Summer Program Counselor

Position Overview

Open Window School is a K-8 independent school on Cougar Mountain, centrally located between Bellevue, Issaquah, and Newcastle. For 5 weeks during the summer, Open Window runs an exciting summer program for students entering Kindergarten through 7th grade within the local community.

The Summer Camp Lead Counselor is responsible for overseeing all age groups within the summer camp. This role involves coordinating activities, providing leadership to junior camp counselors, and ensuring the safety and well-being of campers. The Lead Counselor plays a critical role in the organization, development, and delivery of a comprehensive summer day camp program.

Major Areas of Responsibility/Specific Duties:

• Coordinate setup, maintenance, and staffing of program areas
• Assist in training staff on equipment use and lesson planning
• Develop, lead, and assess camp programs, including special activities
• Manage and track required program equipment
• Ensure cleanliness and organization of the campsite
• Support Camp Counselors as an Age Group Lead, coordinating small group activities
• Provide feedback on camper experiences and report concerns to leadership
• Assist with morning and afternoon drop-offs and dismissals as needed
• Implement camp emergency procedures and safety guidelines
• Mentor Junior Counselors and provide feedback on leadership skills
• Respond promptly to emergency situations and follow protocols
• Participate in staff training, meetings, and provide work direction when needed
• Other duties as needed and assigned.

Essential Functions:

• Coordinate setup, maintenance, and staffing of program areas
• Assist in training staff on equipment use and lesson planning
• Develop, lead, and assess camp programs, including special activities
• Manage and track required program equipment
• Ensure cleanliness and organization of the campsite
• Support Camp Counselors as an Age Group Lead, coordinating small group activities
• Provide feedback on camper experiences and report concerns to leadership
• Assist with morning and afternoon drop-offs and dismissals as needed
• Implement camp emergency procedures and safety guidelines
• Mentor Junior Counselors and provide feedback on leadership skills
• Respond promptly to emergency situations and follow protocols
• Participate in staff training, meetings, and provide work direction when needed

Work Conditions:

• Ability to engage in physical camp activities, including games and team-building exercises
• Ability to manage and provide physical support to children during activities
• Comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions
• Physical stamina for extended periods of standing, walking, reaching, and occasional lifting

Qualities & Qualifications:

The following skills, knowledge, and abilities may enhance an applicants candidacy.

• Must be at least 18 years old
• CPR/First Aid Certified preferred.
• Experience working with K-8 students.
• Experience with after-school or summer programs.
• Interest in youth development and engaging with youth.
• Strong leadership, behavior management, and teamwork skills.
• Maintain cordial, flexible, and professional relationships with colleagues, students and parents.
• Engage with others using constructive communication and interpersonal skills.
• Pay attention to detail and time management.
• Employ a positive, collaborative, and problem-solving attitude.
• Provide a welcoming environment for students and serve as an enthusiastic role model for them in everything you do at camp.
• Communicate, motivate, engage, and interact with students in a supportive and inclusive manner during camp and activity time.

Position Details:

Manager: Summer Auxiliary Programs Manager

Compensation: $25 per hour

Position Classification: Seasonal; June 23-August 1

Hours: 7:30-4:00; 8:30-5:00; or 9:30-6:00 exact schedule will be determined between employee and manager

Training: Hired counselors are required to attend the in-person training session at Open Window School - June 23-27.