Lead Counselor

Overview

Who are We:

• We are not just any summer camp; we’re something more
• We provide a safe space for our campers from challenging neighborhoods in San Francisco
• We promote and value diverse, equitable, inclusive, and belonging within a strong staff community
• We influence & inspire our campers to help them become more successful & proactive adults
• We foster an environment that allows our staff to thrive and grow as professionals, no matter their chosen field
• We’re a ton of fun!

Who are You:

• You are a role model who will always put our youth first
• You have an unparalleled sense of integrity, emotional intelligence, & commitment to quality work
• You believe in the power of working and playing in nature
• You thrive while working collaboratively
• You are willing to learn, grow, & get better
• You value creativity, professionalism, empathy, & patience

Position Purpose

 

Lead Counselors manage a small team of Camp counselors (6-8 staff) and are responsible for a group of up to 20 youth, ensuring a positive camp experience, managing behavior issues, and participating in all Camp activities

Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

• Foster camper growth in the areas of: life skills, self-care, and interpersonal skills.
• Ensure the safety of all campers in their group including setting clear safety expectations, observing and engaging campers while in their care, assessing the appropriateness of camper behaviors, and following emergency procedures, and all COVID-19 safety protocols.
• Manage and coach counselors ensuring proper supervision of youth, including running daily team meetings.
• Ensure the physical and emotional needs of staff and campers in their group are being met.
• Oversees the daily schedule and activities schedule for campers is adhered to.
• Lead & plan traditional Camp activities, including but not limited to: arts & crafts, archery, hiking, environmental education, and sports. 
• Facilitate mediation, mentoring, and conflict resolution.
• Work as a liaison between youth and staff to sustain a positive, safe, and fun environment.
• Contact parents/guardians and ensure consistent communication with camper families.
• Ensure campers’ medical needs are met through consultation with infirmary staff.
• Attend all required meetings and training.
• Maintain accurate documentation and paperwork.
• Foster character development consistent with BGCSF philosophy.
• Engage campers with positivity, including participating in cheers, talent shows, and overnight hikes.
• Directly supervise youth in activities or in a cabin overnight.
• Other duties as specified by the direct supervisor.

By the end of the summer, an incredible Lead Counselor will:

• Build a safe & positive environment.
• Create opportunities for fun & belonging for all campers. 
• Establish supportive relationships with campers and adult staff.
• Encourage a sense of belonging, usefulness, influence, and confidence in campers.
• Create intentional & inclusive plans for campers who need extra support.
• Coach staff in best practices working with youth.
• Advocate for staff well-being, and support their professional growth.

Qualifications

Required Skills

• Minimum 2 years experience in youth development.
• Experience working with middle school-aged youth. 
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively and communicate with coworkers, parents, and campers.
• Ability to handle challenging or stressful situations in a professional manner.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Preferred Skills

• Experience working with youth from disadvantaged circumstances.
• Experience working with youth in an overnight camp setting.
• Experience supervising staff.

Physical Requirements

• Proof of COVID-19 vaccination upon employment.
• Must be able to lift 50lbs.
• Must be able to walk on uneven terrain for at least 3 miles.
• Must be able to stand for 8 hours (with breaks).
• Must be able to work in temperatures ranging from 30° to 100°.

Schedule

• Temporary/Seasonal Summer position.
• Applicants should be available June 7 - August 7, 2023 to work & live on-site at our Camp location in Northern California (Mendocino County). 
• Staff members work 40-56 hours/week depending on position with two days off per week. Days off vary per session. 

Lodging

Lead Counselors will sleep on bunk beds in open-air cabins while supervising youth overnight. 

 

Benefits

• Onsite lodging is provided for all staff.
• Three cooked meals per day are provided onsite, including on days off (gluten-free, vegan, & vegetarian options).
• Free onsite laundry.
• Employee Assistance Program: In-Person Counseling + 24/7 Confidential Mental Health Support.
• Sick Time.
• Onsite workout facilities. 
• Free Wifi access in the staff lounge. 
• Free 1-year membership to the American Camp Association.

Pay

The wage range for this role takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and BGCSF needs.  At BGCSF,  our decisions are based on other factors and are dependent on the circumstances of each position.  Depending on the need and requirement of the position,  an individual could be hired at or near the entry level, mid-level or top of the range for their role and compensation.  As such, a reasonable estimate for this temporary summer position from June 7 - August 7, 2023, is $4,250.00.

 

Disclaimer

Boys & Girls Clubs of San Francisco is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The information presented indicates the general nature and level of work expected of employees in this classification. It is not designed to contain, nor to be interpreted as, a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications and objectives required of employees assigned to this job. 

 

If you’re excited about this opportunity, but your experience doesn’t align perfectly, we encourage you to apply anyways and attach a cover letter explaining why it would be a good fit. You may just be the right candidate! 

 

IMPACT | GROWTH | COMMUNITY