Outdoor Science School; Residential Program Specialist

Santa Cruz County Office of Education is committed to ensuring all students have the educational opportunities they need to thrive. We offer a wide range of services and programs supporting our 10 public school districts and expanding educational opportunities for over 37,000 students in Santa Cruz County. Our mission is to create an equitable educational system that fosters growth, opportunities, and well-being for all.

About the role

We’re seeking high-energy, creative leaders who love working with students and aren’t afraid to take the stage. Lead lively evening campfire programs for up to 240 students—bringing the fun through music, interactive songs/chants, and skits—while also facilitating daily activities and meals. Mentor and supervise 5th–6th graders and high school cabin leaders, helping build a positive, inclusive school community. This is a residential role with overnight, on-call responsibilities to ensure student safety and support. Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead evening campfire programs for up to 240 students using music, interactive songs/chants, and skits
• Facilitate daily activities and meals for students
• Mentor and supervise 5th–6th graders and high school cabin leaders
• Build a positive, inclusive school community
• Provide overnight, on-call support to ensure student safety

Schedule

Position begins in mid-September 2026 (or as soon as possible thereafter) and continues until early June 2027, with Thanksgiving and winter breaks. Approximately 34 weeks and 107 work shifts during the school year.

• Three overnight shifts per week, totaling 42.5 hours (40 regular time and 2.5 overtime)
• Occasional weeks requiring four shifts (including Monday afternoon–Tuesday morning)
• Overtime (1.5x pay) after 40 hours in a week
• Residential shifts:
• Tuesday 4:30pm – Wednesday 9:30am (three ½-hour unpaid lunch breaks and three 10-minute paid breaks)
• Wednesday 8:30pm – Thursday 9:30am (two ½-hour unpaid lunch breaks and two 10-minute paid breaks)
• Thursday 4:30pm – Friday 9:00am (three ½-hour unpaid lunch breaks and three 10-minute paid breaks)

Residential program specialists may continue with the program in subsequent school years indefinitely.

Pay

• Pay range: $17.41 - $19.98 per hour
• Starting salary: $774.76 weekly ($17.41/hour regular time, $26.12/hour overtime)
• 3+ hours of overtime guaranteed each week
• 2.5% stipend for bilingual English/Spanish, 5% stipend for biliterate English/Spanish

Benefits

• Single-only dental and vision benefits
• Dinner and breakfast provided
• Room and board provided during work shifts
• Sick days accrued
• Classified temporary position