Head Counselor

Jewishcamp; Massachusetts; On-site; USD 31,850 - 45,500; Full time

Job summary

A summer camp in Massachusetts is seeking a hands-on leader to enhance the camp experience for both campers and staff. This position encompasses mentorship, supervision, and consistent support for counselors while fostering a collaborative summer atmosphere. Candidates should possess relevant educational qualifications and demonstrate strong communication and leadership abilities. The role is pivotal in addressing campers' needs and ensuring effective operation throughout the summer, with the opportunity for professional growth and community building.

Qualifications

• Prior camp experience, ideally in a supervisory or leadership role.
• Proven ability to mentor, coach, and support young staff.
• Strong communication skills and ability to lead groups.

Responsibilities

• Shape daily experiences of campers and staff.
• Provide hands-on supervision and mentorship to bunk counselors.
• Communicate with parents and families regarding camper progress.

Skills

Mentoring

Leadership

Communication

Organizational skills

Adaptability

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field

Master’s degree in education or related area

Job description

In this leadership role, you’ll help shape the daily experience of campers and staff while setting the tone for a positive, collaborative summer. Before camp begins, you’ll connect with your team, build relationships, and help lead training that prepares counselors for success.

Throughout the summer, you’ll provide hands-on supervision, mentorship, and feedback to bunk counselors, supporting their growth and helping them navigate challenges as they arise. You’ll be a consistent presence in bunks and around camp—ensuring campers feel supported, included, and engaged while proactively addressing social, emotional, and behavioral needs.

You’ll guide counselors in using positive behavior support strategies and step in when more complex situations require leadership, always responding with fairness, consistency, and care. You’ll partner with parents and families through clear, thoughtful communication—sharing updates, addressing concerns, and celebrating camper milestones.

You’ll model respect and inclusion, foster healthy relationships, and embrace teachable moments that help campers and staff grow. You’ll contribute to staff development through ongoing feedback and evaluations, collaborate with camp leadership on daily programming and special events, and help keep camp running smoothly by supporting bunk routines, evening programs, and overall camp operations. As a trusted communicator, you’ll keep the Director informed and help resolve issues with professionalism and discretion.

This is a hands-on leadership opportunity where your presence, mentorship, and judgment directly shape the camp experience. You’ll build skills in coaching, team leadership, behavior support, and youth development, while helping create a summer rooted in growth, connection, and community, alongside a passionate and collaborative leadership team.

Compensation

$700-1000/week

Requirements

Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Additional graduate-level coursework or a Master’s degree in education, recreation, or a related area is welcomed but not required.Applicants should have prior camp experience, ideally in a supervisory or leadership role, and demonstrate a proven ability to mentor, coach, and support young staff. Experience building meaningful relationships with children, teens, and young adults ages 7–22 is essential.Strong communication skills are required, including the ability to lead groups and provide individualized guidance. Successful candidates will be organized, adaptable, and reflective, able to navigate the pace and unpredictability of camp life with professionalism and care.This role calls for a collaborative team player who thrives in a mission-driven, community-oriented environment. Coaching experience is a plus and aligns well with the leadership and mentorship responsibilities of the position.

How to Apply

To apply, email a cover letter and resume to our Director Ben at [e-mail]