Special Camp Aide - Recreation Services- Fall/ Winter 2026

City of Stamford; Stamford (CT); On-site; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Stamford is seeking a Special Camp Aide to support campers with special needs in an outdoor camp setting. You will work closely with camp leadership and staff to promote inclusion, independence, social engagement, and positive behaviors.

The role requires 21+ years old, PARA Pro or 60 college credits with relevant experience, and current First Aid/CPR. You will assist with mobility as needed and participate actively in camp activities to ensure safety and success.

Qualifications

• Minimum age 21 years preferred.
• Experience with children with special needs in camp, school, childcare, or recreation setting preferred.
• Ability to remain calm, patient, and flexible in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to assist campers physically as needed.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 or small-group support to campers during daily activities, transitions, and special events.
• Coordinate inclusion services and implement individualized support plans.
• Adapt and modify camp activities to ensure safe participation with peers.
• Encourage independence, confidence, and self-advocacy with guidance and supervision.
• Support campers with emotional regulation, sensory processing needs, social skills, and behavior management.
• Collaborate with leadership to monitor progress and address concerns.
• Maintain clear communication with supervisors regarding camper needs, incidents, and progress.
• Assist with maintaining a safe environment and ensure compliance with camp policies.
• Provide basic first aid as needed and respond appropriately to emergencies.
• Serve as a positive role model for campers and staff.

Job description

The Special Camp Aide provides direct support to campers with special needs to ensure full participation in camp programs and activities. Working collaboratively with camp leadership and counseling staff, this position delivers one-on-one or small-group assistance to promote inclusion, independence, social engagement, and positive behavioral outcomes. The Special Camp Aide helps create a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment that enables all campers to succeed.

• Provide 1:1 or small-group support to campers requiring additional assistance during daily activities, transitions, and special events.
• Coordinate inclusion services and implement individualized support plans for campers with special needs.
• Adapt and modify camp activities to ensure safe and meaningful participation alongside peers.
• Encourage independence, confidence, and self-advocacy while offering appropriate guidance and supervision.
• Support campers with emotional regulation, sensory processing needs, social skill development, and behavior management strategies.
• Collaborate with camp leadership to monitor camper progress and address concerns.
• Maintain clear communication with supervisors regarding camper needs, incidents, and progress.
• Assist with maintaining a safe environment and ensure compliance with camp policies and procedures.
• Provide basic first aid as needed and respond appropriately to emergencies.
• Serve as a positive role model for campers and staff.

• Minimum age of 21 years preferred.
• Experience working with children with special needs in a camp, school, childcare, or recreation setting preferred.
• Must possess the PARA Pro Assessment or have at least 60 college credits with experience with special needs children.
• Ability to remain calm, patient, and flexible in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to actively participate in camp activities and assist campers physically as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Degree or coursework in special education, psychology, social work, human services, or a related field.
• Experience in camp, school, or youth program leadership.
• Current First Aid and CPR certification.

Working Conditions

Work is performed primarily outdoors and in recreational settings. The position requires frequent standing, walking, bending, lifting, and active participation in physical activities. The Special Camp Aide must be able to assist campers with mobility needs and respond quickly in emergency situations.