Summer Camp Unit Counselor

The Unit Counselor is a primary caregiver for each camper. They are responsible for teaching, coordinating, and carrying out activities that promote personal growth and daily living skills.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Supervision:
• Assist in the direction, supervision, and organization of campers in their living unit, within activities, and throughout the camp to meet intended camper outcomes.
• Apply basic youth development principles in working with campers and unit aids through communication, relationship development, respect for diversity, involvement, and empowerment of youth.
• Ensure campers are properly supervised at all times.
• Be aware of and implement safety guidelines.
• Program Development and Implementation:
• Participate in the development and implementation of program activities for campers within the mission and outcomes.
• Responsible for leading and assisting with the teaching of activities.
• Provide and guide girls' choices for activities, meals, and downtime.
• Actively participate in all program areas as assigned.
• Provide for the progression of activities within the framework of individual and group interests and abilities.
• Assist in program areas such as waterfront, target sports, cooking, nature, all-camp activities, and arts and crafts as directed.
• Maintenance of High Standards of Health and Safety:
• Provide daily care of each camper within your supervision, including recognition of personal health needs and daily check-ins.
• Ensure campers travel to receive any scheduled medications as directed by the Camp Director.
• Be alert to campers' and staff's needs and assist them with personal and/or health problems, discussing with the Camp Director when appropriate.
• Be alert to equipment and facilities to ensure utilization, proper care, and maintenance, reporting repairs needed promptly to the Camp Director.
• Role Modeling:
• Follow and uphold all safety and security rules and procedures.
• Set a good example to campers and others regarding general camp procedures and practices, including building relationships, giving choices, flexibility, sanitation, schedule, and sportsmanship.

Other Job Duties

• Contribute to verbal and written evaluations and communication as requested.
• Participate enthusiastically in all camp activities, planning, and leading those as assigned.
• Participate and complete all summer camp training modules.
• Attend staff meetings and assist in the setup and closure of summer camp facilities and all program areas.

Relationships

• Build positive and supportive relationships with other staff, leaders, and girls that build trust and courage, confidence, and character to help the world be a better place.

Equipment Used

• Unit Counselors may be asked to use walkie-talkies, camera equipment, fire protection equipment, washers and dryers, dishwashers, and specialty program equipment (e.g., target sports and watercrafts).
• Some may be asked to drive camp vehicles or watercraft.

Competencies and Areas of Expertise May Include

• Understanding the developmental needs of youth.
• Ability to relate to youth and adults in a positive manner.
• Ability to interact with all age levels and developmental needs.
• Demonstrating knowledge and skills in program areas assigned.

Physical Demands

• Ability to communicate and work with groups of various ages and skill levels, providing necessary instruction to campers and staff.
• Ability to observe camper behavior, assess its appropriateness, enforce safety regulations, and apply behavior-management techniques.
• Ability to observe staff behavior, assess its appropriateness, enforce safety regulations, and apply management techniques.
• Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to environmental hazards.
• Physical ability to respond appropriately in emergency situations, assist campers as needed, and possess strength and endurance required to maintain constant supervision of campers.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Willingness to live in a camp setting, work irregular hours, and handle limited equipment and facilities, with daily exposure to the sun, heat, and animals such as bugs, snakes, bats, etc.

Direct Reports

• None.

Education and/or Experience

• Must be 18 years of age or have a high school diploma.
• Must obtain or have the willingness to obtain certification in First Aid/CPR/AED.
• Must submit a health history prior to the first day of work.
• Must pass all federal, state, and GSCB required background checks.
• Prior camping and leadership experience is preferred.

The Following Requirements Apply to All Positions

• Become a registered member of the Girl Scouts of the United States of America.
• Have working knowledge of the Girl Scout philosophy and program, and be committed to the Girl Scout mission.
• Make camper and coworker safety a paramount focus, following all summer camp procedures, Girl Scout Safety Activity Check Points, and ACA standards.
• Cope with stressors and demands associated with the job and/or work environment to maintain acceptable performance levels.
• Adapt to a flexible work environment, including working additional hours, handling multiple tasks, and adapting to new assignments and processes.
• Possess a valid Driver's License and have regular access to a reliable vehicle.

Exposures and Environmental Conditions

• Live on-site at Camp Todd in Denton, MD during training weeks and camp weeks.
• Work irregular or extended hours into evenings and weekends during four overnight camp weeks.
• Operate with daily exposure to various weather conditions and animals such as bugs, snakes, bats, raccoons, and other wilderness animals common to the area.
• Perform duties while sitting or standing for prolonged periods, walking at a brisk pace on uneven terrain, and climbing stairs.