Garden/Farm Educator

Principal Responsibilities: Engage in pre-arrival discussions with year-round staff members to coordinate garden set up before arrival. Plant, water, prune, and harvest fruits, vegetables, and herbs as needed. Maintain a presentable appearance for the garden, including weeding and pest-maintenance, using only natural/organic practices. Plan and lead hands-on gardening activities for campers (ages 7-15), staff, and guests that include planting, tending, harvesting, tasting, and/or cooking. Plan programs and activities 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. When possible, coordinate with Jewish program specialists and Teva (nature) specialists to create synergies between the three programs. Oversee a 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. Be willing to request help, advice, and feedback from peers and/or supervisors. Serve in shmira (night watch) rotation as scheduled (residential staff, only) Help prepare camp for opening at beginning of summer and final clean up at end of summer. Be consistent. Remember that you, too, are worthy of rest and renewal. Take care of yourself. Minimum 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 Agency Information: Since 1902, Surprise Lake Camp has provided a haven for children in the beautiful mountains of Cold Spring, NY. What makes SLC the best is the beauty of the site, the richness of the people and the program, the sense of history and tradition, and the magic we create when the whole thing comes together. 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.

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