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

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

Job summary

A prominent university in California seeks Camp Counselors dedicated to fostering engaging experiences for youth in summer programs. You will supervise campers, develop lesson plans, and lead various activities while ensuring a positive atmosphere. The role requires knowledge of youth recreation programs and effective communication skills. Hourly compensation ranges from $20.50 to $21.25. Candidates with a high school diploma and prior experience in youth programs are preferred.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of program planning and basic classroom management.
• Must be able to work effectively across all organization levels.
• Client service-minded and entrepreneurial spirit.

Responsibilities

• Ensure overall supervision and safety of campers.
• Develop and submit detailed lesson plans for activities.
• Teach age-appropriate skills to children ages 5-14.

Skills

Knowledge of Youth Recreation Programs

Service orientation

Effective verbal and written communication skills

Creative problem-solving

Education

High school diploma and/or equivalent experience/training

Tools

Basic computer applications

Job description

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 in our recreational programs and summer camps. They are responsible for delivering high‑quality instruction, developing age‑appropriate lesson plans tailored to their assigned activities, and providing consistent, constructive feedback to encourage growth and skill development.

Group Leaders and Instructors also contribute to maintaining safe, clean, and well‑organized recreational spaces, ensuring an inclusive and supportive environment. Additionally, they may take on other program‑related responsibilities as needed to enhance the overall experience and meet the needs of participants.

Responsibilities

General Supervision:

• Ensure the overall supervision and safety of campers, managing risks and facilitating engaging downtime activities.
• Build positive, age‑appropriate relationships with campers, identifying and 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 in a supportive environment.
• Maintain accurate attendance records, ensuring proper check‑ins and managing transition periods between activities.
• Safely guide campers between locations and supervise them during water/bathroom breaks, ensuring their well‑being at all times.
• Assist campers with personal belongings, lost and found items, sunscreen application, hydration, and waste disposal, promoting responsibility and independence.
• Support campers in problem‑solving and conflict resolution, stepping in to offer guidance only when necessary to empower their decision‑making.
• Supervise and mentor Junior Counselors, Counselors‑in‑Training, and Campers in Leadership Training (CILTs), providing constructive direction and feedback.
• Inspire and motivate campers, Junior Counselors, Counselors‑in‑Training, and CILTs to actively participate in all camp activities with enthusiasm and teamwork.

Program Instruction & Facilitation:

• Teach age‑appropriate skills and activities in a structured, progressive sequence, or assist in leading activities as directed by supervisors.
• Develop and submit detailed lesson plans for each activity session, collaborating with co‑counselors and Leadership Team members to design progressive lessons tailored to campers’ ages and skill levels.
• Lead well‑organized, engaging classes that maximize camper participation, offering a variety of creative and interactive activities.
• Provide specialized instruction to children (ages 5‑14) in one or more areas, including 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.
• Actively engage with campers throughout activities, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.
• Integrate camp values and life skills into lessons and activities, ensuring they are presented in a developmentally appropriate and meaningful way.

Administrative:

• Ensure all equipment, materials, and supplies are well‑organized, properly maintained, and stored in their designated locations.
• Complete and submit all required paperwork accurately and on time, including training documentation, timesheets, lesson plans, and certifications.
• Complete and submit all incident and accident reports to supervisors promptly, as required.
• Conduct daily safety and cleanliness checks in activity areas, addressing any issues or reporting them to a supervisor or team leader.

Miscellaneous:

• Assist with the check‑in and check‑out procedures for all campers.
• Foster group unity by promoting theme days and camp traditions, helping both campers and staff feel connected and engaged.
• Support campers in making friends and enjoying the camp experience, ensuring a positive and inclusive atmosphere.
• Contribute ideas to improve camp operations and share suggestions during weekly staff meetings.
• Assist with, lead, or actively participate in staff social events, staff meetings, and any other programs assigned by your supervisor.
• Fill staffing needs and/or gaps at any of the other Berkeley Youth Recreation summer camp programs as determined by the supervisors.
• Cultivate a supportive, inclusive environment that encourages camper participation and engagement in all activities.

Required Qualifications

• Knowledge of Youth Recreation Programs, program planning/development, program structures, basic classroom management, and youth learning styles.
• Service orientation, judgment and decision‑making, critical thinking, develop original ideas, creative problem‑solving skills in a varied and challenging environment.
• Must be able to work effectively, across all organization levels, internally and externally.
• Client service minded, entrepreneurial spirit and creative thinking.
• Must have highly effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Must be proficient in the use of basic computer applications.
• Knowledge of and/or can quickly learn campus policies and procedures.
• High school diploma and/or equivalent experience/training.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certification to instruct in the applicable recreational sports program experience/training.
• Red Cross Infant/Child/Adult CPR certification.
• At least one year (or 12 months) previous experience leading recreational programs for youth.
• Some college or Associate Degree and/or Bachelor's Degree and/or equivalent experience/training.

Salary & Benefits

The budgeted hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is $20.50 – $21.25. This is a non‑exempt, biweekly‑paid position.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter.

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.