Head Camp Counselor

Head Camp Counselors are involved in the day-to-day activities of campers but are also the main support system for the counselors. Head Counselors are to lead by example; communicate in a clear, concise, and timely manner with the Program Coordinator, counselors, and parents; execute the daily schedule smoothly and to adjust when necessary. Head counselors are the cornerstone to running a successful summer camp program, and looks great on your resume.

Pay is an hourly rate of $12/hour. Employees will get to utilize parks and recreation facilities including the Milner Recreation Center and the Gilley Pool free of charge, not during scheduled working hours.

Minimum Training and Experience

HS Degree or equivalent

Must be able to maintain CPR, First Aid and AED certifications

Lift and move 45 lbs or more

• Responsible for supervising and managing all counselors. This supervision includes daily check ins, informal positive and constructive feedback, support during difficult or emergency situations, and providing input and direction about strategies for working with specific children or the group as a whole.
• Supervises participants while protecting their physical, psychological, and emotional health.
• Acts as a positive role model while teaching and encouraging healthy leisure lifestyles.
• Facilitates group cooperation, effective communication, leadership, and problems solving skills.
• Plans and submits diverse weekly recreational schedules to the Recreation Program Coordinator.
• Works on committees for special camp events.
• Participates in pre-training and all in-service during the camping season. Including CPR/FIRST AID/AED.
• Becomes knowledgeable of all material in the staff manual.
• Maintains and implements safety standards and procedures at all times to ensure a well-run program in a safe, positive environment.
• Follows and initiates correct procedures during emergency situations.
• Communicates positive and critical feedback openly to the Recreation Program Coordinator.
• Promotes positive two-way communication and maintains sensitivity in handling individual differences to children, parents, co-workers, and supervisors.
• Follows a very intricate schedule allowing for flexibility due to daily problems, conflicts, and emergencies.
• Works with other camp counselors within the same division to coordinate specific group programs.
• Performs a public relation function by acting as a spokesperson for the program and the department. You are not only representing Kids Camp but the entire Parks and Recreation Department and the City of McMinnville.
• Observes all camp regulations which pertain to you as a staff member.
• Performs other duties as assigned to ensure the quality camper experience.
• Supports the staff in developing and implementing fun, creative, and engaging activities.
• Head Counselors are responsible for managing behavior of campers which may include de-escalation, parent follow-up, and creating behavior plans when necessary.
• Head Counselors are the main line of communication between camp and camper families. General update phone calls, when necessary, as a basis to all camper parents throughout the session, in addition to communication in emergency situations or when significant behavioral issues present at camp.
• Head Counselors must develop a strong working relationship with our camp parents and provide outstanding customer service.