A STEM Specialist leads and inspires campers through hands-on, inquiry-based science, technology, engineering, and math experiences. This role is ideal for someone who loves working with children, thrives in a collaborative environment, brings curiosity, creativity, and enthusiasm to each day. We are seeking an educator who both inspires and someone who is comfortable guiding children through hands-on, inquiry-based STEM experiences in a joyful, age-appropriate way. The goal of our STEM program is to introduce young children to the exciting world of science, technology, engineering, and math while fostering problem-solving skills, creativity, and confidence. Through engaging, multidisciplinary activities and experiments, children are encouraged to explore, ask questions, think critically, and develop positive self-esteem in a supportive and nurturing learning environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Facilitate engaging STEM activities such as experiments, building challenges, engineering projects, coding games, problem-solving tasks, and math-based explorations within afterschool and summer camp programs
- Plan and deliver appropriate daily lessons that encourage curiosity, exploration, and critical thinking, and may culminate in a culminating STEM project or showcase
- Provide active group supervision with a focus on positive behavior guidance, safety, security, and skill development
- Use effective classroom management strategies to foster an inclusive, supportive, and fun learning environment for all campers
- Motivate and engage campers through interactive, hands-on activities, games, and collaborative challenges
- Encourage creativity, innovation, and critical thinking through inquiry-based learning
- Collaborate closely with fellow instructors and counselors to support daily programming and shared responsibilities
- Complete assigned paperwork and documentation in a timely manner
- Support the Assistant Director and Director as needed
- Demonstrate professionalism through personal habits, appearance, communication, and relationships that model positive behavior for campers
- Commit to the growth, development, and well-being of youth while supporting the mission and values of the organization
- Attend all required staff training courses and meetings
- Be available for the full summer season—and bring a sense of joy, curiosity, and fun to the experience
Qualifications:
Experience developing, implementing, and leading engaging STEM programs for youth.
Minimum of 4 years of experience in STEM-related programming (science, technology, engineering, and/or math) within a summer day camp, afterschool program, or similar youth setting with a minimum of 2 years of experience in a group supervisory role preferred.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
- Ability to work as a team member with other counselors and adult staff members.
- Experience in working with children in a group setting.
- Responsible, friendly, enthusiastic, patient and willing to learn.
Compensation:
- This is a seasonal stipend-based position paid through payroll.
- The total summer stipend for this role is $5,260.08, covering the full Camp Funkist season (June 25–August 21, 2026), including required training days and scheduled camp days.
- Stipends are distributed semi-monthly in accordance with the YWCA payroll schedule and are prorated across all paid days in the season.
- This stipend reflects compensation for the full seasonal assignment and is not calculated on an hourly basis.