Employment

Keeping water clean, safe, and healthy is the heart of our mission.

We work to protect and restore our water and natural environment in central New Jersey through conservation, advocacy, science, and education. We hope you’ll join us!

Current Job Openings

Watershed Nature Camp Counselor

Overview:

The Watershed Institute is seeking enthusiastic seasonal staff for our popular summer camp program. Watershed Nature Camp is an 8-week outdoor day camp that provides immersion in nature on 950 acres in Hopewell Township (Mercer Co), NJ. We value diversity, inclusion, and respect for all living things and the land. We are committed to building a culturally diverse organization and strongly encourage applications from people of color and neighboring communities. We strive to inspire future generations of environmental scientists and naturalists. Watershed Nature Camp Staff will uphold and model these values while providing a healthy, safe, and fun experience for campers.

For more information about Watershed Nature Camp, visit thewatershed.org/camp.

Dates: Camp sessions run Monday through Friday from June 22-August 14, 2026 (Staff must be available for at least 7 of those weeks.)

Training: 65 hours of mandatory training will be held between June 7-18

Hours: A typical work day will run from 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m., but some Thursday overnight campouts and offsite, overnight trips may be necessary.

Rates: $14.00-$15.00/hr., based on experience

Benefits:

Bi-weekly pay

CPR, First Aid, and AED training will be provided (includes 2-year certification)

Meals provided during extended programming (overnights) and some daytime activities (cookouts)

*Transportation to and from Trenton (see * responsibility below)

Qualifications:

High school graduation or equivalent and age 17 or older

Exceptions will be made for prior Watershed Nature Camp Counselors-in-Training who have completed 11th grade and are age 17 or older

First Aid/CPR certification (will be provided, if needed)

Experience working with diverse children or youth in an outdoor setting

Enthusiasm for nature, the environment, and sustainability

Demonstrated ability to work as a team in stressful situations

Demonstrated ability in public speaking or leading group activities or games

Adaptability and flexibility to ever-changing situations

Ability to work outside all day during hot and humid summer weather

Ability to walk for at least 2-6 miles a day on uneven terrain

Responsibilities:

Maintain and support the physical and emotional safety of all campers, including relevant safety documentation

Work as a team with 1-2 other staff and 1-2 volunteers to supervise 10-21 campers (ages 5-14)

Uphold camp policies, procedures, and values

Assist in planning and revising weekly schedules in order to reach thematic learning goals

Lead and/or participate in presentation aspects of the program including environmental education activities, nature crafts, outdoor survival skills, and games

Maintain supplies for all daily activities, including the safe-handling of food for cookouts and campouts

For those working with campers in 3rd-9th grade, facilitate offsite field trips that may include touring other facilities, hiking, swimming, or boating

For those working with campers in 7th-9th grade, work as a team to facilitate offsite overnight trips that include boating, backpacking, swimming, and camping

*For those who would like transportation to and from Trenton, be responsible for the duties of bus monitor for campers also riding the bus

Application:

Submit your resume and a cover letter to The Watershed Institute with subject line Watershed Nature Camp Counselor at [email protected] OR complete this application.

The Watershed Institute is an equal opportunity employer.

Watershed Nature Camp Group Leader

Overview:

The Watershed Institute is seeking enthusiastic seasonal staff for our popular summer camp program. Watershed Nature Camp is an 8-week outdoor day camp that provides immersion in nature on 950 acres in Hopewell Township (Mercer Co), NJ. We value diversity, inclusion, and respect for all living things and the land. We are committed to building a culturally diverse organization and strongly encourage applications from people of color and neighboring communities. We strive to inspire future generations of environmental scientists and naturalists. Watershed Nature Camp staff will uphold and model these values while providing a healthy, safe, and fun experience for campers.

For more information about Watershed Nature Camp, visit www.thewatershed.org/camp.

Dates: Camp sessions run Monday through Friday from June 22-August 14, 2026 (Staff must be available for at least 7 of those weeks.)

Training: 65 hours of mandatory training will be held between June 7-18

Hours: A typical work day will run from 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m., but some Thursday overnight campouts and offsite, overnight trips may be necessary.

Rates: $16.50/hr.

Benefits:

Bi-weekly pay

CPR, First Aid, and AED training will be provided (includes 2-year certification)

Reimbursement for Lifeguarding certification, if applicable

Meals provided during extended programming (overnights) and some daytime activities (cookouts)

Qualifications:

High school graduation or equivalent and age 19 or older

First Aid/CPR certification (will be provided, if needed)

Lifeguarding or Wilderness First Aid preferred

Experience working with diverse children or youth in an outdoor setting

Experience facilitating programs or experiences about nature, the environment, and/or sustainability

Demonstrated ability to work as a team and make decisions in high-stress situations

Ability to remain calm and professional during an emergency situation

Adaptability and flexibility in ever-changing situations

Ability to work outside all day during hot and humid summer weather

Ability to walk for at least 2-6 miles a day on uneven terrain

Responsibilities:

Maintain and support the physical and emotional safety of all campers, including relevant safety documentation

Lead a team of 1-2 other staff and 1-2 volunteers to supervise 10-21 campers (ages 5-14)

Uphold camp policies, procedures, and values

Lead the planning and revising of weekly schedules in order to reach thematic learning goals

Lead and participate in presentation aspects of the program including environmental education activities, nature crafts, outdoor survival skills, and games

Maintain supplies for all daily activities, including the safe-handling of food for cookouts and campouts

Provide excellent customer service to families during check-in and check-out and other in-person interactions

Provide constructive feedback to volunteer Counselors-in-Training on a weekly basis

For those working with campers in 3rd-9th grade, lead offsite field trips that may include touring other facilities, hiking, swimming, or boating

For those working with campers in 7th-9th grade, lead offsite overnight trips that include boating, backpacking, swimming, and camping

Application:

Submit your resume and a cover letter to The Watershed Institute with subject line Watershed Nature Camp Group Leader at [email protected] OR complete this application.

The Watershed Institute is an equal opportunity employer.

Watershed Nature Camp Assistant Camp Director

Overview:

The Watershed Institute is seeking enthusiastic seasonal staff for our popular summer camp program. Watershed Nature Camp is an 8-week outdoor day camp that provides immersion in nature on 950 acres in Hopewell Township (Mercer Co), NJ. We value diversity, inclusion, and respect for all living things and the land. We are committed to building a culturally diverse organization and strongly encourage applications from people of color and neighboring communities. We strive to inspire future generations of environmental scientists and naturalists. Watershed Nature Camp staff will uphold and model these values while providing a healthy, safe, and fun experience for campers.

For more information about Watershed Nature Camp, visit www.thewatershed.org/camp.

Dates: Camp sessions run Monday through Friday from June 22-August 14, 2026

Training: 65 hours of mandatory training will be held between June 7-18

Hours: A typical work day will run from 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., but some Thursday overnight campouts and offsite day trips will be necessary.

Rates: $19/hr.

Benefits:

Bi-weekly pay

First Aid (if needed) and CPR and AED for Professional Rescuers training will be provided (includes 2-year certification)

Reimbursement for Lifeguarding certification, if applicable

Meals provided during extended programming (overnights) and some daytime activities (cookouts)

Qualifications:

High school graduation or equivalent and age 21 or older

Previous experience working with Watershed Nature Camp

At least one season of supervisory experience or a similar leadership role

First Aid/CPR certification (we will provide, if needed)

Experience with health safety like Wilderness First Aid, Lifeguarding, EMT, or Nurse Aide

Experience working with diverse children or youth in an outdoor setting

Experience facilitating programs or experiences about nature, the environment, or sustainability

Demonstrated ability to work as a team and make decisions in high-stress situations

Ability to remain calm and professional during an emergency situation

Motivation for positive, professional customer service and organized, efficient use of databases and online systems

Adaptability and flexibility in ever-changing situations

Ability to work outside all day during hot and humid summer weather

Ability to walk for at least 2-6 miles a day on uneven terrain

Responsibilities (to be divided between Assistant Camp Directors):

Medical Management:

Act as the Health Director, as required by the NJ Youth Health Safety Act

Maintain accurate health and safety records

Camp Facilitation:

Respond to emergency situations

Remain on site during evening and overnight programs

Assist with the inventory, ordering, pickup, distribution of supplies and groceries

Assist in overseeing day-to-day operations of camp

Serve as a member of the Camp Administration team

Accept other duties necessary for the smooth operation of summer camp

Team Supervision:

Assist in facilitating staff and CIT training

Assist in conducting staff meetings

Encourage staff development through mentoring, performance evaluation, skill development, and on-going training

Support for Campers and Camp Families:

Communicate with parents about camper health and behavior related issues

Support successful attendance of campers and camper families attending on scholarship

Serve as a point-of-contact for organizations sending campers on scholarship

Pack and distribute bag lunches for campers on scholarship

Provide excellent customer service to parents with face-to-face conversations, timely phone calls, and email responses daily

Empower families to complete necessary health records through regular communications

Application:

Submit your resume and a cover letter to The Watershed Institute with subject line Watershed Nature Camp Assistant Camp Director at [email protected].  

The Watershed Institute is an equal opportunity employer. 

Watershed Summer Photography Intern

Overview:

The Watershed Institute is seeking a creative and motivated Photography Intern to join our staff for our popular summer programs. This internship offers hands-on experience in capturing and producing compelling visual content for our summer camp, High School Academy, and other educational programs. We value diversity, inclusion, and respect for all living things and the land. We are committed to building a culturally diverse organization and strongly encourage applications from people of color and neighboring communities. We strive to inspire future generations of environmental scientists and naturalists. Join us in making a difference this summer through the power of storytelling!

Dates: June 22-August 14, 2026

Training: 25 hours of mandatory training will be held between June 7-18

Hours: 30 hours/wk.

Flexible, between the hours of 9 a.m.-4 p.m., with occasional Thursday evenings or Saturdays potentially required

Rates: $15/hr.

What You’ll Gain:

Hands-on experience in photography, videography, and content creation

An opportunity to build a robust portfolio with diverse, dynamic projects

Mentorship and feedback from seasoned professionals in communications and marketing

Insight into educational program operations and storytelling

Responsibilities:

Photography & Videography:

Capture high-quality photos and videos of summer camp activities, High School Academy sessions, and other educational programs

Take candid and posed shots of students, staff, and events that align with our organization’s visual style

Content Management:

Organize, edit, and manage storage of all photo and video assets

Ensure all content is easily accessible and well-labeled for future use

Social Media Content Creation:

Design and create engaging posts, stories, and reels for social media platforms

Collaborate with the Communications Department to align content with ongoing campaigns and messaging goals

Support Camp Procedures and Policies While Interacting with Campers:

Work with summer camp Staff

Spend long periods of time outdoors in hot, humid summer weather while hiking 1-3 miles

Campaign Support:

Assist in brainstorming and executing marketing campaigns using photo and video assets

Provide creative input on how to use visuals to maximize engagement

Qualifications:

Proficiency with photography and videography equipment

Experience with photo and video editing software (e.g., Capcut, Canva, Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, Premiere Pro, or equivalent)

Familiarity with social media platforms, trends, and content creation tools

Motivation for working with diverse children or youth in an outdoor setting

Strong organizational skills to manage and store large quantities of digital content effectively

Creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to meet deadlines

Passion for the mission of The Watershed Institute

Creativity and ability to recognize photographic opportunities

Preferred Skills:

Experience working with educational programs, camps, or youth organizations

Knowledge of current social media trends and strategies for audience engagement

Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Application:

Submit your resume and a cover letter to The Watershed Institute with subject line Summer Photography Intern at [email protected]. OR complete this application.

Delaware River Watershed Fellow

Start date: June 1-8, 2026

End date: August 14-21, 2026

The Delaware River Watershed Fellowship is a 12-week, paid summer job opportunity designed to introduce young people from local communities to careers in environmental education. Fellows are hired at one of 23 environmental education centers across the Delaware River Watershed. Fellows participate in training sessions to help prepare them for a summer of helping people connect with nature and informing their local communities about issues affecting the Delaware River, the source of drinking water for 15 million people living in the region.

The Watershed Institute is a member of the Alliance for Watershed Education (AWE), is seeking to hire a Fellow from the Greater Trenton area to help connect with local community members around protecting the Delaware River and its waterways.

Position Location: The Fellow will work onsite at The Watershed Institute, 31 Titus Mill Road, Pennington, NJ 08534 as well as in Trenton.

Compensation: Fellows are paid $16.50/hr, 35-40 hours a week over the summer.

Duties:

Fellows will participate in a 3-day mandatory watershed education training, at the Pocono Environmental Education Center (overnight, June 10-12.) http://www.peec.org/

Fellows will help lead programs and activities for community members and visitors to The Watershed Institute.

Fellows will attend in-person meetings with Fellows from other AWE Centers.

With guidance from their supervisor and mentors, Fellows will focus their efforts on a specific Capstone Project and present their work at the end-of-program Summit event (August 14).

Fellows will document their progress by completing a short log report every week.

At The Watershed Institute the AWE Fellow will specifically:

Assist with the maintenance and care of the Kate Gorrie butterfly house.

Learn how to care for caterpillars, butterflies, and their native host plants, while learning about their importance in the environment.

Assist with educating visitors to the butterfly house and rain gardens. This includes presenting scheduled educational programs and facilitating interactions with casual visitors to the house and gardens.

Engage a partner organization in the Greater Trenton Area in a Capstone project.

Qualifications and Experience:

Age 18+ by June 8, 2026 start date.

A background in environmental education is not required.

A positive attitude and willingness to greet visitors and start conversations with them.

Ability to work outdoors in the summer to maintain gardens. Willingness to get your hands in the soil.

Willingness to touch insects including caterpillars and insect predators.

Willingness to learn and teach about pollinators, native plants, and rain gardens.

Conversational Spanish language abilities are a plus.

Ability to travel to Pennington a minimum of 3 days a week – limited travel compensation is available from the Alliance for Watershed Education.

Fellows will work part time in Trenton, NJ. Familiarity with community groups in Trenton is a plus.

Essential dates:

June 8: Fellow start date at The Watershed Institute

June 10-12: Fellowship Orientation (overnight) at Pocono Environmental Education Center (Meals, transportation, and accommodation provided)

August 14: Watershed Fellowship Summit

August 21: Last day of Fellowship (Fellows may finish their term of service any time after the August 14 Summit as needed)

If you have any questions regarding the position, please direct them to Jeff Hoagland, [email protected] or 609-737-3735.

The Watershed Institute is an equal opportunity employer.

Employment

Keeping water clean, safe, and healthy is the heart of our mission.

Current Job Openings

The Watershed Institute

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