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Community + collaboration: Summer teaching jobs and more at EXPLO 

Learning should be fun. Seems obvious, right? After all, we know that this is when it’s the most engaging and effective. Though many summer enrichment programs put learning and fun side by side, no one combines them in quite the way EXPLO does. If you want to put this educational ideal into action, we have a dream job for you this summer as a teacher or adviser.

2025 Employment Dates

  • Student Advisors:
  • June 25- July 26, 2025

  • Instructors:
  • June 26 - July 25, 2025

  • Application deadline: Rolling

 

What we’re like 

We’ve been working to inspire 12-14 year-olds (grades 6-8) since 1984. We understand that middle schoolers are figuring out who they want to be—and experimenting with becoming. This can feel chaotic at times, but it's an exhilarating journey of discovery. That’s exactly why we love it.

 

Who we’re looking for 

We need people who are as curious and creative as we are. Passion for working with kids and fostering their emotional and academic growth through hands-on experience is essential. We value people who can build community and relationships with their peers as well as with teens and tweens.

Job Descriptions

Student Advisor

Student Advisor

EXPLO Middle School at Wellesley College, Wellesley, MA

www.explo.org

Dates (in person): June 25, 2025 - July 26, 2025

We are seeking enthusiastic, creative people who enjoy working as a team and are excited to help ignite our students’ curiosity and create an inclusive, safe, and joyful campus community.

About the Program:

EXPLO Middle School is a 4-week summer program for students who are currently in grades 6-8.  It includes two 2-week sessions taking place at Wellesley College’s campus in Wellesley, Massachusetts, USA.  Students will either participate in EXPLO 360°, in which they will take a variety of classes over their two weeks, or in one of our Focus programs — Veterinary Science or Medical Rotations. Classes will be taught by subject-area experts and professional teachers, and Student Advisors will facilitate activities, events, and all other parts of the campus community experience. 

The Opportunity

As a Student Advisor at EXPLO Middle School, you will help to shape a transformative experience for our students, and create an enriching, safe, and supportive student life experience.  Your primary role will be supervising and engaging with students in both large and small group settings, and you will be an integral part of our students' journey, providing support, guidance, and mentorship.  You may be asked to assist in classroom settings, offering support to our instructors and enhancing the overall learning environment, and there may be opportunities for advisors to teach an elective in an area of interest.  In addition, you will work with our Director of Programming to coordinate engaging activities, plan evening events, and chaperone trips.  The days will be busy, and your efforts will help create an unforgettable summer experience, filled with exploration, discovery, and joyous learning.

Student Advisor Responsibilities

  • Work with a co-advisor to supervise, care for, and advise a combined group of residential and day students
  • Provide a healthy, safe, and engaging living environment for students; most advisors will remain on-call in the dorm every other night, while some will share primary oversight for all students who are commuting to campus
  • Assist instructors, as needed, in the classroom
  • Chaperone students on weekend trips throughout the Boston area, as well as class trips as needed
  • Take charge of a specific program support role (e.g. coordinating activities, managing supplies, designing the daily newsletter, planning trips, or teaching an elective), help to run afternoon activities and evening events, and assist with other program tasks

Dates, Compensation + Benefits

  • This is a 4.5-week, residential, seasonal position. A 3-day, on-campus, in-person training and orientation will start on Thursday, June 26.
  • Compensation for this role is $4,000, with an additional stipend for Student Advisors who teach electives.
  • Room and board are provided for the duration of the program.  

About You

  • You will have completed at least 1 year of college, or have the equivalent post-secondary school experience, by the start of the program.
  • You are able to live and work on campus for the duration of the program.
  • You are authorized to work in the United States, and/or have the ability to obtain authorization by the start of the program.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment

  • This position will require staff members to occasionally assist with a variety of physical tasks, including carrying signage and supplies, event set-up and tear-down, and standing or walking for prolonged periods of time during events; responsibilities before students arrive will include setting up both indoor and outdoor spaces.
  • The Wellesley College campus is large and spread out, and we will be using spaces throughout the campus.  Because of this, days will include significant amounts of walking.  In addition, weekend trips may also include walking tours and similar demands.  

EXPLO will make reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act that would enable employees to perform the essential functions of their job.  Accommodations must be requested in writing prior to the summer.  

To apply, please complete this application. You may also send questions to faculty_hiring@explo.org.

--

EXPLO is an equal opportunity employer.  We have a clear vision: to be an organization that attracts a diverse mix of talented people to come and do their best work.  We are building a team that values diversity and belonging.  EXPLO, as a part of the Exploration School, does not discriminate on the basis of physical handicap, sex, race, creed, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, marital status, or national or ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions, scholarships, or other social programs.  It affords all students the rights and privileges that are generally made available at the School.

Arts, Humanities + Social Sciences Instructor

Arts, Humanities + Social Sciences Instructor

EXPLO Middle School at Wellesley College, Wellesley, MA

www.explo.org

Dates (in person): June 26, 2025 - July 25, 2025 (weekdays only)

We are seeking dynamic teachers and creative professionals to engage curious students at our EXPLO Middle School Program at Wellesley College.

About the Program:

EXPLO Middle School is a 4-week summer program for students who are currently in grades 6-8.  It includes two 2-week sessions taking place at Wellesley College’s campus in Wellesley, MA.  Students will either participate in EXPLO 360°, in which they will take a variety of classes over their two weeks, or in one of our Focus programs — Veterinary Science or Medical Rotations. Classes will be taught by subject-area experts and professional teachers, and Student Advisors will facilitate activities, events, and all other parts of the campus community experience. 

The Opportunity

As an Instructor, you will engage with a dynamic, project-based curriculum crafted by EXPLO’s professional curriculum development team, yet retain the flexibility to infuse your teaching with your unique expertise, interests, and passions.  In this role, you will guide bright and curious students through an experience that emphasizes collaboration, critical thinking, and real-world problem solving, supported on the ground by EXPLO’s Office of Teaching and Learning.  You will have the opportunity to facilitate connections with guest speakers and others who are shaping the future in your field, and inspire students to explore both new areas of study and potential future career paths.

Instructor Responsibilities

  • Review existing project-based curriculum and work closely with our curriculum coaches to customize it based on your areas of interest, research, and/or professional practice
  • Teach two or three 75-minute classes each weekday
  • Complete the relevant and necessary daily preparation required for delivering an engaging student experience
  • Facilitate connections with external partners and guest speakers, as appropriate
  • Attend weekly faculty meetings, and provide student feedback throughout the summer

Humanities Classes Offered

  • Philosophy & Ethics
  • Personality & Behavioral Psychology
  • Business & Investments
  • Entrepreneurship
  • International Law & Diplomacy
  • Studio Art
  • Creative Writing
  • Strategy Game Design
  • Gastronomy: Art & Science of Cooking
  • Marketing & Advertising
  • Government Simulation
  • Architecture
  • Comedy: Improv & Beyond
  • World Cooking

In addition to the courses above, there are afternoon electives, in all fields, that rotate each week.

Dates, Compensation + Benefits

  • This is a 4.5-week seasonal position. A 2-day, on-campus, in-person training and orientation will start on Thursday, June 26.  Dates for pre-season, remote coaching (primarily including the review of lesson plans and course content) are flexible, and will be discussed as part of any job offer.  
  • Compensation for this role, assuming a teaching load of 2 classes, is $4,200 to $5,000, based on relevant training and experience.  Lunch is provided for all instructors.
  • As noted above, campus housing for instructors is very limited; if campus housing is needed, instructors will be expected to fulfill additional program responsibilities, to be discussed during the hiring process.

About You

  • You have earned, at minimum, a bachelor’s degree, with coursework and/or professional experience directly related to the classes you will teach.
  • You are available to work on campus for the duration of the program.  Please note: campus housing may be available, on a very limited basis, for applicants not local to the Boston/Wellesley area.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment

  • This position will require staff members to occasionally assist with a variety of physical tasks, including carrying signage and supplies, event set-up and tear-down, and standing or walking for prolonged periods of time during events; responsibilities before students arrive will include setting up both indoor and outdoor spaces.
  • The Wellesley College campus is large and spread out, and we will be using spaces throughout the campus.  Because of this, days will include significant amounts of walking.  In addition, weekend trips may also include walking tours and similar demands.  

EXPLO will make reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act that would enable employees to perform the essential functions of their job.  Accommodations must be requested in writing prior to the summer.  

**

To apply, please complete this application. You may also send questions to faculty_hiring@explo.org.

--

EXPLO is an equal opportunity employer.  We have a clear vision: to be an organization that attracts a diverse mix of talented people to come and do their best work.  We are building a team that values diversity and belonging.  EXPLO, as a part of the Exploration School, does not discriminate on the basis of physical handicap, sex, race, creed, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, marital status, or national or ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions, scholarships, or other social programs.  It affords all students the rights and privileges that are generally made available at the School.

STEM Instructor

EXPLO Middle School STEM Instructor

EXPLO Middle School at Wellesley College, Wellesley, MA

www.explo.org

Dates (in person): June 26, 2025 - July 25, 2025 (weekdays only)

We are seeking dynamic teachers, creative professionals, and innovative researchers  to engage curious students at our EXPLO Middle School Program at Wellesley College.

About the Program:

EXPLO Middle School is a 4-week summer program for students who are currently in grades 6-8.  It includes two 2-week sessions taking place at Wellesley College’s campus in Wellesley, MA.  Students will either participate in EXPLO 360°, in which they will take a variety of classes over their two weeks, or in one of our Focus programs — Veterinary Science or Medical Rotations. Classes will be taught by subject-area experts and professional teachers, and Student Advisors will facilitate activities, events, and all other parts of the campus community experience. 

The Opportunity

As an Instructor, you will engage with a dynamic, project-based curriculum crafted by EXPLO’s professional curriculum development team, yet retain the flexibility to infuse your teaching with your unique expertise, interests, and passions.  In this role, you will guide bright and curious students through an experience that emphasizes collaboration, critical thinking, and real-world problem solving, supported on the ground by EXPLO’s Office of Teaching and Learning.  You will have the opportunity to facilitate connections with guest speakers and others who are shaping the future in your field, and inspire students to explore both new areas of study and potential future career paths.

Instructor Responsibilities

  • Review existing project-based curriculum and work closely with our curriculum coaches to customize it based on your areas of interest, research, and/or professional practice
  • Teach two or three 75-minute classes each weekday
  • Complete the relevant and necessary daily preparation required for delivering an engaging student experience
  • Facilitate connections with external partners and guest speakers, as appropriate
  • Attend weekly faculty meetings, and provide student feedback throughout the summer

STEM Classes Include:

  • Environmental Science
  • Engineering in Action
  • Forensic Science
  • Medicine: First Aid & Clinical Skills
  • Psychopathology
  • Aeronautical Engineering
  • Robotics: Mars Exploration
  • Game Theory
  • Gastronomy: Art & Science of Cooking

In addition to the courses above, there are afternoon electives, in all fields, that rotate each week.

Dates, Compensation + Benefits

  • This is a 4.5-week seasonal position. A 2-day, on-campus, in-person training and orientation will start on Thursday, June 26.  Dates for pre-season, remote coaching (primarily including the review of lesson plans and course content) are flexible, and will be discussed as part of any job offer.  
  • Compensation for this role, assuming a teaching load of 2 classes, is $4,200 to $5,000, based on relevant training and experience.  Lunch is provided for all instructors.
  • As noted above, campus housing for instructors is very limited; if campus housing is needed, instructors will be expected to fulfill additional program responsibilities, to be discussed during the hiring process.

About You

  • You have earned, at minimum, a bachelor’s degree, with coursework and/or professional experience directly related to the classes you will teach.
  • You are available to work on campus for the duration of the program.  Please note: campus housing may be available, on a very limited basis, for applicants not local to the Boston/Wellesley area.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment

  • This position will require staff members to occasionally assist with a variety of physical tasks, including carrying signage and supplies, event set-up and tear-down, and standing or walking for prolonged periods of time during events; responsibilities before students arrive will include setting up both indoor and outdoor spaces.
  • The Wellesley College campus is large and spread out, and we will be using spaces throughout the campus.  Because of this, days will include significant amounts of walking.  In addition, weekend trips may also include walking tours and similar demands.  

EXPLO will make reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act that would enable employees to perform the essential functions of their job.  Accommodations must be requested in writing prior to the summer. 

**

To apply, please complete this application. You may also send questions to faculty_hiring@explo.org.

--

EXPLO is an equal opportunity employer.  We have a clear vision: to be an organization that attracts a diverse mix of talented people to come and do their best work.  We are building a team that values diversity and belonging.  EXPLO, as a part of the Exploration School, does not discriminate on the basis of physical handicap, sex, race, creed, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, marital status, or national or ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions, scholarships, or other social programs.  It affords all students the rights and privileges that are generally made available at the School.

Summer Program Assistant

Summer Program Assistant

EXPLO Middle School at Wellesley College, Wellesley, MA

www.explo.org

Dates (in person): June 26, 2025 - July 25, 2025

We are seeking enthusiastic people who enjoy working as a team and are excited to contribute to creating an inclusive and safe campus community and a joyful summer experience for our students.

About the Program:

EXPLO Middle School is a 4-week summer program for students who are currently in grades 6-8.  It includes two 2-week sessions taking place at Wellesley College’s campus in Wellesley, Massachusetts, USA.  Students will either participate in EXPLO 360°, in which they will take a variety of classes over their two weeks, or in one of our Focus programs — Veterinary Science or Medical Rotations. Classes will be taught by subject-area experts and professional teachers, and Student Advisors will facilitate activities, events, and all other parts of the campus community experience. 

The Opportunity

The Summer Program Assistant role at EXPLO Middle School is perfect for current undergraduates and/or rising seniors in high school who are seeking a flexible, support-driven position within an educational setting.  This hourly, non-residential role is integral to the smooth operation of our program, offering an engaging work experience.  Primary responsibilities will encompass a variety of operational tasks.  Adaptability and problem-solving skills will be key, as you assist in chaperoning afternoon activities and weekend trips, providing an additional layer of support to our programming.  Your commitment, though hourly, is crucial to the heart of our program, and you will be a vital member of our team, contributing to the creation of an inspiring and transformative learning environment for our students.  

Summer Program Assistant Responsibilities

  • Assist with running afternoon activities and supervising students across campus and in town, under the direction of the Director of Programming
  • Assist full-time staff with chaperoning students on weekend trips throughout the Boston area
  • Contribute to providing a healthy, safe, and engaging campus environment for students

Dates + Compensation

  • Compensation for this role is $18/hour.
  • The program runs for 4 weeks, with an additional training requirement for all staff. 
  • We are looking to hire staff for our weekday afternoon activities blocks (2:30-6:30 p.m.) and for weekend trips (July 5-6 + July 19-20, times will vary based on trip, but may be 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.).  Hours will be scheduled based on need and availability; the maximum available hours each week will be approximately 35-38.

About You

  • You are authorized to work in the United States, and/or have the ability to obtain authorization by the start of the program.
  • You have a valid driver’s license, and the ability to commute to and from Wellesley College.  Parking is available on campus.
  • You have completed at least your junior year in high school.
  • You have the ability to work afternoons and weekends.  Preference will be given to applicants who can work at least 4 days out of the week, including at least one weekend day.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment

  • This position will require staff members to occasionally assist with a variety of physical tasks, including carrying signage and supplies, event set-up and tear-down, and standing or walking for prolonged periods of time during events; responsibilities before students arrive will include setting up both indoor and outdoor spaces.
  • The Wellesley College campus is large and spread out, and we will be using spaces throughout the campus.  Because of this, days will include significant amounts of walking.  In addition, weekend trips may also include walking tours and similar demands.  

EXPLO will make reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act that would enable employees to perform the essential functions of their job.  Accommodations must be requested in writing prior to the summer.

**

To apply, please complete this application. You may also send questions to faculty_hiring@explo.org.

--

EXPLO is an equal opportunity employer.  We have a clear vision: to be an organization that attracts a diverse mix of talented people to come and do their best work.  We are building a team that values diversity and belonging.  EXPLO, as a part of the Exploration School, does not discriminate on the basis of physical handicap, sex, race, creed, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, marital status, or national or ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions, scholarships, or other social programs.  It affords all students the rights and privileges that are generally made available at the School.

Photo/Video Journalist

Photo/Video Journalist

EXPLO Middle School at Wellesley College, Wellesley, MA

www.explo.org

Dates (in person): June 25, 2025 - July 26, 2025

We are looking for a creative person with a talent for storytelling to capture the magic of our summer programs through photographs and videos of students and staff.

About the Program:

EXPLO Middle School is a 4-week summer program for students who are currently in grades 6-8.  It includes two 2-week sessions taking place at Wellesley College’s campus in Wellesley, Massachusetts, USA.  Students will either participate in EXPLO 360°, in which they will take a variety of classes over their two weeks, or in one of our Focus programs — Veterinary Science or Medical Rotations. Classes will be taught by subject-area experts and professional teachers, and Student Advisors will facilitate activities, events, and all other parts of the campus community experience. 

The Opportunity

The Photo/video Journalist is responsible for telling the story of EXPLO through our online photo and video platform for students, staff, and families, as well as capturing content for social media, blog posts, and other marketing pieces.  Always looking to capture the next great moment on campus, the Photo/video Journalist compiles photo and video clips of the dozens of classes, activities, events, and trips that happen each day.  While this position does not involve primary responsibility for supervising students, this person interacts with students through the lens of their camera, and they are an integral part of the EXPLO community throughout the summer, highlighting the experiences and joy of everyone they encounter.  In addition to the Photo/video Journalist’s primary job responsibilities, they also assist with programmatic tasks and weekend trips, and otherwise contribute to the success of the Program both in and out of the classroom.

Student Advisor Responsibilities

  • Take daily photos and videos of happenings on campus
  • Sort through, format, and publish content to be shared with EXPLO families and others
  • Conduct interviews with students and staff and write blog posts about exciting events on campus
  • Create a flexible daily schedule that allows for a variety of classes, events, and activities to be captured with quality photos 
  • Collaborate and coordinate with other staff and members of the Leadership Team
  • Communicate daily with EXPLO’s year-round marketing team to receive guidance and feedback on quality and standard of work
  • Produce an end-of-session slideshow once per session to be shared with students on the final night of the program

Dates, Compensation + Benefits

  • This is a 4.5-week, residential, seasonal position. A 3-day, on-campus, in-person training and orientation will start on Thursday, June 26.
  • Compensation for this role is $3,300.
  • Room and board are provided for the duration of the program.  

About You

  • You will have completed at least 1 year of college, or have the equivalent post-secondary school experience, by the start of the program.
  • You have experience capturing stories through photos, videos, and blog-style writing, and familiarity with both photo and video equipment and digital editing software.
  • You are able to live and work on campus for the duration of the program.
  • You are authorized to work in the United States, and/or have the ability to obtain authorization by the start of the program.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment

  • This position will require staff members to occasionally assist with a variety of physical tasks, including carrying signage and supplies, event set-up and tear-down, and standing or walking for prolonged periods of time during events; responsibilities before students arrive will include setting up both indoor and outdoor spaces.
  • The Wellesley College campus is large and spread out, and we will be using spaces throughout the campus.  Because of this, days will include significant amounts of walking.  In addition, weekend trips may also include walking tours and similar demands.  

EXPLO will make reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act that would enable employees to perform the essential functions of their job.  Accommodations must be requested in writing prior to the summer.  

**

To apply, please complete this application. You may also send questions to faculty_hiring@explo.org.

--

EXPLO is an equal opportunity employer.  We have a clear vision: to be an organization that attracts a diverse mix of talented people to come and do their best work.  We are building a team that values diversity and belonging.  EXPLO, as a part of the Exploration School, does not discriminate on the basis of physical handicap, sex, race, creed, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, marital status, or national or ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions, scholarships, or other social programs.  It affords all students the rights and privileges that are generally made available at the School.

Residence Director

Residence Director

EXPLO Middle School at Wellesley College, Wellesley, MA

www.explo.org

Dates (in person): June 23, 2025 - July 26, 2025

We are seeking enthusiastic, caring people who enjoy working as a team and are excited to help ignite our students’ curiosity and create an inclusive, safe, and joyful campus community.

About the Program:

EXPLO Middle School is a 4-week summer program for students who are currently in grades 6-8.  It includes two 2-week sessions taking place at Wellesley College’s campus in Wellesley, Massachusetts, USA.  Students will either participate in EXPLO 360°, in which they will take a variety of classes over their two weeks, or in one of our Focus programs — Veterinary Science or Medical Rotations. Classes will be taught by subject-area experts and professional teachers, and Student Advisors will facilitate activities, events, and all other parts of the campus community experience. 

The Opportunity

Residence Directors are members of the Office of Student Life, the summer team charged with creating community on campus and ensuring that students have both a safe and joyful experience while at the Program.  Residence Directors work with the Dean and Assistant Dean to oversee all aspects of dorm and student life, including student conduct, discipline, health, and safety.  They supervise and provide support for Student Advisors as they mentor their student advising groups.  Residence Directors also spend a significant amount of time communicating with caregivers, both via email and on the phone, regarding student experiences at the program.  In addition to their primary job responsibilities, Residence Directors will perform a variety of other tasks that contribute to the Program's success, which will include chaperoning weekend trips, supervising students throughout campus and the town of Wellesley, and assisting with event setup.

Residence Director Responsibilities

  • Supervise, advise, support, and provide regular feedback for a group of Advisors
  • Support students as they navigate social and emotional challenges; establish and maintain a healthy, safe, and engaging residential life environment
  • Communicate proactively with caregivers to share student experiences, challenges, and progress; partner with caregivers of students to support their child when the need arises
  • Effectively and justly respond to student behaviors and actions when they are not aligned with community expectations
  • Assist the Dean and Assistant Dean with the coordination, planning, and implementation of student life initiatives and campus policies
  • Assist the Office of Student Life with operational tasks such as handling student mail, serving as a liaison between the program and college maintenance staff, and ensuring that student birthdays are celebrated
  • Provide leadership in all aspects of the summer program, including off-campus trips, activities, workshops, and evening events
  • Live on campus and support operational and programmatic tasks, as needed, that are necessary to the success of the program

Dates, Compensation + Benefits

  • This is a 4.5-week, residential, seasonal position, with required on-campus, in-person training and orientation prior to the arrival of students.
  • Compensation for this role is $5,000, with an additional stipend for Student Advisors who teach electives.
  • Room and board are provided for the duration of the program.  

About You

  • You will have completed at least 3 years of college/university, or have the equivalent post-secondary school experience, by the start of the program.
  • You are able to live and work on campus for the duration of the program.
  • You are authorized to work in the United States, and/or have the ability to obtain authorization by the start of the program.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment

  • This position will require staff members to occasionally assist with a variety of physical tasks, including carrying signage and supplies, event set-up and tear-down, and standing or walking for prolonged periods of time during events; responsibilities before students arrive will include setting up both indoor and outdoor spaces.
  • The Wellesley College campus is large and spread out, and we will be using spaces throughout the campus.  Because of this, days will include significant amounts of walking.  In addition, weekend trips may also include walking tours and similar demands.  

EXPLO will make reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act that would enable employees to perform the essential functions of their job.  Accommodations must be requested in writing prior to the summer.  

**

To apply, please complete this application. You may also send questions to faculty_hiring@explo.org.

 

--

EXPLO is an equal opportunity employer.  We have a clear vision: to be an organization that attracts a diverse mix of talented people to come and do their best work.  We are building a team that values diversity and belonging.  EXPLO, as a part of the Exploration School, does not discriminate on the basis of physical handicap, sex, race, creed, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, marital status, or national or ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions, scholarships, or other social programs.  It affords all students the rights and privileges that are generally made available at the School.

What can you expect

What can you expect from a summer teaching job at EXPLO? More than you might think!

EXPLO has a long and strong reputation for excellent professional development.  You will be doing real and important work.  No pushing papers,  grabbing coffee for someone, or observing from afar.  You will be doing it from day one.  

Our organizational model is designed for you to receive regular feedback so that you can quickly grow your skills.  Whether you are still in school and exploring where your own interests lie, in the early stages of your career trying to figure out if education is your field, or a seasoned instructor or industry practitioner who wants to improve their teaching practice, EXPLO will help you make progress.  Many of our former managers and administrators are now school, university, and non-profit leaders, but also leaders in medicine, law, engineering, marketing, business, and numerous other fields.  Many have told us years later that EXPLO is the place where they got their best professional development. 

Our salaries are very competitive. Room and board is covered for Student Advisor positions, and lunch is available for Instructors. And then there are the extras.  Student Advisors could find themselves supervising trips to theatrical performances, professional baseball games, top-flight museums, or even outdoor adventure trips.

At EXPLO, each day is packed with activity—for students and staff. Most weekdays consist of hands-on highly engaging academics where students are digging into projects, connecting with experts, conducting experiments, debating, creating, and discovering.  When not in workshops or electives, there is a full roster of activities, led by our residential staff, from sports to cooking, current events to nature walks, jam sessions to improv groups.  EXPLO leads the industry in the breadth of its organized student programming.

Evening events often include staff-organized themed events, and we encourage staff to bring their own interests to our community, showcasing their talents and helping our students discover a new passion.  On weekends staff lead off-campus trips to various locations—you might spend the day at the beach, take students to learn glassblowing, go rafting, ride a roller coaster, or check out the newest museum exhibit.

Staff members are contracted to work the entire duration of the program. We are in session for four weeks at Wellesley College, so you would be expected to work those four weeks plus a three-day orientation on campus.

Professional guidelines

To make EXPLO the experience we want to provide to our students, faculty need to adhere to these guidelines.

The health and safety of all our students and faculty are our highest priorities. No matter what your role is, it will be your responsibility to help make EXPLO an environment in which students can learn and grow in a way appropriate for their age. Classes, activities, residential floors, and trips all need to make students feel physically, emotionally, and intellectually safe, even when being challenged. Enforcement of program guidelines concerning student conduct is essential to this objective.

The use of drugs or alcohol at EXPLO is strictly prohibited. Because each faculty member is responsible for the safety and wellbeing of our students, we must mandate a high standard for faculty concerning the use of drugs and alcohol. At no time should any faculty member on- or off-duty be under the influence of illegal or other non-medicinal drugs, or possess them on-campus. At no time should any faculty member be under the influence of alcohol on-duty or return to campus while under the influence after being off-duty. Consumption of alcohol by off-duty faculty over the age of 21 is restricted to off-campus locations only.

We take the commitment you’re making when you apply for a position seriously. Once you’ve accepted a position, EXPLO will incur obligations and make commitments to participants based on your being available at the program. Any sudden cancellation of your involvement could severely damage the program’s quality and cause irreparable economic loss to EXPLO. 

Please only apply for a position if you are prepared to make a commitment to work for EXPLO for the entire duration of the summer program. If you plan to look for full-time employment after the summer is over, it is possible that a potential employer may wish you to start during the summer. If this would prevent you from fulfilling the entirety of your responsibilities to EXPLO, you should not consider applying for a position at EXPLO at this time.

Frequently Asked Questions

You've got questions–we've got answers.

All correspondence regarding your application is sent via email. Emails may come from our program database, called Campsite, as well as from individuals within EXPLO (all with explo.org email addresses). It is important that you regularly check your inbox (and spam folder) for important updates, and that you reply to all communications in a timely fashion.

We ask that you submit professional references—such as teachers, professors, job or volunteer supervisors—who can speak to your potential to thrive as an EXPLO staff member. Examples of references we would not accept include personal references such as parents, friends, or peers.

While EXPLO does not directly sponsor visas, college students seeking employment as Student Advisor may be able to obtain CPT authorization through their college/university. Applicants are encouraged to inquire with their institution’s international student office to confirm eligibility before applying. Instructor candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.

We make our best effort to move applications along as quickly as possible, and to keep candidates informed throughout the process. In some cases when we are considering multiple candidates for a role, the process may take several weeks or more. As a general rule, you can expect to hear from us regarding the status of your application within a few weeks of applying.  Initial communications will be via email.

In the spring, all EXPLO instructors are assigned a curriculum coach, who advises them on EXPLO’s teaching style, and on the lesson plans specific to their workshop and/or elective. This provides a wonderful chance to prepare class logistics, become familiar with course content, reflect on teaching style and strategy, and build excitement for a great summer of teaching!

The curriculum for all of our workshops and electives is written by EXPLO’s professional curriculum development team. If you are hired to teach a workshop and/or elective, we will provide you with a complete set of lesson plans outlining the activities for the workshop/elective, materials needed for each activity, etc. You will have a chance to familiarize yourself with the lesson plans, as well as to adapt them based on your own skills, expertise, and experience, in consultation with a curriculum coach.

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