Summer Camp Unit Counselor

Summary/Objective:

Under moderate supervision, provide an effective day, hybrid, mini resident, and/or resident camp experience by engaging and supporting campers. Unit Counselors coordinate and develop programs, ensure active involvement in all aspects of camp, encourage self-growth and camper growth, and enthusiastically promote the Girl scout Mission.

You are/ You have:

• Willing and excited to teach, work and relate successfully with campers ages 5-18.
• Able to coordinate a variety of program activities in a camp setting.
• Confident in your leadership abilities.
• Willing to participate in training to develop physical, professional and behavior management skills.
• Ability to work with people of diverse backgrounds and abilities.
• Ability to think and act calmly in a crisis.
• Positive approach to all Camp rules, policies, and procedures.
• Demonstrated maturity, sense of humor, integrity, and flexibility.

Reports to: Unit leader, Administrative Staff & Camp Director

FLSA Status: Seasonal- Exempt

Pay: Daily/Weekly Rate

Essential Functions:

Physical & Mental Demands:

• Live in a variety of quarters with other staff outdoors which may include, but not limited to sleeping directly on the ground, primitive camping, rustic cabins, or dormitory cabins.
• Must possess strength and endurance, and emotional well-being required to maintain supervision of campers.
• Ability to go without personal electronic devices for several days at a time while on duty.
• Prolonged standing, some bending, stooping, climbing, and stretching.
• Hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity to manipulate outdoor and camp equipment.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs.
• Daily exposure to the sun, heat, and animals such as bugs, snakes, bats, etc.
• Hiking or walking long distances; up to 3-5 miles per day.

Program

• Supervise 10-40 campers each session with support from other unit staff.
• Lead in the planning, coordination, and delivery of camp program specific to your assigned unit.
• Comfortable working with girls ages 5-18.
• Works collaboratively with team to ensure active involvement of campers and staff in the overall camp program.
• Responsible for leading general activities such as arts and crafts, nature, science and sports and games.
• Ensure the proper care, use, and maintenance of equipment or materials used for camper activities.
• Participate in pre and post camp training, inventory, and general clean-up as assigned.
• Lead fun and meaningful activities for campers.
• Model constructive and enthusiastic participation in all program areas.

**Additional opportunities to become instructor certified in lifeguarding, mountain biking, watercrafts, archery, challenge course, and/or Rockwall/Zipline- Ask for more details during your scheduled interview**

Staff & Camper Support

• Maintain positive, professional relationships with camper and staff.
• Complete detailed and thoughtful Camper Highlights forms.
• Prioritize the needs of campers.
• Provide an environment where every camper/ Girl Scout feels welcome, safe, and included.
• Supervise all assigned aspects of the campers’ day including morning wake-up, cabin clean-up, unit program, mealtimes, rest hour, evening activities, getting ready for bed, and other after-lights out duties.
• Help staff and campers to respect others, demonstrate how to appreciate differences and similarities so that campers get the most out of their stay at camp.

Health & Safety

• Ensure that unit activities are carried out in accordance with safety standards.
• Apply behavioral management techniques alongside fellow counselors and leaders.
• Be familiar with the council emergency action plan and procedures.
• Maintain the cleanliness of all facilities; including but not limited to camp staff living areas, bathrooms, restocking of necessary supplies, garbage/recycling, and campfire areas.
• Ensure camper health needs are met. This includes and is not limited to knowledge of medications schedules, allergies, dietary restrictions, monitoring campers’ water intake, and use of sunscreen.

Systems & Communication

• Maintain strict confidentiality and professionalism when handling sensitive information regarding campers or staff members.
• Support staff and campers in established emergency procedures such as fire drills, evacuations, etc. and understand your role in crisis management.
• Adhere to established routines, schedules, and procedures for camp operation.
• Share camper and staff photos/stories regularly with administration for camp social media purposes.

Positive Relationships

• Maintain clear and positive verbal communication with all campers, co-workers, and parent/guardians.
• Honor diversity by ensuring that all materials, activities, and programs are reflective of the interests, values, and needs of all campers.
• Address conflicts between staff and/or campers.
• Support and promote campers and fellow staff to take risks and seek challenges.

Eligibility Qualifications:

• Minimum 18 years of age.
• First Aid and CPR certification (provided at Staff Training).
• Cognitive and communicative ability to manage multiple complex tasks and follow instruction.
• Ability to identify and respond to needs of campers, self, and other staff members.

• 6-day work week with weekends required. 24-Hour break period.
• This position is designated as a safety sensitive position.