Camp Counselor Job Description
Thank you for your interest in working with us this summer!
We are looking for counselors who are passionate about fostering a supportive, inclusive, and fun environment. You’ll be living in a cabin with 6-10 campers and one other counselor (depending on the session), creating a safe and joyful space where each camper can thrive. Because counselors live in cabins with campers overnight, we seek applicants comfortable supervising and supporting girls and gender expansive youth in this setting. We especially value recent high school or college graduates, or those closer in age to campers, to help foster a peer-like experience. This role is ideal if you’re looking to grow your leadership skills, make lifelong memories, and be part of a team working toward something truly meaningful.
*Interested but not yet ready to apply? Fill out the interest form!
Details —
Compensation & Benefits:
Weekly Stipend: $400 to $1,100, based on experience.
Food & Housing: Included.
Additional Benefits:
Hands-on experience working with children.
Leadership, organizational, and communication skill development.
A dynamic and fun outdoor work setting.
A $200 bonus if you refer a friend who is hired!
Schedule & Work Conditions:
Training Start Date: June 14, 2026.
Camp Dates: June 21 to August 14, 2026, with one full week off (July 18–25). Weekly time off is also provided for personal recharge.
Early/Late Stay Option: Counselors may arrive early or stay late if necessary, with college summer housing available.
Physical Requirements & Training:
Complete Mandated Reporter Training to uphold camper safety and comply with regulations.
Comfortable carrying up to 40 lbs over uneven terrain and working in various weather conditions.
Learn and adhere to all camp rules, safety guidelines, and Emergency Action Plans (EAP) to ensure a safe environment.
Obtain Red Cross Waterfront Lifeguard training (for lifeguard-designated positions).
Earn Wilderness First Responder Certification (required for designated counselor leader positions).
Key Responsibilities:
Have Fun! Bring your energy and enthusiasm to each day! Help campers feel excited about camp, create cabin and camp traditions, encourage curiosity, and create joyful, small “in between” moments that campers will carry with them long after camp ends.
Activity Leadership: Plan and lead a variety of activities, including arts and crafts, swimming, gardening, hiking, campfires, group challenges, and games. Be open to trying new things and teaching activities you’re new to or passionate about, bringing your creativity and enthusiasm to each experience.
Camper Support & Well-being: Help campers feel welcome, safe, and included. Actively listen to campers, offering support as they navigate social situations like homesickness and cabin conflicts. Assist with healthcare by monitoring campers' health needs, administering medications, providing basic first aid, and helping document any health concerns. Communicate regularly with Directors to ensure camper needs are met and concerns are addressed promptly.
Cabin Leadership & Maintenance: Live in cabins with campers/counselors and lead your cabin group through cabin inspections, helping maintain a clean, organized, and comfortable living space. Assist with daily upkeep by cleaning and maintaining shared camp facilities as needed. Perform various duties to ensure that camp functions to the highest standards, creating an environment that’s supportive, safe, and fun for everyone. Remain on call during overnight programs to support campers with nighttime needs, including homesickness, illness, or safety concern
Role Modeling: Demonstrate positive behavior, flexibility, and enthusiasm. Be a role model by embracing camp enthusiasm and joining activities—from games and challenges to gardening and cooking—encouraging campers to explore their boundaries and discover new experiences.
Safety & Supervision: Supervise campers during all activities, including swim time, and mediate conflicts when needed. Maintain a safe environment, address bullying, respond to conflicts promptly, and actively contribute to an inclusive environment where campers of all identities, backgrounds, and abilities feel valued and supported.
Camp Documentation: Keep daily notes on camper activities, observations, and important moments. Capture photos for internal camp documentation only (no personal use).
Constant Communication & Team Collaboration: Communicate consistently with Director and fellow staff members about camper needs, safety concerns, schedule changes, and program ideas. Support a collaborative, communicative staff culture that ensures smooth camp operations and a strong, aligned team.
Support for Overall Camp Operations: Step in to support essential camp functions as needed, which may include cooking, gardening, cleaning and maintaining camp facilities, administrative tasks, preparing program materials, and assisting Directors with special projects. Staff work together to meet the evolving needs of camp and ensure a smooth, high-quality experience for all campers.
Qualities We Look For:
Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
Enthusiasm, patience, and flexibility.
Self-motivated and proactive – able to notice what needs to be done and take initiative without being asked.
Genuine care for children and a commitment to supporting their growth, well-being, and confidence.
Openness to receiving feedback and using it to improve performance and provide the best experience for campers.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
Emotional maturity and stability when handling challenges.
Desired Qualifications:
Experience working with kids or in a camp setting.
Experience leading outdoor activities such as hiking, canoeing, gardening, or group challenges.
Experience facilitating group dynamics, conflict resolution, or social-emotional learning.
Teaching experience – classroom and outdoor education.
CPR/First Aid certification.
Valid driver’s license.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the USA without the need for sponsorship now or in the future.
Additional Qualifications That May Increase Salary:
Wilderness First Responder/Wilderness First Aid certification.
Lifeguard certification.
Leave No Trace Trainer or Master Educator certification.
Application Process: All applicants must complete a formal application, which includes submitting a written application, references and criminal background checks, introduction, and 2–4 interviews.
To include a Cover Letter with your application, please email info@growingroutes.org
Only candidates who are selected for an interview will be contacted.
If you have questions or would like more information, please contact info@growingroutes.org.
**Interested but not yet ready to apply? Fill out the interest form!