Seasonal Camp Counselor

Description

POSITION SUMMARY:

This position requires a dedicated, motivated, and outgoing individual to help run Camp Ocean at OdySea Aquarium, a series of week-long summer camps for children in grades 1-8. As part of the Education team, Counselors will be expected to work cooperatively alongside other Counselors and other Aquarium team members to lead and assist Campers in daily Camp operation. Counselors will be expected to be able to manage a group of multiple Campers at a time. Camp Counselors will demonstrate elevated, interactive educational experiences that underscore the education and conservation mission of OdySea Aquarium.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Responsible for maintaining a safe, respectful, fun and educational learning environment for campers in grades 1-8.
• Support the Camp Ocean team with all classroom management and activities.
• Assist the Camp leadership team in designing, refining, implementing, evaluating, and assessing the effectiveness of overall camp curriculum, as well as daily activities.
• Facilitate daily camp schedule of activities including crafts, games, scientific activities and aquarium exploration.
• Escort Campers through all scheduled areas of building or campus, and maintain safety of Campers and animals throughout.
• Demonstrate adaptability and flexibility working with different ages, educational topics, and locations.
• Observe and manage Camper behavior, assess its appropriateness, and ensure appropriate safety.
• Maintain compliance with all Arizona Boardwalk and OdySea Aquarium Standard Operating Procedures, safety regulations, and required emergency trainings.
• Maintain and organize classroom and supplies.
• Demonstrate appropriate classroom management skills and effective communication with Campers and other Counselors.
• Be a positive representation of OdySea Aquarium through positive guest interactions and experiences daily.
• Perform all other duties as assigned by Director.

Requirements

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE: 

• Minimum 1 year working in an educational capacity in a camp, day care facility, classroom, or related industry.
• Excellent public speaking and guest engagement skills, particularly with children.
• Ability to communicate and work well with others in a fast-paced environment and demonstrate flexibility.
• Participate in a cooperative working environment that promotes a culture of teamwork, positivity, inclusion, and growth.
• Basic understanding of formal or informal educational interpreting.  Experience in teaching is valued.  
• Ability to lead groups of campers in a crowded, public environment as well as facilitate activities in a classroom setting.
• Meet all required safety training, such as CPR, First Aid/BLS, AED, and Inclusion trainings, etc.  Training will be provided onsite for those not previously certified.

PHYSICAL AND MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be able to lift or move up to 50 pounds
• Must be comfortable around animals and their habitats, including open water exhibits.
• Ability to use hands to manipulate, handle, or feel, and reach with hands and arms.
• Ability to stand for long periods of time, as well as walk.
• Ability to balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, climb stairs, or crawl.
• Required to frequently talk and hear.
• No impairment of sight, smell, hearing, touch, balance and agility of movement which might interfere with ability to work.
• Specific vision requirements for this job include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
• Must be able to take directional cues directly or indirectly.
• Ability to work in an environment that may be loud at times.
• Ability to work in all weather conditions, including occasional extreme hot or cold, and wet and/or humid conditions.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of job

Must exemplify core fundamentals of the Employee Promise, which states:  

• I am empowered to take ownership of any opportunity to exceed expectations.  
• I anticipate guest needs and pay attention to the details. 
• I treat all internal and external customers with respect.  
• I am on stage! (Smile)  
• I have an attitude of gratitude.  
• I get it right the first time. 
• I display actions that are moral and ethical. 
• I always provide alternative solutions.  
• I am committed to learning every aspect of our product and services.  
• I use the 10/5 rule; at 10 feet I acknowledge my guest’s presence with a smile and at 5 feet I greet them with courteous words.                   
• I use name recognition at every opportunity.  
• I take personal responsibility for our surroundings.  
• I am accountable for my tools and resources.  
• I value the contribution of every team member. 

We believe a culture built on inclusion and diversity becomes the driving force for our success. We believe our team members bring varied thoughts and ideas from their personal life experiences and cultural backgrounds, making us innovative and forward-thinking.