Summer Camp Counselor

Maine-Niles Association of Special Recreation; Maine; On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

Join a dedicated team as a Camp Counselor for a rewarding summer experience! This part-time, seasonal role involves working with children and adults with disabilities, providing them with a safe and enjoyable camp environment. Responsibilities include supervising activities, assisting with personal care, and maintaining open communication with families. Ideal candidates will be enthusiastic, motivated, and ready to make a difference in the lives of participants. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable experience while fostering a supportive community for individuals with special needs. If you’re passionate about recreation and eager to contribute, this is the perfect summer job for you!

Qualifications

• Must be 16 years or older with knowledge of recreation programming.
• Must pass a criminal background check and be highly motivated.

Responsibilities

• Assist in organizing and implementing recreation programs for individuals with disabilities.
• Supervise and care for participants, ensuring a positive camp experience.

Skills

Recreation Programming Knowledge

Motivation and Enthusiasm

Behavior Management

Communication Skills

Education

High School Diploma or Equivalent

Job description

CAMP COUNSELOR

Accountability: Program Manager and Site Director

FLSA Status: Part-time, non-exempt. The Camp Counselor position is a seasonal position during the summer (June – August).

Pay range: $16.00 - $18.50/hr (Depending on qualifications)

General Responsibilities:

The Camp Counselor is responsible for assisting with the organization, implementation, and evaluation of recreation programs for children and adults with disabilities. The position is part-time and includes morning and afternoon hours. Camp runs during the summer for approximately 8 weeks, and times vary depending on the specific camp. Additional hours are required for orientations and may be required for camp preparation and clean-up. Work schedules may vary weekly in number of hours, depending on the needs of the camps. The Camp Counselor will supervise and care for participants, as well as assist in providing them with the best camp experience possible.

Qualifications:

Must be 16 years of age or older. Must have a basic knowledge and understanding of recreation programming. Must be highly motivated and enthusiastic in order to provide quality experiences for our participants. Must pass a criminal background check by the state of Illinois. Transportation to and from M-NASR programs is the responsibility of the part-time staff.

Essential Functions:

1. Supervision of individuals with disabilities, including implementing behavior management plans and if certified, Handle with Care.
2. Participant supervision may include lifting and transferring, feeding, and other personal care (i.e. restroom assistance, changing clothing, etc.).
3. Actively and enthusiastically participate in play, water activities (if assigned), and various summer camp activities.
4. Assist with self-help and life-skills for the participants, when necessary.
5. Provide support to the Program Manager and the Site Director for camp preparation and clean-up.
6. Maintain open communication with camp families to discuss camper’s progress toward goals, activities of the day, and behaviors.
7. Maintain open communication with the Program Manager, Site Director, and other staff with information concerning camp programming, and/or participants.
8. Gather, load, transport and set up equipment.
9. Transfer and/or push individuals in wheelchairs.
10. Attend mandatory orientations.
11. Any other assigned duties needed to help support our Vision and fulfill our Mission.

Marginal Functions:

1. To maintain the program facilities in a neat and orderly manner.
2. Review and complete feedback forms, documentation, and other materials as needed, in a timely manner.
3. Maintain own schedule and submit electronic timesheets in a timely manner, as guided by the annual payroll schedule.

Safety Considerations:

1. Staff will comply with all M-NASR Safety Policies and Procedures and carry out all tasks in a safe manner.
2. Attendance at various safety in-service training will be required.

Psychological Considerations:

1. Must be able to respond to the needs of individuals with disabilities.
2. Must be able to work under stressful conditions.
3. Must be able to maintain a professional attitude with other staff, with participant family members, and with individuals in the community.

Physiological Considerations:

1. Must be able to lift and transfer participants or equipment safely.

Cognitive Considerations:

1. Must be able to demonstrate good safety awareness and judgment.
2. Must be able to follow directions, policies, and procedures.
3. Must be able to communicate effectively.

Environmental Considerations:

1. May be exposed to hazardous vegetation (i.e. poison ivy, etc.) during activities.
2. May be exposed to extreme weather conditions (i.e. rain, snow, heat, etc.).

Essential Physical Capabilities:

1. Prolonged periods of sitting, standing, bending, stooping, walking, and running.
2. Ability to closely supervise individuals with disabilities.
3. Lifting, pushing, pulling and carrying items weighing 20-50 pounds with mechanical assistance or team lift.