(Seasonal) Discovery Camp Assistants

At the North Carolina Arboretum, we believe in the transformative power of nature. Our summer Discovery Camps are dedicated to providing children with an unforgettable experience filled with adventure, learning, and connection with the natural world. We are currently seeking Discovery Camp Assistants to help navigate students through summer camps using nature based education. Applicants should be enthusiastic and responsible individuals dedicated to help create lasting memories for our campers. These roles will be open for application until filled.

The Discovery Camp Assistant will assist with camp programming in the Youth Education Department. This position will report to the On-Site Youth Education Coordinator/ Discovery Camp Director. Daily tasks include leading or assisting outdoor focused programming for rising Kindergarten to 8th grade campers. Discover Camp Assistants will be responsible for safely leading groups of up to 12campers at at time through activities that include but are not limited to interpretive nature hikes, macroinvertebrate stream investigation, overnight camping, team building and group games, arts and crafts, Geocaching and so much more. Discovery Camp Assistants should be excited about sharing their skills and passion for the natural world to help cultivate each camper's connection to nature and the world around them. Typical tasks of Discovery Camp Assistants include:

• Assisting with daily outdoor focused camp programming for grades Pre K-8th.
• Prepare and maintain environmental education program materials.
• Participate on individual work teams on various subjects.
• Assist with Eco Lab classroom operations and maintenance as well as other job-related tasks as required.

Pay will be $18.00 per hour and the hours will be from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. on Mondays through Fridays. Applications will be accepted until all roles are filled.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Youth Leadership experience and good customer service skills are required; Experience working with children in an outdoor setting is strongly desired; Ability to work unsupervised and to display flexibility in an ever-changing environment; Applicants are strongly encouraged to review the Arboretum's website prior to interview and be prepared for a skills assessment.

Education and Experience

Applicants must be at least 18 years old and possess a high school diploma or equivalent. One year of college or comparable life experience is preferred. Any combination of education or experience equaling a degree in teaching/education, childhood development, outdoor/environmental education, biology, ecology, or a related field is strongly valued.

Physical Requirements:
Work requires long hours of leading programs in the out of doors in various weather conditions, often times carrying a pack with program equipment.

Special Requirements:
Applicants being considered must agree to a background check.

Primary Purpose of the Organizational Unit
Youth Education at The North Carolina Arboretum delivers educational experiences that create a purposeful, engaging and experiential approach to science and outdoor education. It is the mission of Youth Education to provide every student with adventure, exploration and environmental awareness that will foster their interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) careers and fields. The Arboretum utilizes this approach to cultivate students who value natural resources, learn how to recognize their impact on the world around them and are equipped with the skill and knowledge of sustainability, conservation and environmental sciences in the 21st Century. The On-Site Youth Education Coordinator has lead responsibility for program planning, programming, scheduling and registration for all on-site Arboretum Youth Programs including field trips, family programs and summer day camps.

Classification: (Seasonal) Discovery Camp Assistants
Position Number: UNCSO-ATNCA6
Appointment Type: Temporary
Full-Time/Part-Time: Part-Time
Location: 100 Fredrick Law Olmsted Way, Asheville, NC 28806 USA
Posting Open Date: 01/20/2026
Posting Close Date:
Posting Number:

EEO
The UNC System Office (includes PBS NC, NCSEAA, and NC Arboretum) is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or status as a protected veteran.
The UNC System Office (includes PBS NC, NCSEAA, and NC Arboretum) is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

To claim veteran's preference, all eligible persons shall submit a DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, along with a State Application for Employment (Form PD-107 or equivalent) to the appointing authority.

The UNC System Office (includes PBS NC, NCSEAA, and NC Arboretum) participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.
EEO Contact Information
Applicants needing assistance with the application process are asked to contact: ophiring@northcarolina.edu