Camp Counselor

The Camp Counselor position is for those applicants who are 17 years or older and preferably have completed one year of college or equivalent life experience (recreation, education, childcare, or a closely related field preferred). Camp Counselors play an active role in organizing, planning, and implementing all aspects of summer day camp programs for youth of various ages. Camps are held in City of Gahanna parks and include structured group activities like sports & games, outdoor education, arts & creativity, special presentations, off‑site trips including swimming pool visits, as well as plenty of free time for campers to independently select activities that they most like to do.

Camp Counselors typically work up to 5 days/40 hours per week, but part‑time schedules can be arranged. Normal working hours are between 7:15 a.m. and 5:45 p.m., Monday – Friday. Occasional evening or weekend work may be available/requested. Additional pre‑summer trainings and in‑service staff meetings throughout the summer are also required. Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early to allow time to complete all new hire paperwork and screening so that they may benefit from the opportunity to fully participate in pre‑camp staff training.

• Ensure the safety and well‑being of camp participants and fellow staff, adhering to all camp policies, procedures and applicable emergency protocols, as described in the staff manual.
• Act as a role model to camp participants, co‑workers, and camp parents in both attitude and appropriate behavior, remaining professional and respectful, as described in the staff manual.
• Maintain camper supervision and discipline, as necessary, in a manner that is appropriate and consistent with policies described in the staff manual.
• Abide by all mandatory reporting and communication policies, as described in the staff manual.
• Evaluate camp programs and provide constructive feedback to support staff and supervisors.

Regular, predictable, and punctual attendance is required. Any combination of education, training and experience as listed below which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job. A typical way to qualify is completion of one (1) year of college or equivalent life experience. A willingness to work under direct supervision. Minimum of 17 years of age.

• Licensure or Certification Requirements:
  First Aid/CPR/AED certification or willingness to obtain. Current and valid Ohio driver’s license with an acceptable driver’s abstract, to meet criteria for insurability established by the City of Gahanna.

• Participate in the development and implementation of program activities that align with the camp mission and desired outcomes.
• Demonstrate enthusiasm, while leading, assisting, and/or actively participating in all program areas, as assigned.
• Maintain exceptional standards of cleanliness, health, and safety in all camp operations, adhering to American Camp Association standards at all times.
• Be alert to equipment and facilities, to ensure utilization, proper care and maintenance is adhered to. Promptly report repairs needed to the camp management team and/or supervisor.
• Maintain appropriate level of formal/professional conduct, in an informal environment.
• Provide parents/guardians and public appropriate feedback and information, when addressing questions and concerns, with assistance from the Leadership Team or supervisor, as needed.

• Be available for camp staff trainings prior to the camp season and for in‑service trainings/meetings during the camp season; some of these may occur outside of regularly scheduled program hours.
• Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge of:

• Basic recreation principles
• Youth development

Skill in:

• Conflict resolution
• Team building
• Engagement techniques
• Behavior management

Ability to: (Mental and Physical Abilities)

• Work independently, while also being able to lead and supervise others.
• Assess appropriateness of participant behavior and respond accordingly, using positive behavior management…