Summer Camp Junior Counselor

General Summary: The USM Summer Camps Junior Counselor supports the mission of USM Summer Camps by ensuring a fun, safe, and positive camp experience. This role works closely with the Camp Faculty, Head Counselors, Lead Counselors, Instructors, and Activity Counselors to execute daily programming. Junior Counselors deliver a broad range of camp duties leading to effective student learning, behavior management, and instruction.  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:

• Assist the Lead Counselor and faculty with instructional and recreational activities, both on and off campus. This includes proactively helping lead campers through planned games and activities.
• Prepare and organize activity materials, equipment, and supplies as directed by the summer leadership team, ensuring all daily adventures run smoothly and on schedule.
• Provide active supervision for campers during all activities, transitions, lunch periods, and field trips ensuring a safe, smooth, and friendly environment
• Model and help campers understand and adhere to all camp rules and guidelines, supporting positive behavior and constructive problem-solving.
• Be familiar with camper needs and your group (allergies, ailments, specialty needs) and how best to support them.
• Cultivate a safe, positive, and welcoming camp atmosphere where every camper feels comfortable, respected, included, and ready for fun.
• Collaborate closely with the Lead Counselor, faculty, staff, and administration to proactively support the diverse needs of all campers and ensure a smooth, positive camp experience for all.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Has foundational knowledge of early childhood and elementary-age campers.
• Ability and desire to work with young children.
• Camp 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.
• Strong communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills with a high level of self-direction and motivation.
• High level of maturity, confidentiality, and assertiveness
• Ability to provide excellent customer service
• Shows flexibility and patience in a variety of camp situations.
• Able to use tact and diplomacy when working with campers, families, and staff.

Education and Experience:

• Some High School coursework
• Some experience working in an educational environment preferred