Special Needs Support Specialist (Camp Counselor)

The Town of East Hartford is seeking enthusiastic and compassionate individuals to join our team as Special Needs Camp Counselors this summer. In this role, you will design and lead fun, inclusive activities tailored to campers of various ages and abilities, fostering a supportive and welcoming environment for everyone. We are committed to creating a space where both staff and campers feel valued and empowered. Accommodations and support are available to ensure success for all, and we welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds to help us nurture an inclusive and vibrant community.

• Professional Development: Gain valuable skills and experience working with children and leading activities.
• Team Environment: Join a supportive and friendly team of counselors and camp staff.
• Networking Opportunities: Build connections with community members and other professionals in the Parks and Recreation Department.
• Skill Enhancement: Develop leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Recreational Perks: Enjoy access to camp facilities and other recreational amenities provided by the Town.
• Uniform Provided: Receive a camp counselor uniform and necessary equipment for your role.
• Community Impact: Make a difference in the community by creating a fun and memorable summer for campers.
• Competitive Hourly Wage: Earn a competitive wage while making a positive impact on the lives of campers.
• Professional Development: Gain valuable skills and experience working with children and leading activities.
• Team Environment: Join a supportive and friendly team of counselors and camp staff.
• Networking Opportunities: Build connections with community members and other professionals in the Parks and Recreation Department.
• Skill Enhancement: Develop leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Recreational Perks: Enjoy access to camp facilities and other recreational amenities provided by the Town.
• Uniform Provided: Receive a camp counselor uniform and necessary equipment for your role.
• Community Impact: Make a difference in the community by creating a fun and memorable summer for campers.
• Earn a competitive wage while making a positive impact on the lives of campers.
• Professional Development: Gain valuable skills and experience working with children and leading activities.
• Team Environment: Join a supportive and friendly team of counselors and camp staff.
• Networking Opportunities: Build connections with community members and other professionals in the Parks and Recreation Department.
• Skill Enhancement: Develop leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Recreational Perks: Enjoy access to camp facilities and other recreational amenities provided by the Town.
• Uniform Provided: Receive a camp counselor uniform and necessary equipment for your role.
• Community Impact: Make a difference in the community by creating a fun and memorable summer for campers.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement:

The Town of East Hartford proudly stands as an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to fostering a work environment free from discrimination. We firmly uphold the principles of equality, ensuring that all individuals are treated fairly without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Our commitment to inclusivity and diversity is unwavering, and we enthusiastically encourage applicants from all walks of life to join our team.

• Maintain Accurate Records: Actively manage sign-in/out records and follow proper procedures to ensure accountability.

• Oversee Camper Information: Review and maintain detailed rosters of assigned campers for smooth operations.

• Deliver Quality Service: Provide exceptional customer service to all participants, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment.

• Enforce Policies and Regulations: Ensure compliance with all guidelines set forth by East Hartford Parks and Recreation.

• Ensure Camp Safety: Maintain clean, organized, and supervised campgrounds at all times.

• Plan and Lead Activities: Develop, implement, and oversee engaging activities for campers of diverse ages and abilities.

• Follow Assigned Schedules: Stay on track and actively participate in all scheduled activities.

• Assist with Aquatic Safety: Support lifeguards in supervising aquatic activities, prioritizing camper safety.

• Supervise Field Trips: Maintain professionalism and control during on- and off-site field trips.

• Practice Equipment Safety: Promote safe use of equipment and supplies in all activities.

• Utilize Emergency Training: Apply CPR, First Aid, AED, and Bloodborne Pathogens training when necessary.

• Communicate Effectively: Address issues or announcements with staff, parents, and guardians clearly and professionally.

• Document Incidents: Provide thorough documentation for incidents, accidents, and behavior reports.

• Accommodate Special Needs: Ensure reasonable accommodations for participants with special needs, fostering inclusivity.

• Implement Behavior Management: Apply effective discipline and behavior management strategies consistently.

• Distribute Information: Share handouts and relevant materials with parents and guardians.

• Support Camp Operations: Assist in the overall functioning of the camp program, contributing to its success.

• Mentor New Staff: Act as a supportive mentor to new team members, promoting collaboration.

• Be a Role Model: Serve as a positive role model for both campers and fellow staff.

• Follow Instructions: Execute tasks as directed by the Parks and Recreation Department.

• Applicants must be at least 18 years old.

• Prior experience working with children in camp, recreational, or educational settings is highly preferred.

• Demonstrated strong leadership, communication, and organizational abilities.

• Ability to collaborate effectively within a team and foster positive relationships with both campers and staff.

• Creativity, enthusiasm, and a genuine passion for supporting children in an inclusive environment.

• Flexibility to adapt to evolving situations and remain calm and effective in handling emergencies.

• Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including availability for evenings and weekends.

• Current CPR and First Aid certification is encouraged and considered an asset.

Salary : $29,757 - $31,577