Opportunities

        See Open Job Positions Below:

Riverbend Summer Camp at McKaig Full Time Counselor

Dates:

• Training June 1st - June 5th
• June 22 – July 31, 2026 8:45 am -3:45 pm (Monday – Friday 30-40 hrs a week, with weekends off)

Why You Should Work for Us:

Riverbend Summer Camp at McKaig Nature Center is the perfect place for someone looking for a fun and rewarding job in the great outdoors. Spend your summer outside with us as we nurture the future generation of earth-lovers. If you are considering a career in education or environmental sciences, this job is the perfect resume-builder for you!

We’re Looking for Co-Counselors Who Are:

• Self-motivated, energetic, and passionate about working with children

• Ready to spend full days outdoors and embrace the summer heat

• Willing to work collaboratively in a co-counselor setting, sharing equal responsibility in leading campers

• Committed to creating a fun, safe, and educational experience for our campers

Camp Counselor Position:

Riverbend is seeking self-motivated, energetic, and passionate counselors to be a part of the staff of Riverbend’s Summer Camp at the McKaig Nature Center. Each week, children ages 5-10 come to McKaig’s 89-acre Wayne site for outdoor hands-on exploration and discovery. Riverbend Camp at McKaig is hosted at the Old Roberts Schoolhouse, with ample shade and a cool stream for campers to relax and play. The atmosphere is friendly and child-centered. Curriculum is interpreted and delivered by professional staff with a strong emphasis on exploring and expanding children’s interests and stimulating investigation in nature. Groups are generally 10-12 children and are led by two co-counselors.

Key Responsibilities:

• Co-lead outdoor education activities and assist with independent facilitation of activities

• Support co-counselors with behavioral and group management

• Mentor teen volunteers

• Assist with daily facility upkeep, animal care, and after-care activities

• Attend off site field trips as needed to support the campers

Camp Counselor Qualifications:

• Successful completion of background checks (criminal, FBI fingerprint, and child abuse history clearance)

• Interest in Environmental Education, Ecology, Elementary Ed or related fields

• Some experience in child education or management (formal or informal) encouraged

• Strong communication skills

• Ability to work additional hours/days at our Gladwyne location preferred!

• Passion for Riverbend’s mission

Compensation: $19 per hour

Job Type: Full-time, Seasonal

Riverbend Summer Camp at The Wetherill School Preschool Summer Camp Counselor

Dates: July 6th– August 14th, 2026

Hours: Full time, appx. 35-40 hours per week; Monday – Friday 8:30am – 4:30pm (some evenings required)

Compensation: $19 per hour

Camper Ages: 4-6 years old

Location: The Wetherill School 1321 Beaumont Dr, Gladwyne, PA 19035

Program:

Riverbend Environmental Education Center believes that amazing things happen when a child spends time in nature.

Studies show that when kids spend time in nature they:

• Think more creatively and critically

• Are more social and less likely to be bullied or experience bullying

• Feel less stressed, allowing their emotional development to flourish

• Increase their fitness level and distance vision.

Riverbend is seeking self-motivated, energetic, and passionate educators to be a part of the staff of Riverbend’s newest offsite Preschool Summer Camp at The Wetherill School. Each week, children come to The Wetherill School for outdoor hands-on exploration and discovery. Campers at the Wetherill have a balance of time exploring outdoors and enjoying storytimes, free play, and further activities in an air-conditioned classroom provided by the Wetherill School. The atmosphere is friendly and child-centered. Curriculum is interpreted and delivered by professional staff with a strong emphasis on exploring and expanding children’s interests and stimulating investigation in nature. Groups are 12 children maximum and are led by a lead educator and supported by an assistant educator.

Camp counselors are responsible for working together to create a positive camp experience for a group of campers each week. This includes implementing activities for the campers, and behavior and safety management.

Responsibilities:

• Working with our Wetherill Coordinator to facilitate outdoor, environmental education activities and experiences for campers.

• Adapt activities as necessary for camper age, interest and outdoor conditions.

• Navigate behavioral and group management.

• General upkeep of the facility each day.

Qualifications:

• Successful completion of pre-employment screening including criminal background check, FBI fingerprint check, and Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance.

• Interest in Environmental Education, Biology, Ecology or other related field

• Some experience educating and managing children formally or informally is encouraged

• Strong oral communication skills

• Ability to work a flexible schedule which will include early mornings, late afternoons and occasional overnights.

• Ability to follow all COVID-19 safety procedures

• Passionate about Riverbend’s mission

Physical and Medical Standards:

• Ability to work actively outdoors during the hot summer months and in all weather conditions.

• Ability to work independently and in groups

• No allergy to plants, animals or chemicals that may be used on the job that may interfere with ability to perform work.

• Ability to safely lift, carry, and load 40 lbs at a distance of 50 ft.

• No impairment of sight, smell, hearing, touch, balance or agility of movement (which cannot be corrected with appropriate devices) that may interfere with ability to perform work.

To apply:

Please email Ken Guadagnino, our Camp Manager, with your resume and cover letter at: camps@riverbendeec.org

Feel free to reach out regarding any questions you may have regarding the position!

Afternoon Part-Time Camp Counselor

Dates:

• Training June 1nd-June 5th
• June 8 – September 4 1:00pm – 6:00pm
• Monday – Friday, 25 hrs a week with weekends & Juneteenth off
• Note: Counselors will be scheduled for one of the two shifts, either morning or afternoon, based on camp needs.

Why You Should Work for Us:
Riverbend Summer Camp offers a rewarding and exciting job for those passionate
about working outdoors with kids. As a co-counselor, you will share equal responsibility with your partner in leading groups of children through engaging outdoor experiences. We’re looking for people who can handle the heat and are committed to staying active outside with kids all day: hiking, stream-walking, arts and crafts, and games in the shade. If you're considering a career in education or environmental science, this role is a perfect way to build your resume while making a meaningful impact.

What We Do:
At Riverbend, we believe amazing things happen when kids spend time in nature.
Research shows that outdoor time enhances children’s creativity, social skills, emotional development, fitness, and vision. Every week, kids gather at our 30-acre Gladwyne site for hands-on exploration and discovery, all within a friendly, child-centered environment. Our team supports children in expanding their interests, stimulating curiosity, and fostering meaningful connections with nature.

We’re Looking for Counselors Who Are:

• Self-motivated, energetic, and passionate about working with children
• Ready to embrace working outdoors, even in the summer heat
• Willing to share equal responsibility with your co-counselor in leading campers
• Committed to creating a fun, safe, and educational experience for campers

Part-Time Camp Counselor Position:
As a part-time Camp Counselor, you will be scheduled for either a morning or afternoon shift. You will support lead counselors throughout the day, assist with planning and facilitating activities, and ensure the safety and engagement of campers. You'll also be ready to fill in for absent counselors and help with camp errands as needed.

Key Responsibilities:

• Close the camp building and support aftercare alongside Camp Administrator
• Support counselors throughout the day to ensure smooth camp operations
• Fill in for absent counselors as needed to maintain group continuity
• Run errands and assist with logistics to keep camp running smoothly
• Plan and prepare engaging outdoor activities for campers
• Assist with facility upkeep, animal care, and after-care activities
• Attend off-site field trips to support campers as needed

Camp Counselor Qualifications:

• Successful completion of background checks (criminal, FBI fingerprint, and child abuse history clearance)
• Interest in Environmental Education, Ecology, Elementary Ed or related fields
• Some experience in child education or management (formal or informal) encouraged
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to work early mornings, late afternoons, and occasional overnights
• Passion for Riverbend’s mission

Compensation:
Camp Counselor: $19 per hour

To Apply:
Please email Ken Guadagnino, our Summer Camp Manager at:
camps@riverbendeec.org, including your resume and cover letter.

We’re looking for dedicated individuals who are ready to work hard, have fun, and make lasting memories this summer at Riverbend!

Gladwyne Summer Camp Educators-In-Training (EITs)

Dates:

• A minimum of 3 weeks between June 8th – September 4th; Monday –  Friday, 8:30am – 4:00pm
• Weeks must be scheduled prior to the start of the summer and do not need to be consecutive
• Mandatory EIT Training Saturday May 30, 2025 10am-1pm

Position type: Seasonal volunteer

Program:
At Riverbend, amazing things happen when a child spends time in nature.
Studies show that when kids spend time in nature, they:

• Think more creatively and critically
• Are more social and less likely to be bullied or experience bullying
• Feel less stressed, allowing their emotional development to flourish
• Increase their fitness level and distance vision.

Riverbend is looking for energetic and motivated students between the ages of 15 and 18 to assist on a volunteer-basis with our summer camp program and have a positive impact on the lives and education of young children. Educators-In-Training will spend their time assisting professional educators and assistant educators with group management, daily activities, modeling of appropriate behavior, and providing nurturing support for campers. In addition, EITs will get to participate in activities with the children, including games, nature exploration, field trips, and more. EITs work primarily with our youngest campers and are a vital part to the success of the program.

Returning EITs are eligible to apply to be paid as long as they are a rising Junior or
older. Pay rate is $10/hr, with paid EIT slots awarded based on seniority. Previous EITs are also prioritized when applying for Riverbend counselor positions!

Pre-requisites:

• Some experience caring for children, whether that be previous volunteer work, babysitting, or taking care of siblings at home!
• Interest working with multiple age groups of children.
• An excitement for the great outdoors and a passion for sharing it with children.
• A dedication to Riverbend’s mission to care for children & introduce them to nature

Responsibilities: 
EIT’s perform a vital role in Riverbend's summer camp program.  Depending on the
EIT’s time and growth in the position there will be potential for increased responsibilities throughout the summer including but not limited to check in and check out, leading a program, and planning and implementing lessons.

Basic duties include:

• Assisting camp staff with assigned tasks that help with the general management of educational groups, primarily for children 5-8 years of age.
• Providing a role model for the younger children on the appropriate ways to behave at camp and how to successfully explore the natural world.
• Assisting with the leading of Circle Time.
• Assisting with implementation of lesson plans and activities.
• Assisting with the clean-up of education spaces, including picnic areas, outdoor classroom, supply room and others.
• Assisting with camper lunch.

Qualifications:

• Successful completion of pre-employment screening including Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance and criminal background check.
• Ability to work actively outdoors during the hot summer months and in all weather conditions.
• No allergy to plants, animals or chemicals that may be used on the job that may interfere with ability to perform work.
• Ability to safely lift and carry 50 pounds for 25 feet.
• No impairment of sight, smell, hearing, touch, balance or agility of movement (which cannot be corrected with appropriate devices) that may interfere with ability to perform work.

To apply:
Please email Ken Guadagnino, our Summer Camp Manager at:
camps@riverbendeec.org, including your resume and three references.

Thank you so much for considering joining Riverbend’s growing summer camp
community! By taking part in our EIT program, you will build your resume, gain
valuable leadership experience, meet new people, and have a fantastic summer
outdoors!

Environmental Educator and Event Assistant (Part-time)

Dates: Typically 1-3 days per week; must be available for morning, afternoon, weekend, and occasional overnight hours

Salary: $20/hour, depending on experience

Job Type: Part-time

Benefits: Flexible schedule

Work Location: In person

Responsibilities:

• Educators will work primarily with pre-K to 1st grade in classroom programs, school groups visiting Riverbend, and as a substitute teacher for our Caregiver and Me program. Educators will also teach a variety of ages as required.
• Educators will deliver curriculum in area classrooms with live animals.
• Educators will independently travel to schools through the Philadelphia School District, accounting for traffic and time to stop for supplies.
• Educators will be required to implement pre-written, inquiry-based lesson plans and differentiate them as needed, based on the needs of the group
• Educators’ responsibilities will include group management, crowd control, and set-up and break-down of supplies and materials used for school visits
• Educators are expected to both work together as a team and function independently
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications and Competencies

• At least one year of experience working with children in outdoor settings. Experience with early childhood preferred
• Comfortable with the basic natural history of the area and the principles of inquiry-based learning
• Background / interest in biology, ecology, environmental studies or education preferred
• Effective classroom/group management skills
• Excellent oral communication skills and the ability to project
• Ability to work cooperatively with a team or individually
• A cheerful, friendly demeanor
• Enjoys working with children from a variety of backgrounds
• Comfortable interacting with live animals, including reptiles, mammals, and insects
• Reliability and flexibility
• Successful completion of pre-employment screening, including drug test, Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance, and criminal background check.
• A valid Driver’s License is preferred and the ability to travel to offsite locations
• Ability to work actively outdoors in all weather conditions without correctable physical impairments that would interfere with the ability to work on the Preserve
• Ability to remain on your feet, hike, and carry up to 40 lbs.

To apply, introduce yourself in an email with an attached resume and list of three references to: Julia Boyer, jboyer@riverbendeec.org.

This position is a perfect opportunity for individuals looking to build experience in the field of environmental education or for environmental professionals who are seeking a light, flexible schedule. EOE.

Part-Time Paid Summer & Fall Internships in Habitat Management

We are looking for applicants that are recent high school graduates, current college students, and recent graduates. Please don’t hesitate to inquire about your candidacy before applying!

Duration: Two separate 10-week opportunities

• Summer: June 1-August 7, 2026
• Fall: Sept. 1- November 6, 2026                          

Expected hours: 12 hrs/wk
Compensation: $16.00/hr

Do you love to be outside and have a passion for nature? Riverbend Environmental Education Center is accepting applications for 2025 Summer and Fall Habitat Management Interns to assist with the stewardship of our 30-acre nature preserve.  The internship is for individuals interested in pursuing careers in conservation, natural resources, parks management, environmental education, and environmental non-profit work. The Habitat Management Interns, under the supervision of the Habitat and Volunteer Manager, will help maintain our trails, woodlands, gardens, ponds, and meadow areas, and assist with our ongoing woodland restoration project.   Tasks will include planting, weeding, watering, mulching, pond maintenance, trail maintenance, stocking our woodpile, the identification and removal of iinvasive species, and debris removal.          

Storm and trash clean-up is also to be expected.  Additionally, interns may operate small power equipment such as power drills, weed whackers, or leaf blowers. This is a hands-on internship with most of the time spent working outside in nature.

Interns may also help the Volunteer Manager work with the Summer Teen, School, and Corporate, volunteer group programs, and assist with camp activities to give a well-rounded Riverbend experience.  In addition, they may help with preparation for special events and general maintenance. Management tasks will include working with individual volunteers and helping mentor and manage Teen Summer Volunteer Program members.  

Interns will also be invited on occasional field trips and tours of other gardens/nature preserves. Successful applicants can expect to gain practical habitat management experience, as well as volunteer management skills and insight into the running of an environmental non-profit.

The Habitat Interns will work approximately 10 weeks for 12 hours per week, and this is a paid internship at $16.00/hr.  Work weeks are flexible to accommodate school or vacation plans, but the interns must be available for 10 weeks of work spread from early June to mid-August for the Summer positions and Early September to mid November for the Fall positions.  Workdays will generally be Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursdays, with hours divided however is
convenient to the applicant and habitat manager. 

Internship candidates may be diverse in their educational backgrounds and future career goals and will be considered regardless of race, gender, or educational background. Candidates pursuing a degree in environmental science, botany, biology, or environmental resource management are encouraged to apply. 

Requirements: 

• Demonstrated interest in the natural world - gardening, ecology, botany, environmental studies, conservation, or landscape architecture
• Ability to work independently and in groups 
• An outgoing leader who can comfortably supervise other volunteers, especially teenagers 
• Ability to handle strenuous manual labor associated with outdoor work and ability to work outdoors in inclement weather and on a hilly terrain with occasional exposure to poison ivy, biting and stinging insects, etc.
• Child Abuse and Criminal Background checks
• Current driver’s license

Riverbend is located in the western suburbs of Philadelphia.  We are not accessible by public transportation. 

Interested applicants should fill out this form. For any questions, please contact Ayla Moulder-Tyler, Habitat and Volunteer Manager, at amouldertyler@riverbendeec.org.

Applications will be accepted until the positions are filled.