Group Leader/Instructor, Explorer Camp - Youth Recreation (4128U), Recreation & Wellbeing - #83475

University of California, Berkeley; Berkeley (CA); On-site; USD 28,240 - 29,274; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious educational institution in Berkeley is seeking Group Leaders/Instructors for the Explorer Camp to foster a positive environment for youth participants. Responsibilities include supervising campers, developing lesson plans, and cultivating individual relationships to enhance growth. Candidates should have a strong background in youth recreation and a high school diploma. This role offers competitive hourly pay ranging from $20.50 to $21.25 and will involve approximately 32-40 hours during the summer months.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of youth learning styles and classroom management.
• Ability to work effectively across organizational levels.
• Client service minded with an entrepreneurial spirit.

Responsibilities

• Ensure supervision and safety of campers during activities.
• Build relationships with campers to foster growth.
• Develop and submit detailed lesson plans for activities.

Skills

Knowledge of Youth Recreation Programs

Service orientation

Judgment and decision-making skills

Effective communication skills

Proficiency in basic computer applications

Education

High school diploma

Job description

Group Leader/Instructor, Explorer Camp (4128U), Recreation & Wellbeing - #83475

University of California, Berkeley

About Berkeley

At the University of California, Berkeley, we are dedicated to fostering a community where everyone feels welcome and can thrive. Our culture of openness, freedom and belonging make it a special place for students, faculty and staff. As a world‑leading institution, Berkeley is known for its academic and research excellence, public mission, diverse student body, and commitment to equity and social justice.

Departmental Overview

The Department of Recreation & Wellbeing provides competitive and recreational opportunities for students, faculty, staff and campus affiliated community members. In addition to the 30 sports clubs, the department offers a wide range of recreational activities and state‑of‑the‑art equipment.

Position Summary

Camp Counselors, also known as Group Leaders and Instructors in our youth programs and summer camps, are dedicated to fostering a positive and engaging experience for youth participants. They deliver high‑quality instruction, develop age‑appropriate lesson plans, and provide constructive feedback to encourage growth and skill development. They also maintain safe, clean, and well‑organized recreational spaces and may take on additional program‑related responsibilities as needed.

Application Review Date

The First Review Date for this job is: 01/19/2026. This is an ongoing hiring process with multiple positions available. Applications will be regularly assessed, and hiring will occur at various points throughout the year. The job listing will remain open for as long as applications are accepted.

Responsibilities

• Ensure overall supervision and safety of campers, manage risks, and facilitate engaging downtime activities.
• Build positive, age‑appropriate relationships with campers, addressing individual needs to foster growth and well‑being.
• Encourage campers to step outside their comfort zones, take healthy risks, and enhance their knowledge and skills.
• Maintain accurate attendance records and manage transition periods between activities.
• Safely guide campers between locations and supervise them during water/bathroom breaks.
• Assist campers with personal belongings, lost and found items, sunscreen application, hydration, and waste disposal.
• Support campers in problem‑solving and conflict resolution, stepping in to guide only when necessary.
• Supervise and mentor Junior Counselors, Counselors‑in‑Training, and Campers in Leadership Training (CILTs).
• Inspire and motivate campers and staff to actively participate with enthusiasm and teamwork.

• Teach age‑appropriate skills and activities in a structured, progressive sequence.
• Develop and submit detailed lesson plans for each activity session.
• Lead well‑organized, engaging classes that maximize camper participation.
• Provide specialized instruction in a variety of sports and activities (archery, arts and crafts, badminton, basketball, card games, chess, dance, drama, field games, flag football, frisbee, group games, golf, lacrosse, leadership, motor fitness, music, nature studies, rugby, skateboarding, soccer, softball, table tennis, track and field, volleyball, and yoga).
• Integrate camp values and life skills into lessons and activities in a developmentally appropriate manner.

• Ensure all equipment, materials, and supplies are well‑organized and properly maintained.
• Complete and submit all required paperwork accurately and on time.
• Complete and submit all incident and accident reports promptly.
• Conduct daily safety and cleanliness checks in activity areas.

• Assist with the check‑in and check‑out procedures for all campers.
• Foster group unity by promoting theme days and camp traditions.
• Support campers in making friends and enjoying the camp experience.
• Contribute ideas to improve camp operations.
• Assist with, lead, or actively participate in staff social events and meetings.
• Fill staffing needs and/or gaps at other Berkeley Youth Recreation summer camp programs as determined by supervisors.
• Establish a supportive, inclusive environment encouraging camper participation and engagement.

Required Qualifications

• Knowledge of Youth Recreation Programs, program planning/development, basic classroom management, and youth learning styles.
• Service orientation, judgment, decision‑making, critical thinking, and creative problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively across all organization levels, internally and externally.
• Client service minded with entrepreneurial spirit and creative thinking.
• Highly effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in basic computer applications.
• Knowledge of or quick‑learning ability for campus policies and procedures.
• High school diploma and/or equivalent experience/training.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certification to instruct in the applicable recreational sports program.
• Red Cross Infant/Child/Adult CPR certification.
• At least one year of experience leading recreational programs for youth.
• Some college or Associate Degree and/or Bachelor’s Degree and/or equivalent experience/training.

Salary & Benefits

For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University, please visit the University of California's Compensation & Benefits website. The budgeted hourly range is $20.50 - $21.25. This is an approximately 3‑month, variable‑hours, contract appointment, typically reaching 32 - 40 hours in the summer. This is a non‑exempt, biweekly‑paid position.

How To Apply

• To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter.

Other Information

• This is not a visa opportunity. This position does not include sponsorship of a new consular H‑1B visa petition.
• This recruitment has 28 openings.

Conviction History Background

This is a designated position requiring fingerprinting and a background check due to the nature of the job responsibilities. Berkeley does hire people with conviction histories and reviews information received in the context of the job responsibilities. The University reserves the right to make employment contingent upon successful completion of the background check.

Mandated Reporter

This position has been identified as a Mandated Reporter required to report the observed or suspected abuse or neglect of children, dependent adults, or elders to designated law enforcement or social service agencies. We reserve the right to make employment contingent upon completion of signed statements acknowledging the responsibilities of a Mandated Reporter.

Misconduct

SB 791 and AB 810 Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.
“Misconduct” means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant’s previous place of employment, including but not limited to violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the Employer. For reference, below are UC’s policies addressing some forms of misconduct:
UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
UC Anti-Discrimination Policy
Abusive Conduct in the Workplace

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.