Summer Camp Lead Counselor

Looking for a summer job that makes a difference? Join the Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois 2025 camp staff today! Our Camp Torqua day and overnight camp is where energetic and passionate staff come together to provide girls with a safe and positive learning environment.

The Camp Counselor will play a vital role in supporting the camp unit and its programs, embodying the goals of the Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois. In addition to creating an unforgettable summer experience for campers, counselors will gain valuable certifications and professional skills to support their personal and career growth.

Work Commitment Dates:

June 1-6

June 8-12

June 15-20

June 23-25*

June 30- July 2*

July 6-10

July 13-18

*(optional weeks)

Camp Staff Benefits:

· Certifications in CPR, First Aid, and Youth Mental Health First Aid

· Illinois Mandated Reporter Training

· Completion Bonus (You must attend all assigned weeks without absences)

The Camp Counselor Unit Lead will direct the operations of the overnight camp unit and its programs to reflect the goals of the Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois. The Unit Lead must be able to supervise Camp Counselors; observe camper behavior; identify and respond to hazards; plan and conduct program activities; assist campers in emergencies (fire, intruder, severe weather, illness, or injury); teach and promote respect for others, valuing understanding differences and similarities of campers and staff; and possess the strength and endurance required to maintain constant supervision of staff and campers.

Camp Unit Leads Will:

• Receive certifications in CPR, First Aid, Youth Mental Health First Aid, and Illinois Mandated Reporter Training, equipping them with advanced skills to ensure safety and respond effectively to emergencies

• Build exceptional leadership, conflict resolution, and team management skills, preparing them to supervise staff and foster a positive camp culture

• Gain hands-on experience in administrative tasks, including record-keeping, staff evaluations, and program coordination, laying a foundation for future leadership roles

• Develop expertise in program facilitation and girl-led planning, emphasizing creativity and adaptability in delivering meaningful camp experiences

• Strengthen problem-solving and decision-making abilities by managing day-to-day unit operations and resolving challenges within a dynamic, fast-paced environment

ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Guide activities and experiences in the unit through girl planning, the session theme, and the Girl Scout program emphases

• Participate in training with the Program Engagement staff regarding activities that will be included in the camp session

• Serve as a constant, visible, and available source for all unit staff

• Ensure the physical and emotional health and safety of all campers

• Ensure the girl/adult supervisory ratios are maintained at all times

• Inform the Healthcare Manager and Program Engagement Manager - Outdoors of the health status of campers and staff. Sees that campers receive necessary health care from the Healthcare Manager, including any scheduled medications

• Serve as a liaison between administrative staff and camp counselors

• Assist in the supervision and evaluation of camp counselors

• Keep required records and make reports as requested by the Program Engagement Manager-Outdoors

• Keep camp supervisors informed of day-to-day unit successes and concerns

• Practice conflict resolution skills within the unit

• Informs the Program Engagement Manager-Outdoors of any camper or staff problems

• Help to ensure high morale of unit staff

• Conduct daily checks of the unit for safety, cleanliness, and good repair

• Work with unit staff to schedule and implement unit activities

• Assist with camper check-in and check-out procedures

• Oversee flag ceremonies and meals, make announcements, teach and reinforce camp procedures, and ensure that kapers are completed to maintain health and safety standards

• Meet with Program Engagement Manager - Outdoors as necessary

QUALIFICATIONS

• Be at least 18 years of age

• Previous experience working with younger girls, preferably in a camp or outdoor setting

• Willingness to reside at camp, in a cabin with other staff near campers, during the camp session

• Health physical signed by a medical professional within the past 12 months

• Excellent time management, organization, communication, and leadership skills

• Ability to supervise staff and perform administrative duties

• Ability to accept guidance and supervision

• Ability to assess situations and handle emergencies

• Current driver’s license

• Ability to become First Aid and CPR certified

• Willingness to complete Illinois Mandated Reporter training

• Willingness to complete Youth Mental Health First Aid training

• Ability to work with campers and staff members of diverse backgrounds

• Understanding and acceptance of the Girl Scout promise, law, beliefs, and principles

• Willingness to become a member of Girl Scouts of the USA and consent to a criminal background check

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Willingness to perform tasks that involve the ability to exert light physical effort which may include some lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling objects and materials of moderate weight (20-25 pounds)

• Daily exposure to seasonal weather conditions

• Walking, hiking, and traveling around campgrounds

Job Type: Temporary

Pay: $500.00 per week

Schedule:

• Extended hours
• Monday to Friday
• Overnight shift
• Weekends as needed

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Experience:

• outdoors: 1 year (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• First Aid Certification (Preferred)
• CPR Certification (Preferred)
• Driver's License (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $500