Hat Creek Summer Camp Counselor

About the role

Hat Creek Camp Counselors are an instrumental part of making our campers’ experiences fun, safe, and memorable! We provide a home away from home where our staff are free to stretch their comfort zone, grow in ways they never knew possible, and discover the joy of summer camp. Camp Counselors have the unique opportunity to spend each day directly investing in campers while participating in a variety of fun-filled activities such as archery, swimming, kayaking, campfires, large group games, mealtime songs, and skits. Every week is different at camp, and our Camp Counselors bring the energy, flexibility, and enthusiasm that help make each camper’s week special! Counselors lead and supervise their cabin group throughout the day, build positive relationships with campers, encourage participation, and help create a safe and welcoming environment where every camper feels known and included. Hat Creek Camp provides staff the opportunity to grow their skills in group management, age-appropriate programming, relationship building, leadership, and safety and supervision. Staff will undergo a two-week training in preparation for summer camp. The training encompasses protocols and procedures as well as trauma informed care, games, bonding, and goofiness. Camp Counselors are supported by Lead Counselors and guided and supervised by the Camp Program Manager. Our staff form close, lifelong friendships that last long after summer camp is over.

Responsibilities

• Create a positive and safe community for campers and staff.
• Provide direct supervision and care for assigned campers.
• Build positive relationships with campers and help each camper feel known, included, and supported.
• Facilitate and actively participate in all summer camp programming and activities.
• Maintain knowledge of camp schedules, programs, protocols, and procedures.
• Lead campers through daily routines, including meals, hygiene, cabin cleanup, activities, and bedtime.
• Manage camper behavior using positive, consistent, and age-appropriate strategies.
• Learn and lead camp songs, games, skits, and mealtime activities.
• Communicate camper needs and concerns to Lead Counselors and camp leadership.
• Work collaboratively with staff and participate in cleaning, program setup/cleanup, meetings, and debriefs.

Requirements

Experience: Leadership experience and/or experience working with kids preferred.

Certification & Licenses: Current CPR and First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain certification during staff training.

Other Requirements: Passion for working with children and making a difference; ability to work Sunday-Friday during summer programming weeks; willingness to get outside of your comfort zone; ability to pass a background and reference check; minimum 18 years old.

Skills

• Active Listening – Ability to actively attend to, understand, and respond to the comments and needs of others.
• Adaptability – Ability to