Senior Camp Counselor

The JCC Camp Shalom is dedicated to creating a summer of adventure, excitement, and learning in a positive and safe environment. We combine a Jewish-conscious program with multiculturalism and diversity to foster a feeling of community. We believe in providing the childhood experience that enriches creative potential through action and positive reinforcement.

Position Summary:

The Senior Camp Counselor is responsible for leading and delivering camp programming for children ages 5-9, ensuring a safe, engaging, and inclusive environment rooted in Jewish values. You will oversee the well-being of assigned campers both at the JCC and on outings.

Pay Rate: $18.25 - $26.50

Reports to:

Camp Shalom Director & Camp Assistant Director

General Responsibilities

Plan and support age-appropriate programming that reflects the goals and values of the Jewish Community Centre and Camp Shalom, with a focus on Jewish culture, values and fun.

Create a positive, welcoming, and safe environment for campers, staff, and families.

Work in alignment with the mission of the JCC Children’s & Youth Department and Camp Shalom.

Provide guidance and direction to Junior Counselors.

Be flexible and support camp operations as needed.

Support required camper-to-staff ratios and basic administrative tasks, including organizing medical forms.

Attend mandatory staff training.

Complete other duties as assigned by the Camp Director.

Responsibilities with Staff

Support the planning and delivery of daily camp programming.

Oversee activities of Junior Counselors on a day-to-day basis and help them learn.

Build and maintain respectful, collaborative relationships with all staff.

Help promote a positive, energetic, and supportive staff team environment.

Responsibilities with Children

Actively participate in all areas of camp, including daily routines, activities, field trips, camping trips, mifkad (morning circle), rad hayom (end-of-day circle), and pick-up.

Ensure campers are safe, supported, and meaningfully engaged in programming.

Guide children using positive behaviour strategies and age-appropriate problem-solving.

Encourage children to express themselves through respectful and supportive communication.

Support behaviour management and act as a positive authority figure when needed.

Plan and lead at least one activity per week with your group.

Responsibilities with Parents and Families

Communicate with families in a respectful, professional, and confidential manner.

Share daily program information and highlights.

Follow family routines where possible within the group setting.

Inform families of any concerns, incidents, disciplinary matters, or medical issues, and respond to questions as needed.

Support ongoing communication between families and the camp team.

End of Program Responsibilities

Assist with camp clean-up and inventory.

Clean and disinfect camp spaces, equipment, and supplies.

Help return and properly store all camp materials.

Qualifications

Experience working with children in a camp, school, childcare, or youth program setting.

Ability to plan and lead age-appropriate activities and programming.

Demonstrated ability to provide day-to-day guidance and oversight to Junior Counselors.

Strong interpersonal and communication skills with children, families, and colleagues.

Ability to model positive leadership, professionalism, and teamwork.

Experience using positive behaviour guidance strategies.

Ability to manage group routines, transitions, and daily program flow.

Commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment.

Ability to attend mandatory staff training and commit to the full camp period.