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Environmental Education Camp Counselor (Summer 2026)

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)
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To apply, send resume, cover letter, and unofficial transcripts to CampEmploy@dec.ny.gov Interviews for summer 2026 have begun!

Join the NYS DEC as an Environmental Education Camp Counselor and ignite a passion for nature, learning, and personal growth among young explorers! In this dynamic role, you will lead engaging outdoor activities, facilitate educational lessons about the environment, and create a safe, inclusive space where children can discover the wonders of nature. Your enthusiasm and dedication will inspire campers to develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world while fostering their social and emotional skills. This position offers a fantastic opportunity to make a meaningful impact while gaining valuable experience in environmental education, outdoor recreation, and leadership. 

Camp Counselors earn $8,150 for the 10-week season, plus room and board. This is a state position and staff have the option to join the CSEA union (which offers tuition reimbursement) and the NYS retirement fund.

About DEC Camps:

DEC Camps have four overnight environmental education summer camps run by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation. Our four summer camps are in Saranac Lake, Lake George, the Catskills, and Allegany. Our popular and engaging programs draw 11–17-year-old youth from across New York State for life changing experiences in the outdoors. The camp season starts in early June and runs through mid-August. The work week is from Sunday afternoon through Friday afternoon.

Specific duties include, but not limited to:

Instructing campers a 11 - 17 on:

  • Core Environmental Science Curricula
  • Outdoor Skills & Recreational Activities
  • Being an Environmental Steward

Supervising campers to ensure health, safety, and well-being:

  • In-cabin, overnight, during meals, on a 24-hour basis
  • During weekly overnight camp-outs
  • During recreation & waterfront activities
  • Who become homesick or disruptive
  • By administering first aid if necessary

Working as a team with fellow counselors & director team to:

  • Develop & implement plans for education, recreation, and work projects
  • Support in the development and completion of camp activities
  • Maintain inventory of supplies, materials, and equipment
  • Assist director team in the development of daily, weekly and seasonal schedules

Requirements:

At least 48 college credits, at least 12 credits of which are in STEM, Education, or Outdoor Recreation

OR 2 years of work experience in the following fields:

  • Natural resources, environmental studies, environmental education, outdoor recreation, STEM [Science (biology, chemistry, computer, earth, environmental, and physics); Technology; Engineering; Mathematics], elementary-middle-secondary-special education, or camp management

Required Certifications

  • American Red Cross Responding to Emergencies (or equivalent) - Check the Camps Employment page for equivalent certifications
  • CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer (or equivalent) - must be in its first year - Check the Camps Employment page for equivalent certifications
  • Must have and maintain a current Driver’s License

Preferred Advanced Certifications (not required)

  • Waterfront Lifeguard - Waterfront lifeguards are required for all swimming & boating activities
  • Water Safety Instructor (WSI) - May be required to assist Waterfront Director with swim tests
  • NYS Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or higher - May be required to serve as temporary alternate Health Director

* Applicants do not need to currently hold certifications to apply, but must obtain accepted certifications before the start of employment*

 

Preferred Experience:

  • Strong interest in conservation, environmental education, and outdoor recreation
  • Prior experience working with children such as daycare, babysitting, tutoring, coaching, theater arts, or camp counseling is highly desirable
  • Ability to connect with diverse groups of children
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively as part of a team in outdoor or educational environments

 

Embark on this rewarding journey where every day brings new opportunities to inspire curiosity about our planet! We’re excited to welcome passionate individuals committed to nurturing the next generation of environmental stewards. 

 

To apply, send resume, cover letter, and unofficial transcripts to CampEmploy@dec.ny.gov Interviews for summer 2026 have begun!

For more information, visit the NYSDEC website: https://dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/summer-camps/education-camp-employment

The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. Our work would not be possible without the diverse backgrounds, experiences, ideas, and abilities of our employees. DEC is committed to developing a workforce which represents the diverse population of New York State. DEC embraces a diverse and inclusive work environment by encouraging all individuals, including those with disabilities, to apply to open positions at the agency.