Summer Camp Counselor

Animal Welfare League of Alexandria; Alexandria (VA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Summer Camp Counselor to support their engaging summer program for young animal lovers. This role involves assisting in the implementation of educational activities and ensuring the safety and well-being of campers aged 6-13. Ideal candidates will have experience working with children, strong customer service skills, and a commitment to animal welfare. Join a dynamic team dedicated to fostering a love for animals while providing a fun and educational environment for the next generation. This is a unique opportunity to make a difference in the lives of children and animals alike.

Qualifications

• 1+ years of experience working with children or youth groups.
• Strong customer service skills and professionalism are essential.

Responsibilities

• Assist in implementing summer camp programs for children aged 6-13.
• Lead humane education activities and supervise campers.

Skills

Experience working with children

Multitasking

Customer service skills

Fluency in English

Commitment to animal welfare

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience

Tools

Computers

Cleaning tools

Job description

The Summer Camp Counselor supports the management of the AWLA’s summer camp program for Alexandria’s young animal lovers. This contract position runs from June 1, 2025, to August 31, 2025, with an unpaid break from June 30 to July 4, 2025.

Responsibilities

1. Assist the Humane Educator in implementing ten week-long summer camp programs for children aged 6-13.
2. Lead humane education activities and recreational opportunities, ensuring safety and engagement.
3. Supervise campers, ensuring their safety and well-being.
4. Maintain camp schedules and facilitate lesson plans involving safe animal interactions.
5. Organize and lead group activities, ensure cleanliness, mediate disputes, and maintain accurate records.
6. Follow all emergency and safety procedures related to the camp.

Position Requirements

Required:

• At least 1 year of experience working with children, volunteers, or youth groups.
• Ability to multitask in a busy environment.
• Understanding and comfort with humane animal care and handling.
• Strong customer service skills and professionalism.
• Fluency in English (written and spoken).
• Commitment to the mission of the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria.

Preferred:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• Experience in an animal shelter or similar environment.
• Knowledge of positive reinforcement and force-free animal training techniques.
• Proficiency in Spanish.

Working Conditions

Work may be indoors in noisy, climate-controlled environments or outdoors at the shelter or on-location. Equipment used includes computers, printers, phones, and cleaning tools. The candidate must pass a background check and be available for the entire camp season.

Physical and Mental Demands

Regular exposure to animals, chemicals, and allergens; ability to lift up to 50 pounds; frequent bending and walking; visual acuity; self-motivation; patience; and effective communication skills are required.

The position requires professional and courteous interactions with all stakeholders and adherence to AWLA policies. This description is not exhaustive, and additional duties may be assigned by supervisors.

The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria is an equal opportunity employer, providing a workplace free of discrimination based on race, gender, age, disability, and other protected categories.