Title: Preschool Camp Counselor

Type: Seasonal/Full-Time Hours

Department: Sanibel Sea School

Reports to: Camp Coordinator

Location: Sanibel Island

Position Dates: May 26th – June 26th 2026

 $14/hour  

BASIC SUMMARY

Sanibel Sea School is part of the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) family. The mission of SCCF is to protect and care for Southwest Florida's coastal ecosystems. Reinforcing this organizational purpose is the mission of Sanibel Sea School: to improve the ocean’s future, one person at a time. We are one organization with a united mission to improve, protect, and care for nature.

 

Our Flagship Campus is located on the east end of Sanibel Island, on the southwest coast of Florida. Experiential educational offerings include day classes, non-residential summer and winter camps, paddling and outdoor education activities, after-school, homeschooling, private excursions, and outreach programs for the local community. Sanibel Sea School serves all ages, but its primary audience is 6 to 13.

 

We are a small staff, extremely passionate about the ocean and our work; we strive to offer exceptional customer service and education to each client. We are dedicated to our students’ growth and strongly believe in the value of experiential education in nature. Learning outdoors builds self-confidence, encourages trust, and ignites curiosity and wonder. Our goal is simple: through exploration and discovery, we want to help children fall in love with the ocean and become lifelong advocates for the environment. We are also committed to a diverse workplace and strongly encourage applications from underrepresented groups in marine and environmental sciences.

As a Preschool Camp Counselor, you will play a crucial role in creating a positive and engaging summer camp experience for children ages 4 to 6. Counselors lead small groups through age-appropriate activities, support campers’ social and emotional growth, and help children feel comfortable, confident, and excited to explore, play, and learn. This role requires patience, energy, creativity, and a genuine love of working with young children. Sanibel Sea School partners with Children’s Education Center of the Islands (CECI) to host Sea Squirts Summer Camps specifically designed for early childhood. This position will train for two weeks at our main campus in May and then execute three consecutive weeks of camp at the CECI campus in June.

 

You can read more about our summer camps here and see photos from past years here.

 

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Note: This job description is intended to outline the primary duties and responsibilities of the Marine Science Educator. It is not in order of priority or an exhaustive list. Other duties may be assigned as required.

  • Oversee the logistical aspects of their groups: following the day’s schedule, gathering supplies, setting up activities, and carrying all necessary paperwork.
  • Share your knowledge of marine science and passion for the natural environment to captivate and engage campers.
  • Foster an appreciation for marine ecosystems and instill good ocean stewardship practices, setting an example for the camp.
  • Act as a representative of Sanibel Sea School, promoting our programs within the local, regional, and national communities.
  • Foster a positive, inclusive atmosphere that encourages camper participation and teamwork.
  • Demonstrate a positive and professional attitude as a role model for campers.
  • Uphold camp values and promote positive character development among campers.

 

Supervision & Safety

  • Supervise young children (ages 4 - 6) in various challenging outdoor and marine environments. Lead and assist with age-appropriate activities such as games, crafts, nature exploration, beach/water play, and group routines
  • Ensure the safety and well-being of camp participants at all times.
  • Help campers with transitions, routines, and basic self-care (bathroom breaks, sunscreen, hydration, snack/lunch time).
  • Assist with the upkeep of facilities and equipment, and conduct regular safety checks to ensure a safe and efficient learning environment.
  • Ensure the Camp Coordinator is aware of any changes to your group’s schedule and intended locations so they have up-to-date information.
  • Follow safety protocols and emergency procedures to ensure the well-being of clients and staff. Review safety training independently to stay confident in your life-saving skills.
  • Set clear expectations for camper behavior and consistently enforce camp rules.
  • Address and manage behavioral issues with patience and effective communication.

Activities & Facilitation

  • Maintain a high standard of quality and excellence while executing the activities provided by Sanibel Sea School.
  • Stay informed about the summer’s topics (themes and areas of focus), local biota, and significant developments in marine science focusing on Southwest Florida.
  • Collaborate with the Camp Coordinator to design and develop activities that align with our mission, values, and age groups.
  • Ensure all activities are educational, fun, and inclusive to cater to diverse interests and abilities.
  • Reflect on each activity to evaluate its success and identify areas for improvement. Use campers’ and staff feedback to continuously enhance the experience.
  • Engage campers in recreational and educational activities to promote physical, social, and intellectual development, especially during free times and transitions.

Team Collaboration

  • Communicate incidents, altercations, or other work-related issues effectively with the Camp Coordinator or Director of Youth Education. 
  • Work collaboratively with fellow camp counselors and staff to foster a cohesive, supportive camp community.
  • Attend regular staff meetings and training sessions to enhance skills and knowledge.
  • Communicate effectively with camp leadership and parents regarding camper progress and any concerns.

QUALIFICATIONS

Note: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements below represent the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions of the job.

 

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE

  • An appreciation and enthusiasm for SCCFs, Sanibel Sea School’s, and CECI’s missions.
  • Be an example of sustainability and mindful choices to staff and clients.
  • A background in Early Childhood Education, Elementary/ Secondary Education, Child Development, Environmental Education, Biology, Marine Biology, or a similar field.
  • Experience working with young children (under 5 years old) and/or a strong desire to, especially in a camp setting
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities to work effectively with campers, staff, and parents/guardians.
  • Demonstrated leadership skills.
  • Ability to act as part of a safety team and respond effectively during emergencies.
  • High energy, creativity, and a passion for connecting children to nature.
  • Must be at least 18 years old.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

  • Certifications (or be capable of obtaining certifications) in CPR, First Aid, and Lifeguarding.
  • A valid US driver’s license.
  • Preferred (but not required):
    • Early Childhood Education (ECE) Credentials
    • Emergent Literacy for VPK Instructors
    • Montessori Certifications
    • Child Abuse Prevention, Recognition, and Reporting Training

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • The role requires physical activity, including walking, standing, swimming, surfing, and participating in camp activities.
  • Reaching above shoulder height, below the waist, or lifting to forty (40) pounds, as required throughout the workday; proper lifting techniques are required.
  • Strong and competent swimmer in fresh and salt water.
  • Comfortable in outdoor settings and physically capable of leading groups of children in a variety of natural environments

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

  • SCCF is a drug-free workplace, and the successful applicant will pass a drug screening test within two weeks of starting the position.
  • Ability to pass a level 2 federal background check and submit fingerprints to a national database.
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating, and procedural manuals.
  • Strong problem-solving skills, especially under pressure.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • Preschool Camp Counselors must be able to work outdoors in the subtropical conditions of SW Florida.
  • The role is entirely field-based.

TRAVEL, WORK HOURS, SUPERVISION

  • Some travel between field locations, satellite campuses, the main campus, and SCCF offices is required.
  • This is a seasonal position during the summer months, with a commitment to the entire month (May 26 – June 26).
  • This position primarily works a Monday to Friday schedule (8 AM – 3 PM).

 

To apply for this position, we require a cover letter, resume, and three references we may contact.