Summer Camp Adventure Lead Counselor

Haverford Township Parks and Recreation is seeking an energetic and adventurous Teen Adventure Leader to guide and mentor campers in an outdoor-focused summer camp designed for youth ages 12-14. This program is ideal for individuals passionate about outdoor recreation, adventure, and youth leadership, including those with scouting experience (Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, or similar), outdoor education, or nature-based programming.

As a Teen Adventure Leader, you will supervise, engage, and inspire campers while leading them through hands-on activities such as:
•Hiking & Nature Exploration
•Shelter & Fort Building
•Creek Swimming & Water Games
•Survival Skills & Outdoor Challenges
•Team-building Games & Problem-Solving Activities
•Friday Field Trips to Outdoor Destinations

This role requires strong leadership, enthusiasm, and a love for the outdoors. The Program Leader will collaborate with Program Assistants to ensure a safe, fun, and engaging experience for all campers. Additionally, you will oversee 2-3 camp counselors who will assist with daily activities and participant supervision, with support from the Program Coordinator as needed.
Location:
The program will be based at the CREC (9000 Parkview Drive, Haverford, PA 19041) with daily outdoor activities in surrounding parks and nature areas.

Qualifications:
• Must be at least 18 years old
• Passion for the outdoors, adventure, and youth leadership
• Strong ability to motivate, engage, and energize campers
• Experience in outdoor education, scouting programs, or adventure-based activities preferred
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Comfortable working in all types of weather and performing physical activities
• CPR & First Aid Certification preferred (or willingness to obtain)
• Must pass background clearances

Essential Responsibilities:
• Lead and supervise a group of 15-25 campers in daily activities
• Plan and implement engaging outdoor adventure activities
• Encourage teamwork, confidence, and skill-building through nature-based challenges
• Oversee and manage 2-3 camp counselors, ensuring smooth program operations
• Foster a positive and inclusive environment where all campers feel safe, supported, and inspired
• Communicate effectively with Program Assistants, parents, and the Program Coordinator
• Always ensure the safety and well-being of campers
• Respond appropriately to emergency situations and outdoor safety concerns
• Manage staff and participants on field trips, ensuring safety, organization, and engagement

The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

• Active, outdoor-based role requiring regular movement, hiking, and physical engagement 
• Exposure to varying weather conditions, including heat, rain, and natural elements
• Requires bending, kneeling, lifting, reaching, and carrying outdoor equipment

Antidiscrimination Policy: It is hereby declared to be the public policy of Haverford Township to foster the employment of all individuals in accordance with their fullest capacities regardless of their race, color, religious creed, ancestry, age, sex, national origin, handicap or disability, use of guide or support animals because of the blindness, deafness or physical handicap of the user or because the user is a handler or trainer of support or guide animals, or because of a person’s sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.