Summer Camp Instructor Intern 2026

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Ocean Discovery Institute

Posted 4 months ago

Internship

San Diego, California

In Person

Smart Summary

Responsibilities

Lead hands-on science and health programming for K-8th grade students at the Living Lab. Manage program logistics, mentor students, and act as a team lead to coordinate supplies and student rosters.

Qualifications

You have at least one year of teaching experience, preferably in informal science education, and demonstrate a deep understanding of the community served by Ocean Discovery. You are expected to be available for consistent M-F shifts and possess a passion for STEM and youth development.

Must Have Skills for ATS

First Aid/CPR Certified

Spanish

Vietnamese

Job Description

Position Summary

As a member of the Summer Instructional Team, you’ll lead hands-on science experiences for K-8 th grade students in City Heights, empowering them to Believe, Achieve, and Lead as science leaders. Instructional staff provide high-quality programming during our Out-of-School summer camp programming at Ocean Discovery’s Living Lab. Together with your peers, Summer Instructors will participate in pre-summer summer camp training led by Ocean Discovery’s leadership team designed to prepare you for summer programs and enhance your teaching practice.

Duties and Responsibilities

·       Implement engaging and consistent hands-on science programming to K – 8th grade students during our Out-of-School summer camp programs.  

·       Teach diverse summer curricula, including hands-on science lessons, science of health programming (i.e. cooking and exercise) , and community building at the Living Lab.

·       Support with program logistics, including supply management, and family engagement during summer programs.

·       Informally mentor students who participate in programs.

·       Participate in program training and participate in piloting new math and science curriculum.

·       Act as team lead: responsible for completed student rosters, finalize accumulation of supplies, confirm set up of programs, delegate tasks as needed and assist in problem-solving on-the-spot program needs.

Position Qualifications & Requirements

·       At least 1 year of teaching experience, preferably in informal science education.

·       Consistent M-F availability (8-hour daily shifts; 8:00am-5:00pm)

·       Available to work all program sessions:

  • Staff Training: June 1-5th;
  • Camp: June 8-12th ; June 15-19th; June 22-26th; July 6-10th; July 13-17th; July 20-July 24th; July 27- 31st.

·       Passion for, commitment to, and understanding of Ocean Discovery's mission.

·       Demonstrate a deep understanding of the community we serve, dedicated to the concept of promoting equal opportunity for young people from underserved urban communities of color.

·       Interest in STEM, conservation, youth development, education, recreation, social justice, or non-profit fields.

·       Demonstrate understanding of local marine environments.

·       Enthusiasm for continued professional development.

·       Ability and eagerness to integrate instructional feedback and coaching.

·       Well organized, self-starter with a positive attitude.

·       Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced, energetic, dynamic environment.

·       Excellent communication and interpersonal skills (both written and verbal).

·       Ability to walk and stand for long periods, lift and carry heavy or awkward items approximately 25-40lbs.

·       Pass a Livescan (fingerprinting / background) check and complete a Tuberculosis assessment.

·       Have proof of completed or initiated COVID-19 vaccination.

·       Have a valid Driver’s License, reliable transportation, vehicle insurance, and clean driving record.

·       1st Aid/CPR Certified.

Desired Skills/Experience:

·       Conversational in Spanish or Vietnamese.

·       Has experience with Ocean Discovery Institute, either as a program participant, or volunteer.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

·       Work is performed in the classroom, outdoor, and natural settings with occasional time in an office setting. Available schedule is Monday-Friday 8:00am - 5:00pm.

·       Ability to stand and move around indoor and outdoor education spaces, including uneven surfaces for 4-8 hours per day; ability to lift, carry, and position objects weighing up to 35 pounds; move around, occasionally move around the office to access files, educational supplies, office equipment; answer phone calls to coordinate programs and answer questions. ·       Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Organization Culture

Our values guide our students, families, team and supporters and our core competencies reflect our culture and values; it is essential all team members exhibit the following:

Organizational Values                                              Core Competencies

We love learning                                                        Community Driven, Approachable, 

We choose leadership                                              Trusted & Demonstrates Integrity, Committed to Work Systems

We believe in community                                        Action-Oriented, and Organizationally Agile

We stand for justice                                                  Leadership Competencies

We imagine possibilities                                          Motivates Others, Manages Strategy and Process,

Develops Direct Reports             

Time Commitment

·       30-40 hours a week (5 days/week).

·       Start Date: June 1st, 2026

·       Temporary/Seasonal Position, from June 1st  - July 31st, 2026

Compensation

·       Academic Credit with CMC


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Ocean Discovery Institute

Ocean Discovery Institute uses ocean science to empower young people from underserved urban communities of color to transform their lives, their community, and our world as science and conservation leaders. Working in the San Diego community of City Heights, we provide continuous science opportunities paired with mentoring and the tools to overcome challenges so that young people unlock their potential. Our programs are provided at no cost to our students. Our students believe that a scientist is someone they can be. They achieve because of it. They lead by entering high-paying STEM fields and making a difference.
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