Job Description
Job Description
About Mass Audubon
Mass Audubon is the largest nature-based conservation organization in New England. Founded in 1896 by two women who fought for the protection of birds, Mass Audubon carries on their legacy by focusing on the greatest challenges facing the environment today: the loss of biodiversity, inequitable access to nature, and climate change. With the help of our 160,000 members and supporters, we protect wildlife, conserve and restore resilient land, advocate for impactful environmental policies, offer nationally recognized education programs for adults and children, and provide endless opportunities to experience the outdoors at our wildlife sanctuaries. Explore, find inspiration, and take action at massaudubon.org.
About Mass Audubon Camps
Imagine a place where children can develop their interest in the outdoors, play together, and gain comfort and confidence in the natural world. That place is Mass Audubon's summer camp programs. Each day, campers explore and learn in nature, meet new friends, play games, and have fun! Do you want to share your love of nature and build community? Consider joining our camp staff!
About This Position
Drumlin Farm Camp in Lincoln, MA is seeking an individual to foster safe, experiential farm-based activities for campers. We aim to promote positive youth development, stewardship for the environment, and a respectful and inclusive safe space for all our campers.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Work with Livestock Manager to assist in the care and maintenance of the animals (cow, pony, sheep, etc.)
- Develop and deliver curriculum and lessons about cow and pony that is appropriate for the age and ability of campers
- Instruct campers and staff on safety around large livestock animals and ensure safety of campers and animals during interactions
- Support groups outside of barn activities and may be asked to serve as substitute counselor as needed
- Create a physically and emotionally safe environment for campers, staff, and animals
- Additional related duties may be requested such as helping with camper groups and providing additional supervision and support to camp as a whole
Qualifications
At Mass Audubon, our highest priority is finding the best candidate for the job. Research has shown that people of color and women are less likely to apply for jobs if they don’t believe they meet every one of the qualifications described in a job description. We encourage you to apply, even if you don't believe you meet every one of our described qualifications or you have a less traditional background.
Required qualifications as per Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MA DPH) regulations, American Camp Association standards and Mass Audubon Policy:
- Must be 18+
- Have 4+ weeks experience working with children (including, but not limited to: babysitting, volunteering, or experience with younger siblings)
- Have 4+ weeks of experience working with farm animals
- Must hold current First Aid and CPR certifications or be willing to obtain them before the start of the summer (we will offer a free class)
- Provide documented proof of immunity or vaccination record as mandated by MA DPH; complete camp health form and waiver
- Participate in mandated, paid camp training and utilize learning including: farm animal safety, communication, group management, health and safety, and teaching techniques
- Be willing to manage a group outdoors for six hours a day in most weather conditions
- Physically access sanctuary terrain easily by foot
- Ability to effectively interact with others, especially children, in camp’s youth-centered environment
- Ability to adapt to changes in schedule and work assignment
Desired Qualifications
- Have strong interest, education, or experience in Animal Science/husbandry, Agriculture, Health, Education or similar topics
- Experience working with horses, cows, or other large animals strongly preferred
Perks of Working at Mass Audubon
- Free First Aid/CPR training class offered to staff in June
- “Pro- Deal” discounts on outdoor clothing, equipment and more
- Network with Mass Audubon staff (Conservation, Education, Climate Science, etc.)
Compensation and Benefits
This position’s pay range is $18.28-$21.00/hour. The range for this position is based on three levels that coincide with the candidate’s level of experience, qualifications relative to position requirements, and/or location. This is not a benefits eligible position.
Work Schedule
Camp staff training will be held from June 9-20, 2025. Camp runs from June 23-August 22, 2025. Hours for this position are Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:00pm.
All Mass Audubon Camp Staff undergo mandatory training prior to interacting with campers. If you have a strong desire to work with campers in an outdoor environment and are interested in learning how to teach and effectively lead groups, please apply.
Other Requirements
Employees must successfully complete a CORI and SORI Background Check and a Motor Vehicle Record (if applicable) is required.
Mass Audubon’s Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Justice
Mass Audubon embraces diversity and equal opportunity in a serious way. We are dedicated to forming a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. People of color are strongly encouraged to apply.
Mass Audubon’s mission is to “protect the nature of Massachusetts for people and for wildlife” by building a strong coalition of employees, volunteers, and community members. We recognize that the environmental movement and field of conservation have been affected by societal systems that have limited opportunity and access for many people. As a result, Mass Audubon is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. We are engaged in an ongoing process of organizational assessment and change, designed to remove barriers and create a workplace where all forms of diversity are recognized and valued.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Mass Audubon is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. Mass Audubon prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.