Summer Camp Head Counselor: Discovery Camp

General Summary:  Works with other Head Counselors to support the USM Summer Camp   classroom, directors, teachers, and staff in the delivery of a broad range of classroom and camp duties leading to effective student learning, classroom management, instruction, operations, and logistics.  The application will include written questions focused on the role that will be used to further conversation within the interview process.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Coordinates with summer staff and teachers to ensure daily activities and lessons run smoothly, safely, and as planned.
• Works with children ages 3–5 on a regular basis
• Collaborates with Activity Counselors to prepare and gather materials and equipment as directed by summer faculty, ensuring smooth daily programming.
• Serves as a resource and support when the regular instructor is away and may step in to lead the group when needed to keep camp activities running smoothly.
• Supervises Campers.
• Conducts regular staff check-ins and evaluations within camp areas to support performance, consistency, and program quality.
• Helps campers understand and follow camp expectations to keep activities safe, positive, and fun.
• Helps organize and lead lunchroom operations to ensure a smooth, safe, and positive experience for campers.
• Helps maintain a safe and positive camp environment.
• Works collaboratively with faculty, staff, and administration to support the diverse needs of campers and ensure a positive camp experience for all.
• Be familiar with camper needs and your group (allergies, ailments, specialty needs) and how best to support them.
• Supports snack bar operations as part of daily camp flow.
• Supports camp needs and other duties as they come up throughout the day.
• Participates in a car circle daily.
• Participates as the lead for AM or PM extended time care.
• Must be available to work 9 weeks of the summer (Certain days off can be discussed in advance).
• Supports camp leadership with paperwork when assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Some knowledge in early childhood and/or elementary education.
• Skilled at effectively redirecting staff to ensure alignment with goals and priorities.
• Ability and desire to work with young children.
• Behavior management skills with the ability and desire to work with a diverse student body.
• Ability to work collaboratively with others and maintain positive professional relationships.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to facilitate and lead group activities and games.
• Knowledge of attention getters, icebreakers and transition games.
• Excellent organizational skills with a strong degree of self- direction and motivation.
• High level of maturity, confidentiality, and assertiveness.
• Ability to provide excellent customer service.
• Flexibility and patience.
• Capable of using tact and diplomacy in dealing with others.

Education and Experience:

• High School Diploma, some college coursework preferred
• 1-2 years of summer camp experience preferred
• 1-2 years of experience working with 3–5-year-olds in a child care setting preferred
• Some experience working in an educational environment preferred
• CPR/AED Certification (or willingness to procure)