This 25 hour a week seasonal position provides support and logistical organization to our summer camp systems. This role is vital for the smooth communication and overall success of camps. This position requires the ability to be a systems thinker and a drive for organization and an efficient work ethic. Work to support the behind-the-scenes of camp to provide assistance and problem solving where we need it most. It provides an excellent lens on providing experiential education.

Responsibilities:

• Organize and track supplies and equipment in our central storage barn and oversee sign-out and return of equipment for staff and satellite locations
• Purchase and replenish supplies as necessary, all camp shopping
• Purchase and deliver weekly food supplies to all locations for camper food and staff food.
• Must be a positive role model
• Keeps records of camp expenses, including personal mileage
• Assist with check in and checkout administrative tasks
• Act as liaison with Office and registrar
• Work with staff photographer and photojournalist to publish and post week Blog
• Keep track of weekly paperwork and filing, including immunization records
• Manage the distribution of camp t-shirts weekly
• Manage laundry systems and lost and found
• Take on other roles as necessary, including Site Leader or Instructor

Hours Per Week: 25 Monday – Friday
Pay Range: $13.50-16/hr based on experience

Required Qualifications:

• Must have a valid driver’s license
• At least 21 years old
• Access to reliable transportation
• Able to Attend Staff Training Week June 20-24, 2022
• Flexible–ability to adapt to different environments and schedules
• Team player who is responsible and hard-working
• Assessment abilities
• Ability to work well with minimal supervision and to ask for help when needed

Preferred Qualifications (optional for hire):

• Enjoys working with children
• Well-developed sense of humor, play and curiosity
• Interest and experience with nature connection with youth
• Ability to manage conflict situations appropriately
• Excellent social, communication, writing and computer skills 
• Previous experience to show strong organizational abilities, systems thinking and creative problem solving

Applications will be accepted until April 1, 2022 or until a suitable candidate is found.

View or Download Full Job Description

Apply Now

Please Note: Effective January 10, 2022, all CCE Tompkins employees must be fully vaccinated and present proof of an FDA- or WHO- authorized or approved COVID-19 vaccination; or have an approved disability/medical or religious exemption; or be documented to work fully remotely, fully outdoors, or in a workplace with no other people present.  Failure to demonstrate compliance with this requirement within the first 30 days of work may result in the delay of employment, unpaid leave, or termination. For more information, visit: https://s3.amazonaws.com/assets.cce.cornell.edu/attachments/54591/2022.01.06_APPROVED_mandatory-vaccination-policy.pdf?1641517570

Cornell Cooperative Extension is an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities. Cornell Cooperative Extension Tompkins County provides equal programs and job opportunities. No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, such factors as race, color, creed, religion, national or ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, or qualified disability. Individuals who bring a diverse perspective and are supportive of diversity are strongly encouraged to apply.

Please be sure to read the Notice to Applicants found on the Jobs with CCE page.

No relocation or VISA Sponsorship is available.

The Association may make reasonable accommodations to enable applicants to participate in the hiring process and employees to perform the essential functions of their job. If you require accommodation so you may participate in the selection process you are encouraged to contact CCE Tompkins HR at [email protected]. 

For additional questions please contact:
[email protected]

Wilderness Instructors facilitate the core aim of Primitive Pursuits; bringing groups of youth into natural areas, away from facilities and without modern gear, and engaging them in a self-directed inquiry into basic, personal and group survival needs. Their key role in this task will be to assist and instruct youth on survival skills in the wild including but not limited to: primitive technology, fire making, shelter construction and procurement of food and water. Wilderness instructors also mentor youth in naturalist skills and knowledge, promote stewardship and build healthful relationships in the outdoor environment. Wilderness Instructors may work with Growing Wild (3-5 yr olds) or Day Camp (5-14 yr olds).

Hours Per Week: 40 Monday – Friday
Pay Range: $13.20-$13.50/hr base pay rate
Ideally a minimum of 7-week commitment

Responsibilities:

• Creating and implementing experiential environmental immersions for diverse groups of youth in the context of wilderness survival, living skills, naturalist skills and knowledge
• Role-modeling passion and enthusiasm around engaging with the elements of nature
• Facilitating group energy and responding swiftly to group needs in order to effectively manage and engage each participant in a positive experience
• Actively contributing to efforts of leadership team in planning, preparing, delivering and evaluating each week and each day of programming
• Representing the high caliber of the organization when speaking to parents, staff and participants
• Delivering high-adventure experiences while keeping an unfailing eye on the safety of each activity and each participant and co-worker in accordance with risk management protocols
• Working with ages between 3-15, day camp (potentially overnights too)

Required Qualifications:

• 18 + years of age
• Driver’s license and/or ability to arrange transportation to various camp locations.
• Experience as a naturalist/wilderness instructor OR camp counselor working with youth ages 6-15 in an undeveloped setting
• Willingness to work in a changing environment and tackle new problems each day
• Ability to learn and convey skill sets efficiently                                                                                                                                                                                
• Demonstrate a high level of comfort and curiosity in the natural world
• Developing skills in specialized areas pertaining to wilderness living and primitive skills OR seeking to learn specialized skills pertaining to wilderness living and primitive skills
• Demonstrate ability to inspire and relate positively with youth and teens
• Previous experience with primitive technologies and wilderness survival skills

Preferred Qualifications (optional for hire):

• Demonstrate ability to thrive in rigorous outdoor physical education activities
• Experience with working with youth and/or primitive technologies and wilderness survival skills
• Reflect on a range of personal experiences working independently and within a team
• Passionate about learning new material and practicing skills outside of work 
• Past experiences working with people of diverse educational and cultural backgrounds
• Experience in eight shields mentoring

Applications will be accepted until April 1, 2022 or until all positions are filled.

View or Download Full Job Description

Apply Now

Please Note: Effective January 10, 2022, all CCE Tompkins employees must be fully vaccinated and present proof of an FDA- or WHO- authorized or approved COVID-19 vaccination; or have an approved disability/medical or religious exemption; or be documented to work fully remotely, fully outdoors, or in a workplace with no other people present.  Failure to demonstrate compliance with this requirement within the first 30 days of work may result in the delay of employment, unpaid leave, or termination. For more information, visit: https://s3.amazonaws.com/assets.cce.cornell.edu/attachments/54591/2022.01.06_APPROVED_mandatory-vaccination-policy.pdf?1641517570

Cornell Cooperative Extension is an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities. Cornell Cooperative Extension Tompkins County provides equal programs and job opportunities. No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, such factors as race, color, creed, religion, national or ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, or qualified disability. Individuals who bring a diverse perspective and are supportive of diversity are strongly encouraged to apply.

Please be sure to read the Notice to Applicants found on the Jobs with CCE page.

No relocation or VISA Sponsorship is available.

The Association may make reasonable accommodations to enable applicants to participate in the hiring process and employees to perform the essential functions of their job. If you require accommodation so you may participate in the selection process you are encouraged to contact CCE Tompkins HR at [email protected]. 

For additional questions please contact:
[email protected]

Lead Wilderness Instructors facilitate the core aim of Primitive Pursuits; bringing groups of youth into natural areas, away from facilities and without modern gear, and engaging them in a self-directed inquiry into basic, personal and group survival needs. Their key role in this task will be to assist and instruct youth on survival skills in the wild including but not limited to: primitive technology, fire making, shelter construction and procurement of food and water. Wilderness instructors also mentor youth in naturalist skills and knowledge, promote stewardship and build healthful relationships in the outdoor environment. Wilderness Instructors may work with Growing Wild (3-5 yr olds) or Day Camp (5-14 yr olds).

Hours Per Week: 40 Monday – Friday
Pay Range:$14.50-16.50/hr base pay rate
Ideally a minimum of 7-week commitment

Responsibilities:

• Creating and implementing experiential environmental immersions for diverse groups of youth in the context of wilderness survival, living skills, naturalist skills and knowledge
• Role-modeling passion and enthusiasm around engaging with the elements of nature
• Facilitating group energy and responding swiftly to group needs in order to effectively manage and engage each participant in a positive experience
• Actively contributing to efforts of leadership team in planning, preparing, delivering and evaluating each week and each day of programming
• Representing the high caliber of the organization when speaking to parents, staff and participants
• Delivering high-adventure experiences while keeping an unfailing eye on the safety of each activity and each participant and co-worker in accordance with risk management protocols
• Working with ages between 3-15, day camp (potentially overnights too)
• Mentoring staff on a path to comfort and success among their peers and in potentially adverse environments

Required Qualifications:

• 18 years of age or older
• Must have RTE First Aid OR WFR Certification, and CPR for the Professional or higher OR be able to attain it before the start of camp
• Driver’s license and/or ability to arrange transportation to various camp locations.
• Minimum 1 year experience as a naturalist/wilderness instructor OR camp counselor working with youth ages 6-14 in an undeveloped setting
• Minimum 1 year’ experience in mentoring OR coaching staff members in problem solving, organization and day to day coordination                                                                     
• Experience in planning daily activities, projects, and games for youth ages 6-14   
• Willingness to work in a changing environment and tackle new problems each day
• Ability to learn and convey skill sets efficiently
• Demonstrate a high level of comfort and curiosity in the natural world                                                                                                               
• Passionate about learning new material and practicing skills outside of work
• Demonstrate ability to inspire and relate positively with youth and teens
• Developing skills in specialized areas pertaining to wilderness living and primitive skills OR seeking to learn specialized skills pertaining to wilderness living and primitive skills
• Previous experience with primitive technologies and wilderness survival skills          

Preferred Qualifications (optional for hire):

• Reflect on a range of personal experiences working independently and within a team
• Demonstrate ability to thrive in rigorous outdoor physical education activities
• Past experiences working with people of diverse educational and cultural backgrounds
• Experience in eight shields mentoring
• Experience with working with youth and/or primitive technologies and wilderness survival skills

Applications will be accepted until April 1, 2022 or until a suitable candidate is found.

View or Download Full Job Description
Apply Now

Please Note: Effective January 10, 2022, all CCE Tompkins employees must be fully vaccinated and present proof of an FDA- or WHO- authorized or approved COVID-19 vaccination; or have an approved disability/medical or religious exemption; or be documented to work fully remotely, fully outdoors, or in a workplace with no other people present.  Failure to demonstrate compliance with this requirement within the first 30 days of work may result in the delay of employment, unpaid leave, or termination. For more information, visit: https://s3.amazonaws.com/assets.cce.cornell.edu/attachments/54591/2022.01.06_APPROVED_mandatory-vaccination-policy.pdf?1641517570

Cornell Cooperative Extension is an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities. Cornell Cooperative Extension Tompkins County provides equal programs and job opportunities. No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, such factors as race, color, creed, religion, national or ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, or qualified disability. Individuals who bring a diverse perspective and are supportive of diversity are strongly encouraged to apply.

Please be sure to read the Notice to Applicants found on the Jobs with CCE page.

No relocation or VISA Sponsorship is available.

The Association may make reasonable accommodations to enable applicants to participate in the hiring process and employees to perform the essential functions of their job. If you require accommodation so you may participate in the selection process you are encouraged to contact CCE Tompkins HR at [email protected]. 

For additional questions please contact:
[email protected]

The Assistant Day Camp Director works collaboratively with the Camp Director to support this all-outdoors wilderness youth program mission. Responsibilities include mentorship of staff, responding to emergencies, facilitating staff meetings and planning, maintaining camp resources and supplies, and interacting with parents, campers, staff and administration as needed. Prior to the summer camp season, this position also assists the Summer Camp Director with staff training preparation and implementation, site and resource organization, and other administrative tasks. 

Hours Per Week: 40 Monday – Friday
Pay Range: $14.50-16.50/hr

Responsibilities:

• Develop and coordinate Primitive – Pursuits camp programs and activities for a safe, engaging, high-quality summer program
• Provide organizational and programmatic support as necessary
• Oversee hiring and training of all summer camp staff
• Maintain fiscal records for the summer camp program, including summer budget and fundraising efforts
• Assist Health Director in assuring that Health Department Guidelines are met
• Oversee the follow-through of any correspondence necessary related to camp functions and activities, i.e. summer staff contracts, permits, etc.
• Oversee camp recruitment and registration
• Oversee designation of camper placement within groups
• Address crisis management, discipline and troubleshooting issues related to campers and/or staff.
• Assist in determining supply and equipment needs and in ordering/purchasing
• Support and supervise instructors in organizing, implementing, decision-making and trouble-shooting
• Maintain a positive team atmosphere that includes campers, families, camp based and office based staff, and volunteers
• Schedule, supervise and evaluate program staff, including Lead Wilderness Instructors, Assistant Instructors, Interns, Teen Assists, MITs and volunteers, providing support and disciplinary measures when necessary.
• Assist in the evaluation of the camp itself, as well as the camping experience for youth participants. 

Required Qualifications:

• Current driver’s license with clean driving record
• Ability to pass NYS background checks
• Access to reliable transportation
• At least 21 years old
• At least 24 weeks of administrative OR supervisory experience
• Experience teaching children of all ages in a variety of outdoor settings
• Values diversity and inclusion and demonstrates sensitivity to issues of cultural appropriation and privilege
• Strong commitment to teaching and to sharing an appreciation for nature
• Works well with minimal supervision and asks for assistance when needed
• Ability to manage conflict situations appropriately
• Ability to work some weekends and evenings

Preferred Qualifications (optional for hire):

• Excellent social, communication, writing and computer skills
• Experience providing programming for diverse populations
• Well-developed sense of humor, play and curiosity
• Experience with nature awareness culture, such as Wilderness Awareness School, Art of Mentoring, or Kamana
• Experience with Primitive/Earth-based Skills

Applications will be accepted until April 1, 2022 or until a suitable candidate is found.

View or Download Full Job Description

Apply Now

Please Note: Effective January 10, 2022, all CCE Tompkins employees must be fully vaccinated and present proof of an FDA- or WHO- authorized or approved COVID-19 vaccination; or have an approved disability/medical or religious exemption; or be documented to work fully remotely, fully outdoors, or in a workplace with no other people present.  Failure to demonstrate compliance with this requirement within the first 30 days of work may result in the delay of employment, unpaid leave, or termination. For more information, visit: https://s3.amazonaws.com/assets.cce.cornell.edu/attachments/54591/2022.01.06_APPROVED_mandatory-vaccination-policy.pdf?1641517570

Cornell Cooperative Extension is an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities. Cornell Cooperative Extension Tompkins County provides equal programs and job opportunities. No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, such factors as race, color, creed, religion, national or ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, or qualified disability. Individuals who bring a diverse perspective and are supportive of diversity are strongly encouraged to apply.

Please be sure to read the Notice to Applicants found on the Jobs with CCE page.

No relocation or VISA Sponsorship is available.

The Association may make reasonable accommodations to enable applicants to participate in the hiring process and employees to perform the essential functions of their job. If you require accommodation so you may participate in the selection process you are encouraged to contact CCE Tompkins HR at [email protected]. 

For additional questions please contact:
[email protected]

This position will provide programmatic support for our all-outdoors wilderness youth programs. Includes mentorship of staff, responding to emergencies, and facilitating staff meetings and planning. Provides creative program support and problem-solving for staff and campers. Oversees the bigger picture educational quality and safety of summer camp.                                                                                                                                        

Hours Per Week: 40 Monday – Friday
Pay Range: $14.00-16.50/hr

Responsibilities:

• Keeps safety of campers as the first priority.  Emphasizes personal safety and emotional well being with campers, parents and other camp personnel at all times.
• Facilitates daily staff meetings
• Curriculum and planning support for staff
• By personal example, helps model Primitive Pursuits values to campers, parents and staff.  Must be a positive role model.
• Keeps daily records and paperwork organized when necessary, medical record keeping
• Daily direct communication with Camp Director
• Communication of specific campers health concerns (allergies, special diets) to staff
• First to call in an emergency in the field – handle communication with parents and leadership staff – create post incident reports and close calls
• First aid for minor injuries
• Communication with parents as needed
• Take on instructor role when necessary; provide half hour breaks to staff
• Ensure good working relationships between staff (and MITs)
• Satellite Site Leader: Maintain good relationships with landowners, facilitate logistics of running each satellite location
• Other Duties as Assigned

Required Qualifications:

• At least 21 years old
• Valid Driver’s License 
• CPR Pro and First Aid RTE certificates OR able to attain before the start of camp
• Access to reliable transportation
• Minimum 2 years as Lead Wilderness Instructor focused on facilitating nature connection and wilderness and survival skills to youth
• Flexible–ability to adapt to different environments and schedules
• Team player who is responsible and hard-working
• An understanding of diversity and inclusion values
• Ability to work well with minimal supervision and to ask for help when needed
• Ability to manage conflict situations appropriately

Preferred Qualifications (optional for hire):

• Excellent, social, communication and writing skills
• Well-developed sense of humor, play and curiosity
• Knowledge and experience with Coyote Mentoring and primitive skills

Applications will be accepted until April 1, 2022 or until a suitable candidate is found.

View or Download Full Job Description

Apply Now

Please Note: Effective January 10, 2022, all CCE Tompkins employees must be fully vaccinated and present proof of an FDA- or WHO- authorized or approved COVID-19 vaccination; or have an approved disability/medical or religious exemption; or be documented to work fully remotely, fully outdoors, or in a workplace with no other people present.  Failure to demonstrate compliance with this requirement within the first 30 days of work may result in the delay of employment, unpaid leave, or termination. For more information, visit: https://s3.amazonaws.com/assets.cce.cornell.edu/attachments/54591/2022.01.06_APPROVED_mandatory-vaccination-policy.pdf?1641517570

Cornell Cooperative Extension is an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities. Cornell Cooperative Extension Tompkins County provides equal programs and job opportunities. No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, such factors as race, color, creed, religion, national or ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, or qualified disability. Individuals who bring a diverse perspective and are supportive of diversity are strongly encouraged to apply.

Please be sure to read the Notice to Applicants found on the Jobs with CCE page.

No relocation or VISA Sponsorship is available.

The Association may make reasonable accommodations to enable applicants to participate in the hiring process and employees to perform the essential functions of their job. If you require accommodation so you may participate in the selection process you are encouraged to contact CCE Tompkins HR at [email protected]. 

For additional questions please contact:
[email protected]

Wilderness Instructors facilitate the core aim of Primitive Pursuits; bringing groups of youth into natural areas, away from facilities and without modern gear, and engaging them in a self-directed inquiry into basic, personal and group survival needs. Their key role in this task will be to assist and instruct youth on survival skills in the wild including but not limited to: primitive technology, fire making, shelter construction and procurement of food and water.  Field instructors also mentor youth in naturalist skills and knowledge, promote stewardship and build healthful relationships in the outdoor environment. Wilderness Instructors may work with Growing Wild (3-5 yr olds) or Day Camp (5-14 yr olds).

Hours Per Week: 40 Monday – Friday
Monthly Stipend: Approximately $1,600
Minimum of 3 weeks commitment plus staff training week

Required Qualifications:

• Access to reliable transportation
• Able to Attend Staff Training Week June 20-24, 2022
• Willingness to work in a changing environment and tackle new problems each day
• Ability to learn and convey skillsets efficiently
• Demonstrate a high level of comfort and curiosity in the natural world                                                                                                                                                 

Preferred Qualifications (optional for hire):

• Demonstrate ability to inspire and relate positively with youth and teens
• Reflect on a range of personal experiences working independently and within a team
• Passionate about learning new material and practicing skills outside of work
• Past experiences working with people of diverse educational and cultural backgrounds
• Previous experience with primitive technologies and wilderness survival skills
• Experience with working with youth and/or primitive technologies and wilderness survival skills 
• Demonstrate ability to thrive in rigorous outdoor physical education activities
• Experience in eight shields mentoring

Applications will be accepted until May 1, 2022 or until all positions are filled.

View or Download Full Job Description
Apply Now

Please Note: Effective January 10, 2022, all CCE Tompkins employees must be fully vaccinated and present proof of an FDA- or WHO- authorized or approved COVID-19 vaccination; or have an approved disability/medical or religious exemption; or be documented to work fully remotely, fully outdoors, or in a workplace with no other people present.  Failure to demonstrate compliance with this requirement within the first 30 days of work may result in the delay of employment, unpaid leave, or termination. For more information, visit: https://s3.amazonaws.com/assets.cce.cornell.edu/attachments/54591/2022.01.06_APPROVED_mandatory-vaccination-policy.pdf?1641517570

Cornell Cooperative Extension is an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities. Cornell Cooperative Extension Tompkins County provides equal programs and job opportunities. No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, such factors as race, color, creed, religion, national or ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, or qualified disability. Individuals who bring a diverse perspective and are supportive of diversity are strongly encouraged to apply.

Please be sure to read the Notice to Applicants found on the Jobs with CCE page.

No relocation or VISA Sponsorship is available.

The Association may make reasonable accommodations to enable applicants to participate in the hiring process and employees to perform the essential functions of their job. If you require accommodation so you may participate in the selection process you are encouraged to contact CCE Tompkins HR at [email protected]. 

For additional questions please contact:
[email protected]

Creative Thinkers. Radical Problem Solvers. Join our team at Primitive Pursuits to contribute to our national effort to develop social change and nature awareness. Our administrative internships offer an opportunity to be part of a cutting-edge social enterprise while testing your knowledge and abilities in the marketplace of the real world. You’ll receive support and guidance from a team of entrepreneurial-minded program leaders dedicated to building a financially successful model of lasting social change. 

Hours Per Week: 20
Monthly Stipend: $800-1,000
Minimum of 3 weeks commitment plus staff training week 

Training Opportunities & Responsibilities may include:

• Maintaining and managing databases to track progress and inform executive functions of the program
• Making phone calls to parents and answering the phone
• General administrative and organizational support
• Specialized projects designed by you, to benefit your professional development goals
• Other tasks related to administrative responsibilities

Interested applicants must demonstrate:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Drive and comfort with computer skills development
• Being a part of a positive, professional and inclusive environment
• Collaborating effectively with others
• Access to reliable transportation
• Able to Attend Staff Training Week June 20-24, 2022

Applications will be accepted until May 1, 2022 or until all positions are filled.

View or Download Full Job Description

Apply Now

Please Note: Effective January 10, 2022, all CCE Tompkins employees must be fully vaccinated and present proof of an FDA- or WHO- authorized or approved COVID-19 vaccination; or have an approved disability/medical or religious exemption; or be documented to work fully remotely, fully outdoors, or in a workplace with no other people present.  Failure to demonstrate compliance with this requirement within the first 30 days of work may result in the delay of employment, unpaid leave, or termination. For more information, visit: https://s3.amazonaws.com/assets.cce.cornell.edu/attachments/54591/2022.01.06_APPROVED_mandatory-vaccination-policy.pdf?1641517570

Cornell Cooperative Extension is an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities. Cornell Cooperative Extension Tompkins County provides equal programs and job opportunities. No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, such factors as race, color, creed, religion, national or ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, or qualified disability. Individuals who bring a diverse perspective and are supportive of diversity are strongly encouraged to apply.

Please be sure to read the Notice to Applicants found on the Jobs with CCE page.

No relocation or VISA Sponsorship is available.

The Association may make reasonable accommodations to enable applicants to participate in the hiring process and employees to perform the essential functions of their job. If you require accommodation so you may participate in the selection process you are encouraged to contact CCE Tompkins HR at [email protected]. 

For additional questions please contact:
[email protected]

The photojournalist intern is an integral member to our marketing team as you will be creating content with the hopes of sharing our mission and inspiring communities to experience nature through our programs. As Primitive Pursuits’ photojournalist, you’ll be asked to capture the experiences of campers each week and share these moments with campers’ families, prospective attendees, and the world through weekly blog posts published on our website and social media. You’ll be asked to interview campers, staff, take pictures and videos as well as write and prepare blog entries that tell the story of the camp offerings from that week. 

We are seeking someone who has a passion and interest in the marketing field and is looking for a way to expand upon their skills! As a photojournalist intern the responsibilities will be:

• Take photographs and video each week at a variety of camps and locations
• Compile and organize photos in our database
• Write weekly blog entries that give life to campers’ experiences from each camp offered
• Interview campers and staff
• Using our website software, create a weekly blog post using original writings and photos from the week
• Other tasks related to marketing and administrative responsibilities

Hours Per Week: 20
Monthly Stipend: Approximately: $1,000-1,200
Minimum of 3 weeks commitment plus staff training week

Interested applicants must demonstrate:

• Photography experience
• Seeking to work on and with a team
• Experience in deadlines and time management
• Project management skills, including ongoing prioritization of tasks
• Computer and photo software literacy
• Access to reliable transportation
• Able to Attend Staff Training Week June 20-24, 2022

Preferred Qualifications (optional for hire):

• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills
• Ability to empathize with young children, parents, and instructors
• Outgoing, creative and caring personalize with a strong desire to grow personally and professionally
• Passion for the natural world and outdoor education
• Excitement about spending every day outdoors in the woods, no matter the weather – Curiosity is required; Experience is not

Applications will be accepted until May 1, 2022 or until all positions are filled.

View or Download Full Job Description
Apply Now

Please Note: Effective January 10, 2022, all CCE Tompkins employees must be fully vaccinated and present proof of an FDA- or WHO- authorized or approved COVID-19 vaccination; or have an approved disability/medical or religious exemption; or be documented to work fully remotely, fully outdoors, or in a workplace with no other people present.  Failure to demonstrate compliance with this requirement within the first 30 days of work may result in the delay of employment, unpaid leave, or termination. For more information, visit: https://s3.amazonaws.com/assets.cce.cornell.edu/attachments/54591/2022.01.06_APPROVED_mandatory-vaccination-policy.pdf?1641517570

Cornell Cooperative Extension is an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities. Cornell Cooperative Extension Tompkins County provides equal programs and job opportunities. No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, such factors as race, color, creed, religion, national or ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, or qualified disability. Individuals who bring a diverse perspective and are supportive of diversity are strongly encouraged to apply.

Please be sure to read the Notice to Applicants found on the Jobs with CCE page.

No relocation or VISA Sponsorship is available.

The Association may make reasonable accommodations to enable applicants to participate in the hiring process and employees to perform the essential functions of their job. If you require accommodation so you may participate in the selection process you are encouraged to contact CCE Tompkins HR at [email protected]. 

For additional questions please contact:
[email protected]

For additional questions please contact [email protected]

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Applicants who are interesed in applying for Assistant Summer Camp Director, Summer Site Leader, Logistics Coordinator, Lead Wilderness Instructor or Wilderness Instructor are encouraged to apply by April 1. Applicants who are interested in an Internship position should submit their application by May 1.

Interviews will continue until all positions are filled which is usually in May. The earlier you apply, the better.

For new staff, we provide a three-day training specifically tailored to introducing staff to our methods, philosophy and culture of nature connection. During this training, staff will be exposed to a range of games, activities and skills, and become familiar with the land we use for our camps. This training is required for new staff and runs Monday – Wednesday of training week.
For returning staff, we provide a special one day training for our lead instructors and a one day training for all archery instructors. These experiences help foster our specialized focus and develop staff as leaders in the field.

For all staff, we provide a one to two-day all-staff orientation held before the first week of camp. This is an opportunity for all staff to gather, get to know each other and learn together. The goal of these two days is to discuss, inspire, appreciate, communicate and inquire about our upcoming adventure together. We spend our time deep in skills, risk management, communication systems, team building and fun! We aim to model the feel and culture of what camp might be like while also creating an atmosphere of community.

During the summer, we value feedback as a gift at all times and support staff to learn effective and meaningful forms of feedback. We see this process as a way to learn and grow as leaders and nature mentors. All staff participate in weekly feedback discussions with their team for that week. New staff and more novice staff work with our seasoned lead instructors to build on successes and find areas of growth and improvement. We also offer opportunities outside of camp hours for further skill training and community building throughout the summer.

“ I made so many friendships with other instructors during this summer, and I loved coming to work. This definitely felt like a community. I also felt like I gained a lot of good experience and ideas after working with skilled lead counselors.”  – Summer Wilderness Instructor

“ I feel extremely lucky that I was able to spend so many of my weeks in the woods this summer. I love being in nature, and probably the most rewarding aspect of my work this summer was being able to connect with so many kids. I loved that I could create a positive, happy experience for kids by playing games, telling stories, and just being in the woods having fun.” – Summer Wilderness Instructor

“Working with Primitive Pursuits has taught me invaluable life skills. It combines learning, mentoring, exploration, daring, creativity, intuition, and practicality for an enriching experience, with the natural world as the classroom!” – Summer Wilderness Instructor

“The sentiment of “meeting everyone where they are at” has left me with a lifelong lesson to practice. My heart beams with gratitude for the empowerment, empathy, and support I felt from my time at Primitive Pursuits. This experience allowed me to grow as a leader, teammate, and individual.” – Summer Camp Coordinator

• All staff are required to attend staff training the week of June 20th-24th.  
• Summer camp runs from June 27-September 2. All wilderness instructors are required to work ideally a minimum of 7 weeks and a maximum of 9 weeks during the camp season in addition to staff training. Interns are required to work a minimum of 3 weeks and a maximum of 9 weeks in addition to staff training week.
• Admin and Photojournalist Interns will a schedule based on the camp’s needs and expectations

Please Note: Effective January 10, 2022, all CCE Tompkins employees must be fully vaccinated and present proof of an FDA- or WHO- authorized or approved COVID-19 vaccination; or have an approved disability/medical or religious exemption; or be documented to work fully remotely, fully outdoors, or in a workplace with no other people present.  Failure to demonstrate compliance with this requirement within the first 30 days of work may result in the delay of employment, unpaid leave, or termination. For more information, visit: Approved Mandatory Vaccination.