AstroCamp Looking for Cabin Counselor, Photographer & Social Media Counselor, Audio Visual Counselor at Idyllwild , California Full Time

Location: Idyllwild, CA

Work Year: Summer Season (June 1-August 7)

Responsible to: Camp Director/Assistant Camp Director/Head Counselor(s)

What is the job of an AstroCamp counselor like?

Though an immensely rewarding job, this is a HARD JOB TO DO! The job of a camp counselor is physically and psychologically demanding. Counselors must be physically and mentally fit to adapt to the long days, lack of privacy, and constant needs from campers. Not only must counselors be able to work under these conditions, but they also must retain the essential counselor qualities of patience, kindness, honesty, integrity, emotional stability, maturity of judgment and a desire to work hard.

Previous experience with school-age children is helpful and desirable, but AstroCamp believes that it is more important for counselors to have a sincere desire to learn about the children entrusted to their care. Though we can’t lay claim to the description, it’s apt to characterize the prospects of being a camp counselor as “the hardest job you’ll ever love.”

AstroCamp maintains a policy that ensures that campers are supervised 24-hours a day for the duration of their stay. THE WELL-BEING OF EVERY CAMPER IS PARAMOUNT! Cabin counselors are responsible for the social and emotional experience of their group of campers. Cabin counselors will live and sleep in the dorms, spend cabin time with the campers, supervise camper living habits, and guide the campers in their selection of activities. At mealtimes, counselors will sit at each table with 5-10 children. Counselors are involved in those activities where their teaching skills can be best utilized. On occasion, though, counselors may be asked to “assist” in activities in which they are not particularly experienced. However, they are not expected to be the Lead, but rather they assist and help with supervision. We have great confidence in our staff to carry out all duties and responsibilities; however, discussion and/or questions are encouraged should special situations arise.

AstroCamp cabin counselors are not required to have any background or education in physical science and astronomy, however, an interest is encouraged.

Supervisory Responsibilities: No

General Responsibility:

The counselor is responsible for the needs of the campers and to assist in the supervision and facilitating of programs, camp rules and regulations.

Specific Responsibilities (Examples of Duties):

1. Learn the names and likes/dislikes of your campers. Be knowledgeable about the needs of campers including special diets, eating habits, etc.
2. Assure the cleanliness of dorms and areas daily.
3. Counsel campers when necessary.
4. Create a cohesive bond within the camper group.
5. Supervise and participate in recreation programs, keeping control of the group.
6. Adhere to safety rules and company policies and procedures for the well-being of the campers and staff.
7. Assist groups with programs. This may include lifeguarding, conducting hikes or other recreational activities during all recreational periods.
8. Assist with meal supervision of food services, including set up and clean up. Sit with the campers during meals.
9. Assist with group arrival and departure procedures as assigned.
10. Be able to respond to emergency situations when necessary.
11. Assist with other departments when required, potentially for an extended period. This includes additional cleaning duties as required (wiping surfaces, extra cleaning of living spaces, etc)
12. Other duties as assigned by Camp Director, Assistant Camp Director or Head Counselor. 

Essential Functions:

1. Must be able to effectively work with the campers, counselors, supervisors and other staff.
2. Ability to communicate any problems with staff or campers to Camp Director, Assistant Camp Director, or Head Counselor.
3. Ability to assist campers and staff in the transition of camp life.
4. Good physical condition with mobility, visual and auditory skills to maintain control of 8-10 campers in a variety of environments (in the dorms, on hikes, in learning sessions, in the water, etc).
5. Ability to lift, carry and move heavy objects when necessary.
6. Good communication and organization skills are necessary to ensure a good experience for the staff and campers.
7. Ability to properly respond to emergency situations and enforce appropriate safety rules.

Benefits:

1. Housing
2. Full meals at the camp dining hall when the kitchen is in operation.
3. Workers compensation insurance and state disability insurance.
4. Ability to participate in camp programs.
5. Opportunity to live and work in a beautiful outdoor environment.

Salary:

First-year counselors will receive $365.00 per week, along with opportunities to make extra money with extra responsibilities. (i.e. Airport Transportation).     

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

1. Must have completed one full year of college or equivalent experience.
2. Must be at least two years older than the oldest camper age group (oldest camper=17 years old).
3. Past experience working with children – formally (recreational leader, camp counselor, tutor) or informally (babysitting, siblings, etc)
4. Must have strong communication and human relation skills.
5. Certification in first aid and CPR preferred (not required).
6. Able to accept supervision and guidance and assist in activities where needed.
7. Desire to live and work in remote camp community.
8. Desire to work with children and ability to supervise them in related activities.
9. Good character, integrity, flexibility and adaptability.
10. Enthusiasm, sense of humor, patience and self-control.
11. Must be able to successfully perform the essential functions of this position.
12. Must be fully immunized including the COVID-19 vaccine prior to the start of camp.