Challenge Course Policies and Procedures
•Uphold TEAM Challenge Course philosophies and goals
•Assist the Lead Facilitator with scheduled programs, including enthusiastic participation, safety monitoring and involvement in processing
•Modify and adapt activities to meet the needs of the group
•Assist in inspecting Challenge Course elements and trail prior to programs
•Complete Challenge Course set-up and closeout
•Complete all necessary equipment logs and program summaries
•All staff should know the emergency procedures

Qualifications
•Interest  in Adventure Education programs
•Experience teaching and/or working with groups
•Ability to work independently and as a team player
•Positive and progressive mindset
•Excellent leadership ability
•Mature judgment and the ability to safely supervise campers
•Outgoing personality and ability to work with people of all ages
•Background in natural history - environmental education
•Certifications in Responding to Emergencies, CPR for the Professional Rescuer, and Life guarding

Salary
Varies with qualifications and certifications

Apply
Send cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications along with resume and list of references to Tom Trencansky, Executive Director director@cayuganaturecenter.org 
Cayuga Nature Center
1420 Taughannock Blvd.
Ithaca, NY 14850
(607) 273- 6260
www.cayuganaturecenter.org

CAMP HEALTH DIRECTOR (off-site)

Description
Cayuga Nature Center is currently searching for off-site Camp Health Director (CHD) for the 2008 Summer season.  CHD will oversee the health and safety of the camp. They will work closely with the Camp Director and Camp Heath Designee. 

Responsibilities
This is an off-site position which would require the nurse to visit the camp every Monday during the summer camp session opening day 8am-12pm. Camp Heath Director will be responsible for overseeing medical logs, campers and staff health forms, first aide kits, any incidents and accidents will be reported to CHD and documented by appropriate staff and CHD. Other camp health regulations will be monitored by CHD as well. They will work closely with the on-site Health Designee who will maintain the health and welfare of the camp when the Camp Health Director is not present. (This may be the Camp Director and Assistant Director) CHD will maintain daily communication with Camp Director and/or designee.

Qualifications
•Current New York State license as a RN, LPN, EMT or a physician assistant
•Current Responding to Emergencies and CPR for the professional rescuer
•Desire to work in a camp community
•Ability to work both independently and as a team player
•Positive and progressive mindset
•Excellent leadership ability
•Mature judgment and the ability to safely supervise campers
•Outgoing personality and ability to work with people of all ages
•Must be at least 25 years of age

Salary
Varies with qualifications

Apply
Send cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications along with resume and list of references to Tom Trencansky, Executive Director director@cayuganaturecenter.org 
Cayuga Nature Center
1420 Taughannock Blvd.
Ithaca, NY 14850
(607) 273- 6260
www.cayuganaturecenter.org
 

CAMP COUNSELOR / LIFEGUARD

Description
Cayuga Nature Center is currently searching for Camp Counselors for the 2008 Summer seasons. CNC Camp Counselor/Lifeguard will oversee waterfront activities at Taughannock Park three times a week. 

Responsibilities
•Duties include planning and implementing daily activities
•Being actively involved with the children
•Some cleaning/organizing, greeting and communicating with parents in an effective and appropriate manner
•Following Written Safety Plan and overseeing the waterfront activities including buddy system and health and safety measures.

Qualifications
•Interest in Environmental Science, Biology, Ecology, Education, or related discipline
•Experience teaching and/or working with groups
•Ability to work both independently and as a team player
•Positive and progressive mindset
•Excellent leadership ability
•Mature judgment and the ability to safely supervise campers
•Outgoing personality and ability to work with people of all ages
•Background in natural history - environmental education
•Certifications in Responding to Emergencies, CPR for the Professional Rescuer and Life guarding

Salary
Varies with qualifications

Apply
Send cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications along with resume and list of references to Tom Trencansky, Executive Director director@cayuganaturecenter.org 
Cayuga Nature Center
1420 Taughannock Blvd.
Ithaca, NY 14850
(607) 273- 6260
www.cayuganaturecenter.org

EDUCATOR (Year around – Part-time)

Description
Cayuga Nature Center currently has Educator position openings for the 2008 season. CNC educators will offer lessons and activities addressing a wide range of topics relating to natural history and ecology, environmental issues, outdoor living skills and recreation. Group participants range from pre-school children to adults. Educator may be called upon to assist in CNC Spring and Summer Camps. CNC Educator positions are part-time with various hours.

Responsibilities
•Plan and deliver environmental education programs
•Develop program activities and lessons facilitated at the center
•Assist with facility upkeep
•Ability to relate to and communicate with various social/age groups

Qualifications
•Qualifications for Educator positions include a college degree in Environmental Science, Biology, Ecology, Education, or related discipline
•Experience teaching and/or working with groups
•Ability to work both independently and as a team player
•A positive and progressive mindset and an orientation towards working to complete tasks
•Most programs are on site but some require travel to other locations
•Expenses will be paid. A vehicle is mandatory for this position.
•Certifications in Responding to Emergencies and CPR for the Professional are desired.
•Enthusiasm, sense of humor, patience, and self-control

The Cayuga Nature Center is an active community resource and host many weekend events and programs.  All nature center positions require flexibility in weekend hours due to CNC programs.

Salary
Varies with qualifications

Apply
Send cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications along with resume and list of references to Tom Trencansky, Executive Director director@cayuganaturecenter.org 

Cayuga Nature Center
1420 Taughannock Blvd.
Ithaca, NY 14850
(607) 273- 6260
www.cayuganaturecenter.org

TEAM CHALLENGE FACILITATOR (Year around Part-time)

Description
Team Challenge Facilitators will provide excellent programming to our participants.  Facilitators should feel confident on all areas of low and high ropes course and in program design.  (There are also Facilitator Internships for those who are eager to start in this field but who do not have the experience.)

Responsibilities
•Read and become familiar with the TEAM Challenge Staff Manual
•Understand and enforce all TEAM Challenge Course Policies and Procedures
•Uphold TEAM Challenge Course philosophies and goals
•Assist the Lead Facilitator with scheduled programs, including enthusiastic participation, safety monitoring, and involvement in processing
•Modify and adapt activities to meet the needs of the group
•Assist in inspecting Challenge Course elements and trail prior to programs
•Complete Challenge Course set-up and closeout
•Complete all necessary equipment logs and program summaries
•All staff should know the emergency procedures

Qualifications
•High Ropes Course experience or equivalent
•Understanding of the objectives, presentation, and safety concerns of each TEAM Challenge Course element
•Demonstration of specific technical skills (knot craft, belaying skills, rescue techniques)
•Enthusiasm, sense of humor, patience, and self-control
•Ability to relate to and communicate with various social/age groups

The Cayuga Nature Center is an active community resource and host many weekend events and programs.  All nature center positions require flexibility in weekend hours due to programs.

Salary
Varies with qualifications

Apply
Send cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications along with resume and list of references to Jessica Steele, Director of TEAM Challenge team@cayuganaturecenter.org  

Volunteer Opportunities

Education Programs Assistant/Intern
This position provides multiple outlets for working with pre-K nature classes held at CNC, going into elementary classrooms to present nature programs, traveling to libraries and scout troops for demos, designing and creating static displays for the nature center, and researching and creating new ways of communicating with different groups of people.

Trail Guide
Cayuga Nature Center's Trail Guide/Interpreter program allows volunteers to become knowledgeable in one or more topics of their choosing and prepares them to conduct tours for the general public, oriented seasonally to specific trails and points of interest on the property. Examples might include our Treetops Tree-house, Butterfly House, spring wildflower trails or pioneer garden area. Public tour times may be scheduled to occur weekly or bi-weekly during a given season, and can be scheduled to accommodate guides. These tours include:
•Spring wildflowers
•Traditional herbs, flowers and vegetable growing techniques
•Nature art and journaling
•Pioneer lifestyles, agriculture and local history

Animal Keeper
Have you always wanted to work with exotic animals? Help is needed to feed, exercise and present animal shows. Prior experience with animals is not needed but a strong commitment to the Nature Center is required. Animal Keeper volunteers must attend four hours of training before working with the critters unsupervised.
Animal Program Volunteer: We also need really people to run our animal programs.  Applicants should be comfortable with public speaking and dealing with groups of anywhere from 5-20 children.   

Special Events Support/Intern
The talents of volunteers are always needed to staff activities, crafts and exhibition tables, or just providing those extra hands that are so critical during seasonal events, such as Maple Fest and Halloween Capers.

Special Presentations: Music, lectures, story-telling...
Cayuga Nature Center supports a regular schedule of public programs featuring entertainment, as well as enlightenment. We invite all to share their expertise and artistry at our Cayuga Coffee House, at seasonal special events, or even as a special presentation unto itself.

Trail and Exhibits Maintenance
Work outdoors with the Property Manger scouting the trails, mending fences, arranging the landscaping, etc.

Administrative Assistant
Work as an assistant to the Business Manager or Executive Director and help with funding research, grant writing, contacting members, promoting the business and generally helping in the office by answering phones, responding to emails and organizing records.
Please contact Tom Trencansky at 607-273-6260 for more details.

TEAM Challenge Internships
   
Adventure Ropes Course Support Intern
Depending on interest and experience, this position may include involvement in all aspects of management and operation of a thriving ropes course based on the Project Adventure Model. Areas of potential involvement include:
•Facilitation of adventure programs
•Course inspection, maintenance and development
•Program development and marketing
•Staff/ Facilitator training and development
•Administrative support, database management

Interns may also have the opportunity to choose to focus on particular applications of adventure programming, such as: therapeutic applications, programs for youth, college populations, leadership development, corporate and professional applications, or conflict resolution.

On-the-Job Training:
While experience in adventure education is preferred, internships include free attendance to TEAM Challenge trainings and symposiums.

Requirements:
•Experience with adventure learning and ropes courses is strongly preferred.
•Familiarity with climbing gear or rock climbing is a plus.
•Computer literacy (Word Perfect, Word, Excel, Access, and Lotus 123) is a plus.
•Maturity, strong people skills, team spirit, and self-directedness are essential.
 
Commitment:
A one-semester (3 month or greater) minimum commitment is strongly preferred. Multi-semester internships are ideal. Hours Number of hours/week will be set based on availability and any academic requirements.

Contact Jessica Steele,  Director TEAM Challenge Program at Cayuga Nature Center Phone: (607) 273-6260

SUMMER Internships & Volunteer Opportunities 

• Unpaid internships are available for credit in any of the listed positions.
• ALL AGES ARE WELCOME TO APPLY!!!
• Make sure you have transportation from a parent or through TCAT bus services.

Please contact Tom Trencansky at 607-273-6260 for more details about the following volunteer opportunities.

Bobcats Counselors in Training

Volunteer with our summer camp program as a counselor in training.

Camp Kitchen Assistant

• Responsible for set-up and clean-up of the kitchen during camp snack times
• Must be present from 10-11:30am for a morning shift or 2-3:30pm for an afternoon shift
• Requires a will to learn how to use a commercial kitchen

Camp Craft Assistant

• Responsible for set-up and clean-up of the craft station during camp
• Will also help campers in the making of crafts
• A morning shift is from 9-11:30am and afternoon shift is 1:30-4:30.
• Requires a creative/artistic nature

Assistant Butterfly Keeper

• Responsible for leading educational tours through our Butterfly House to the general public and for care of the butterfly nursery
• Tours operate 2pm M-F and last about 30 minutes. 
• Must be available at least one day a week
• Requires an outgoing attitude for public speaking

Guest Speakers/Presenters
Do you have an interesting job? How about knowledge or a skill you would like to share with our campers? We are on the look out for members of the community who are willing to spend an hour of their time interacting with kids at camp. Call for more details.

Job Applications

You have several options for applying for a job with Cayuga Nature Center:

• Send an email to the appropriate department: either director@cayuganaturecenter.org, team@cayuganaturecenter.org , or camp@cayuganaturecenter.org

• Stop by the Nature Center at:

  Cayuga Nature Center, Inc.
  1420 Taughannock Blvd
  Ithaca, NY 14850

• Call the Nature Center at: (607) 273-6260
• FAX us at: (607) 273-1719
  

Last Updated May 11, 2008