Group Leader​/Instructor, Explorer Camp - Youth Recreation , Recreation & Wellbeing

Position Summary

Camp Counselors (Group Leaders/ Instructors) are responsible for delivering high‑quality instruction, maintaining a safe and inclusive environment, and supporting the overall camp experience for youth participants.

• Ensure overall supervision and safety of campers, managing risks and facilitating engaging downtime activities.
• Build positive, age‑appropriate relationships with campers, addressing individual needs to foster growth.
• Encourage campers to step outside their comfort zones and enhance their knowledge and skills.
• Maintain accurate attendance records and oversee transitions between activities.
• Safely guide campers between locations and supervise during water/bathroom breaks.
• Assist campers with personal belongings, lost and found, sunscreen, hydration, and waste disposal.
• Support campers in problem‑solving and conflict resolution, intervening only when necessary.
• Supervise and mentor Junior Counselors, Counselors‑in‑Training, and CILTs, providing constructive feedback.
• Inspire and motivate campers and staff to actively participate with enthusiasm and teamwork.

• Teach age‑appropriate skills in a structured, progressive sequence or assist in leading activities.
• Develop and submit detailed lesson plans for each activity session.
• Lead well‑organized, engaging classes that maximize camper participation.
• Provide specialized instruction in areas such as archery, arts & 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 & field, volleyball, and yoga.
• Actively engage campers throughout activities, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.
• Integrate camp values and life skills into lessons, ensuring developmentally appropriate delivery.

• Ensure all equipment, materials, and supplies are well‑organized and stored properly.
• Complete and submit all required paperwork, including training documentation, timesheets, lesson plans, and certifications.
• Submit incident and accident reports promptly to supervisors.
• Conduct daily safety and cleanliness checks in activity areas.

• Assist with check‑in and check‑out procedures.
• Promote theme days and camp traditions to foster group unity.
• Support campers in making friends and enjoying the camp experience.
• Contribute ideas to improve camp operations and share suggestions during staff meetings.
• Assist with, lead, or actively participate in staff social events and other programs assigned.
• Fill staffing needs or gaps in other Berkeley Youth Recreation summer camp programs.
• Cultivate a supportive, inclusive environment encouraging camper participation in all activities.

• Knowledge of youth recreation programs, program planning, basic classroom management, and youth learning styles.
• Service orientation, judgment, critical thinking, original ideas, and creative problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively across all organization levels.
• Client‑service minded, entrepreneurial spirit, and creative thinking.
• Highly effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in basic computer applications.
• Knowledge of, or ability to quickly learn, campus policies and procedures.
• High school diploma and/or equivalent experience/training.

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

Hourly range: $20.50 – $21.25. Position is non‑exempt, biweekly‑paid.

To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter.

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.

This position requires fingerprinting and a background check. Berkeley may hire individuals with conviction histories; review is conducted in context of responsibilities.

The position requires reporting observed or suspected abuse or neglect of children or dependent adults to designated authorities. Completion of required statements is mandatory.