Head Camp Counselor (Youth Programs)

If you have any questions, please contact the Youth Programs Management Team; camps@recreation.ucsb.edu.

Job Description

The Youth Programs Head Counselor Position represents the Department of Recreation and Youth Programs to Recreation staff, parents, participants, and the UCSB community. Head Counselors are responsible for the general supervision and management of our Youth Programs staff, lead staff, and children within the UCSB Summer Day Camp program. Head Counselors will be responsible for creating a weekly schedule for their assigned age groups in coordination with Youth Programs Lead Staff, and provide additional support to their staff and children as needed, including but not limited to, participation in group activities, counseling children, and effectively communicating with parents. We are looking for enthusiastic and passionate people with Day Camp and/ or teaching experience.

A Teaching Credential (or working towards a credential) is preferred and/or having early childhood care experience.

Responsibilities Include (But Are Not Limited To):

• Provide general supervision of the campers
• Assist with oversight and leadership of Youth Programs Staff and Leads
• Schedule weekly activities and input in weekly staff schedule
• Work well and communicate effectively with the camp staff including other Head Counselors, the Youth
• Programs Student Managers, and the External Relations Coordinator
• Serve as a liaison between Youth Programs Staff and Parents
• Assist with camp registration and administration
• Be knowledgeable of and enforce Summer Day Camp and Recreation policies and procedures
• Provide First Aid and activate emergency protocols when necessary
• Other duties as assigned

Required:

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Must have a teaching credential or a minimum of 2 years of early childhood care experience
• Maintain current CPR /AED/ First Aid for the Professional Rescuer certification (certification classes
• will be provided at a discounted fee)
• Complete online training modules
• Be present and on-site every scheduled shift
• Wear appropriate uniform
• Attend and assist with mandatory camp meetings and training
• Other duties as assigned

Hours & Timeline:

• Complete online trainings and attain mandatory certifications
• Full time hours throughout the 9 weeks of Camp from June 16 - August 15, 2025

Pay:

Head Counselors are paid a stipend for the following:

• $1111.11 per week in Head Counselor role
• $16.50 per hour for staff training and meetings