COA’s Camp Helen Brachman Overnight Camp Counselor (Summer Only)

Department: Camp

Reports to: Assistant Camp Director

Compensation: $450 ($500 if Lifeguard Certified)/week (June 22 – July 24) – Includes room & board

OVERNIGHT CAMP COUNSELOR POSITIONS AVAILABLE: 12-15

Minimum age requirement: 18 years of age

General Summary: The Overnight Camp Counselor at Camp Helen Brachman is responsible for supervising and mentoring a cabin group while helping ensure campers have a safe, positive, and meaningful camp experience. Counselors provide 24-hour supervision of their cabin (outside of scheduled time off), model respectful behavior, and help campers build community, cooperation, and problem-solving skills. They support campers in maintaining healthy routines, monitor camper well-being, manage behavior using encouragement and clear expectations, and communicate concerns with camp leadership when needed. Camp Counselors also plan and lead activities, support camp-wide programs and events, and contribute to the overall mission and culture of camp.

This position is not eligible for benefits other than those described in the Employee Handbook.

Job Responsibilities – Essential Functions

1. Understand and support the mission and goals of COA Youth & Family Centers and Camp Helen Brachman.
2. Help each camper have a safe, meaningful, and enjoyable camp experience by contributing positively to the overall camp environment.
3. Recognize and respond to campers’ developmental needs, including challenges such as homesickness, peer relationships, and confidence building. Use age-appropriate approaches to support positive peer interaction and behavior management.
4. Represent Camp Helen Brachman in a mature and respectful manner by participating fully in camp activities with energy and enthusiasm and by actively engaging in staff training and professional development.
5. Contribute as a supportive member of the camp team by communicating openly, addressing concerns respectfully with appropriate individuals, and recognizing the efforts of fellow staff members.
6. Demonstrate reliability and accountability by maintaining personal well-being and acting with maturity and compassion toward campers, staff, and volunteers.
7. Plan and lead cabin and activities that encourage cooperation, communication, trust, personal growth, and self-confidence among campers.
8. Ensure that all activities are conducted with a “Camper First” and “Safety First” approach.
9. Maintain a camper-centered mindset that recognizes the wide range of camper experiences and encourages healthy routines and safe hygiene practices.
10. Help maintain a clean and safe camp environment by caring for facilities and grounds and leaving spaces in good condition.
11. Fulfill all responsibilities outlined in the employment agreement, including attending required staff training and working the full summer camp season.

Qualifications:

Education / Knowledge / Experience

• High School diploma or equivalent required
• Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record (for staff who will drive)
• Minimum of two years of experience working with youth preferred
• Previous residential camp experience preferred
• Lifeguard certification preferred
• Current First Aid and CPR certification required

Skills / Personal Qualities / Attitude

• Demonstrates the values of COA Youth & Family Centers
• Passion for serving youth and families
• Commitment to the mission and philosophy of camp and youth development
• Strong organizational and youth leadership skills
• Patience, positive attitude, and respect for cultural differences
• Ability to remain flexible and work well under pressure
• Demonstrated skills in designated camp program areas
• Enjoyment of outdoor activities and active engagement with campers

Physical Requirements / Working Conditions

The physical demands for this position include:

• Ability to stand, sit, and walk for extended periods of time
• Ability to lift at least 30 pounds
• Strength and stamina to maintain active supervision of campers
• Visual and auditory ability to recognize and respond to environmental hazards
• Ability to respond appropriately in emergency situations and provide basic first aid when necessary

This position works primarily in an outdoor camp setting and involves regular exposure to varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, and rain. Counselors must be prepared to participate in a wide range of activities and respond quickly to changing situations or emergencies.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

This description outlines the general responsibilities of the role and is not intended to be a complete list of all duties or expectations.