Summer Camp Counselor

Camp Counselor

At NSSRA, we believe that everyone deserves the chance to play. Formed in 1970 with that goal in mind, we became the first Special Recreation Association in the country, offering programs and services for children, teens, and adults with disabilities. We are similar to a park district; however, we only serve residents in our partner communities with special needs.

Over fifty years later, we serve approximately 1,300 individuals throughout the year in the northern suburbs of Chicago. We're all about creating an environment of belonging through play, and we want you to be a part of our team!

About The Job

As a Camp Counselor at NSSRA, you will work with individuals of varying ages and disabilities, provide hands-on support, and implement activities including sports, games, swimming, arts, outdoor activities, leisure, community outings, and more. Camp Counselors may work in ratios of 1:1, 1:2, or 1:3 depending on participant needs. This role is an excellent opportunity to develop your professional skills, build meaningful relationships and make a significant impact. Additionally, NSSRA provides Inclusion services for individuals with disabilities participating in Summer Camp Programs at our partnering agencies. Our Inclusion services cover all support aspects, including hands-on assistance and implementation of activity adaptions to ensure full participation and inclusivity.

In this role, you will be responsible for the following tasks:

• Actively engage and supervise individuals with disabilities.
• Ensure the safety of participants during summer recreation programs, transportation, transition times, etc.
• Communicate professionally and consistently with participants, parents, team members, and the public when needed.
• Submit timely reports, evaluations, and time sheets, maintaining accurate and complete records.
• Fulfill other duties as assigned.

About You

To be a Camp Counselor, you must be 16 years of age or older.

No experience is necessary, but a desire to learn and grow as a professional and be a team player is required. Paid training is provided for all our employees.

We strive to provide exceptional participant experiences and seek highly motivated, enthusiastic, and professional individuals who are committed to that standard. This is an opportunity to earn a competitive wage while engaging in meaningful work and gaining hands-on experience that supports both personal and professional growth.

The Fine Print

All positions are part-time and work schedules are based on your availability and participant registration needs. Summer only employees are eligible to work up to 40 hours a week. Reliable transportation is required to ensure attendance at all scheduled camp programs. When committing to a summer program, you must be able to work all assigned dates for the season.

Positions available throughout our 13 partner communities:

• Deerfield
• Glencoe
• Glenview
• Highland Park
• Highwood
• Kenilworth
• Lake Bluff
• Lake Forest
• Northbrook
• Northfield
• Riverwoods
• Wilmette
• Winnetka

Pay: Starting at $16.50 per hour

Benefits:

• Paid Time Off
• Referral Program
• Eligible for Summer Attendance Program Bonus

NSSRA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.