Camp Program Counselor

Working at Girl Scout Summer Camp

Girl Scout camp is where many campers find their strengths and challenge themselves as they navigate activities on the water, at the campsite, and along the trail. Girl Scouts River Valleys’ camp sessions allow campers to develop a strong sense of self and positive values, build healthy relationships, seek challenges, and have fun while making memories of a lifetime!

Your passion can make a difference in the lives of girls! Working at our camps takes a special kind of person! You’ll be a great fit if you…

• Are friendly and calm, especially under pressure
• Are a team player
• Love working outdoors
• Are passionate about delivering an inclusive camp experience for all campers
• Are good at switching gears and wearing many different hats
• Are willing to learn new things
• Are willing to disconnect from technology for the majority of the day
• Can commit to a schedule and work the entire summer

• For staff living on‑site, pay starts at $650 per week (based on a 6‑day work week).
• For those commuting, the starting pay rate is $17.50 per hour.
• Experience and certifications obtained prior to hire may qualify candidates for a higher starting rate.

Counselors orient and welcome all campers to camp and help each girl plan her schedule. You ensure campers get up each morning, eat at each meal, have fun, participate in a variety of activities, and stay healthy, safe, and happy while  must have the ability to learn new skills in many different areas and have a passion to work directly with campers.

Essential job functions of the Counselor position include:

• Direct, supervise and organize campers in small groups, in their living unit and throughout the day to foster an inclusive, safe, and fun experience.
• Participate in the development and implementation of program activities for campers.
• Be a role model to campers and staff in your attitude and behavior.
• Create an inclusive environment that ensures all campers feel supported and affirmed as they experience camp with us.
• Follow and uphold all safety and security rules and procedures.
• Set a good example to campers and others in regard to general camp procedures and practices including sanitation, schedule, and sportsmanship.
• Model the values of the Girl Scout Mission, Promise, Law and Program Goals at all times.

• All staff members must be at least 18 years of age or have graduated from high school by the start of the camp season.
• Overnight and Riding Counselors:
  Must be willing to live on‑site in GSRV assigned housing and comply with conditions of GSRV housing agreement. This includes the ability to live in the rustic, communal setting of summer camp with campers and staff of all ages.
  * This requirement does not apply to Day Camp Counselors.
• Must be First Aid/CPR certified or be able to obtain this certification (GSRV can assist with the certification process).
• Ability to interact well with all age levels and understand the development needs of youth.
• Demonstrate knowledge and skill in designated camp program areas (training available).
• Ability to conduct all activities with a high degree of cultural competency.

• Sufficient eye‑to‑hand coordination to successfully operate tools and equipment as necessary and respond appropriately to situations where campers require assistance or first aid.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time.
• Physical ability to frequently stop, climb, bend, kneel, crouch, reach overhead, grasp, push, pull, lift, and move objects up to 50 pounds at shoulder height, and occasionally lift more than 50 pounds.
• See and read printed materials, with or without visual aids; distinguish colors; read and understand rules and policies, labels, and instructions.
• Verbal communication including the ability to speak and hear at normal room levels.

In addition to completing the application, you are required to provide three references (cannot be related to you) who can judge your qualifications for this position. If you have previous experience as a camp staff member at least one reference should be from a camp director or administrator. Use the link below to automatically send the form to the references you’ve selected.

* Note this process is not required if you have previously worked for a GSRV camp.

Girl Scouts River Valleys is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, access, and racial justice, and is working to boldly lead as an anti‑racist organization that uplifts and empowers every Girl Scout to know their worth and lead in their world. This means leading not just with words, but with actions.