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

Event Coordinator

Job Title: Events Coordinator 
Location: The Watershed Institute, Pennington, NJ 
Job Type: Part-Time, in person, 20-24 hours per week 
Reports To: Senior Director of Advancement 
Application Deadline: January 30, 2026

About The Watershed Institute: 

The Watershed Institute is dedicated to keeping New Jersey’s water clean, safe, and healthy. Through a combination of  conservation, advocacy, science, and education, we work to protect and restore our environment and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards. 

Position Summary: 

The Events  Coordinator oversees all Watershed Signature events as well as rental events as needed.  

Key Responsibilities:

Manage all aspects of event planning from conception to post event;

Work collaboratively with departments to produce small and large-scale events including galas and other fundraising events, community events, conferences, and gatherings;

Serve as point person for all rental inquiries including meeting with clients, promoting the venue, and working with vendors; 
On-site management of rental events that reoccur every year. There are currently 10 scheduled for 2026;

Coordinate and collaborate with Watershed departments to establish needs for events and serve as liaison among departments throughout the planning process; 
Manage needed volunteers for high-end special events; 
Plan and facilitate logistics for all events, including contract negotiations, venue preparation, catering, entertainment, equipment, décor; 
Oversee guest experiences from conception through post-event, managing on-site preparations, production, and event breakdown, ensuring consistent, high-level service throughout all phases; 
Nurture and build relationships with vendors to craft and implement creative and logistical aspects of all events; 
Troubleshoot and manage any challenges and opportunities that arise before, during and after an event. Ensure all post event facilities are completed; 
And other duties as assigned.

Qualifications: 

Proven success as an event planner or coordinator

Strong interpersonal and communication skills

Experience in maintaining and building enriching vendor relationships

Excellent organizational skills, including multitasking, time management, and meticulous attention to detail

Ability to work, adjust, and make swift decisions under pressure

Flexibility to work nights, and holidays

Ability to collaborate with diverse needs, personalities, and work styles with optimism and a solution discovery mindset

Be comfortable with technology and be able to manage and use different software platforms for events.

Compensation & Benefits: 

Salary range: $24–26 per hour, commensurate with experience. 

A collaborative and mission-driven work environment

How to Apply: 

Submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references to [email protected]. Please include “Events Coordinator” in the subject line. 

The Watershed Institute is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

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.

Employment

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

Current Job Openings

The Watershed Institute

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