Summer Camp Counselor

Down Home Ranch, Inc. 2026 Summer Camp Counselor Elgin, TX
· Full time Company website Apply for 2026 Summer Camp Counselor

The Camp Counselor is a short-term, seasonal role responsible for directly supporting and supervising campers to ensure a safe, engaging, and meaningful camp experience. Counselors live on-site for the duration of the camp contract and work as part of a team to assist campers with daily activities, personal care needs, recreation, meals, and camp events. This position is temporary and limited to the camp season only and is not eligible for traditional full-time employee benefits.

Counselors serve as role models while fostering inclusion, independence, and fun for campers, including those with developmental or intellectual disabilities.

About Down Home Ranch Located on 410 acres of beautiful Texas countryside in Elgin, Down Home Ranch is more than just a workplace—it’s a thriving community. Founded in 1989, we are a working farm and residential ranch dedicated to empowering the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).Through our social, educational, residential, and vocational programs, we provide our "Ranchers" with opportunities to live, work, and grow with purpose.

Whether it’s through our award‑winning greenhouses, animal husbandry, or our famous summer camps, we are committed to building a world where everyone belongs without exception.

What Makes Us Special?

Working at the Ranch isn't your typical 9-to-5. When you join our team, you aren't just an employee; you are a partner in our mission.

• A "Side-by-Side" Philosophy:
  We don’t lead from the front; we lead from beside. Whether we’re planting flowers, or sharing a meal, we work as equals with our Ranchers to foster independence and mutual respect.
• The "Ranch Life" Perks:
  Our staff enjoys a work environment surrounded by nature. From 400+ acres of hiking trails and fishing ponds to an on-site gym and pool, the "office" view includes mini-ponies, longhorns, and wide-open Texas skies.
• Purpose-Driven Growth:
  We believe in "doing with, not for." You’ll see the direct impact of your work every day as you help individuals gain confidence, learn new trades, and build lifelong friendships.
• A Culture of Belonging:
  We pride ourselves on being a place where you are valued for who you are. Our team is known for its high "happiness and purpose" ratings because we prioritize a supportive, joyful, and inclusive atmosphere.

Position Summary:

Camp Counselors directly serve and support campers so they may engage successfully in the campprogram. Counselors work with a co‑counselor to serve up to ten campers each session. Counselors will assist their campers as needed with aspects of camp life to include cabin time, daily living skills, activities, camp events, med passes and meals.

Essential Job Functions:

• Assist in the direction, supervision and organization of campers throughout camp in order to meet the intended camper outcomes
• Ensure appropriate ratios are kept at all times
• Provide daily care of each camper within your supervision including activities of daily living (ADL) such as assistance with showering, dressing, toileting, brushing teeth, meals and other ADL’s as needed by camper.
• Maintain high standards of health and safety for all campers
• Be a role model to campers and staff in your attitude and behavior
• Lead by Example in all camp programs including; activities, events, spirit challenges, campsongs, traditions and the culture of camp, helping to maintain a positive and memorable camp experience for campers

Requirements:

• Must be at least 18 years old
• High school diploma or equivalent with two-three years college preferred
• Complete a background check, drug test and TB test
• Abstain from tobacco, alcohol…