Why Cheekwood?

Working at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens offers you the opportunity to work for one of the most beautiful places in Nashville. Formerly the home of Mabel and Leslie Cheek, Cheekwood now serves the public as a botanical garden, arboretum, and museum with period rooms and art galleries. At Cheekwood, you will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of roles tailored to your skills and interests. Whether you are passionate about horticulture, art curation, historical preservation, or one of our many other career opportunities, you would have the chance to thrive and make a meaningful impact here. Working in such a place that cherishes its rich history, vibrant art scene, and serene gardens offers a unique blend of fulfillment and inspiration. You'll find yourself in a supportive environment where every day brings new opportunities for personal and professional growth, amidst the backdrop of picturesque setting.

What does the Cheekwood Summer Camp Team do?

At Cheekwood, the Summer Camp Team is responsible for creating a safe and engaging environment for campers. Their duties typically include supervising children, ensuring their safety, throughout daily camp activities such as arts and crafts, nature exploration and daily carpool. Staff members also act as role models, providing guidance and support to campers, resolving conflicts, and fostering positive social interactions. The overall goal is to ensure that campers have a fun, educational, and memorable experience.

What will you be doing?

The Assistant Camp Coordinator will assist in managing the behind-the-scenes details for Cheekwood’s summer day camp program for children ages 5-14. The role ensures that instructors have all that they need to run their lessons smoothly as well as ensuring campers are safe, happy, and engaging in camp activities. 

Essential Functions and Responsibilities 

• Assists Youth Programs Manager and the Director of Education & Outreach with various duties pertaining to summer camp setup, logistics, and classroom activity. 
• Maintains studio spaces and all stock supplies with weekly inventory. 
• Reviews instructor lesson plans and prepares materials for camps making sure they are ready to go every Monday morning. 
• Assists instructors as needed, locating additional supplies and equipment.  
• Oversees daily instructor check-in on supplies. 
• Facilitates extended care programs, including Lunch Care and After Care 
• Communicates supply and equipment needs to Youth Programs Manager. 
• Serves as substitute instructor as needed.  
• Provides excellent customer service for parents and children.  
• Administers basic first aid when necessary. 
• Assists with daily morning and afternoon carpool. 
• Assists with camp groups in the classroom or in the gardens as needed. Assisting with bathroom breaks, long walks, classroom. behavior management, etc. 

Secondary Activities and Responsibilities

• Knowledge of Cheekwood Education Department and the mission of the institution. 

• Essential - College Degree or equivalent experience in art, horticulture, or general education. 
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions. 
• Must be highly organized and detailed oriented.  
• Must have excellent time management skills. 
• Must enjoy and have a desire to work with children. 
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work well with others. 
• Works well in teams. 
• Ability to respond to emergency situations calmly and follow protocols. 
• Must have excellent customer service skills  
• Responsible attitude and professionalism toward career are essential.  

Required Work Schedule and Hours

• May 20 – July 30, 2026 
• 25 hours/week; Monday through Friday, 11:30 AM – 5 PM 

Part-time Benefits

• Membership & Discounts: As an employee, you receive a Cheekwood membership, which entitles you to unlimited admission during regular Garden hours and a limited number of free tickets to special events. Members also receive discounts on classes, ticketed events, and purchases at the Gift Shop. Your Cheekwood membership also include reciprocal admission for named members to more than 300 gardens though the American Horticultural Society.
• Reciprocal Admission: As an employee of Cheekwood you have free general admission access to many local cultural, historical, and art institutions as part of the employee admission program.