Seasonal Adventure/Aquatics Specialist - Camp Oak Spring

Job Description

Job Description

Seasonal Adventure/Aquatics Specialist:

Position Purpose:

To further the mission of the camp through the development and delivery of adventure and/or aquatics activities at the camp. Deliver activities that are safe, progressive, and appropriate to the campers’ age and abilities. Survey equipment and site before and after use. Ensure all equipment is put away in a secure location when not in use. Provide supervision and ensure a safe environment at the camp’s
aquatics and/or adventure activity areas.

Essential Job Functions:
1. Deliver a progressive adventure and/or aquatics program to campers

• Evaluate each participant to ensure that they possess the physical strength and technical skills to use any equipment
• Assist in the delivery and supervision of all activities and special events in the program areas
• Evaluate abilities of campers and staff and provide instruction and guidance based on needs of the participant

2. Supervise program area as assigned by Manager

• Provide surveillance during activities to help prevent and manage injuries
• Provide safety rescues as needed
• Utilize First Aid & CPR or activate the EAP (Emergency Action Plan) along with other emergency management services as needed
• Understand and implement appropriate response to changes in weather conditions affecting the program area

3. Ensure that camp staff and campers know and follow safety and educational procedures in activity areas

• Assist in the implementation of staff training for aquatics/adventure activities
• Provide safety guidelines, proper protocol and procedures for activities
• Ensure campers and staff follow safety procedures while at the program area
• Convey safety procedures to campers and assess if elements are safe for usage
• Train other staff in their responsibilities, including spotting, watching, and catching

4. Assist in the management and care of the physical facilities & equipment

• Conduct daily check of area and equipment for safety, cleanliness, and good repair
• Clean activity area daily keeping it free of hazards and debris
• Remove garbage from areas as needed
• Bring items left behind in program areas to lost and found as needed

Other Job Duties:

• Attend all trainings and staff meetings before and during the camp season
• Maintain clear and positive written and verbal communication with all camp staff
• Participate enthusiastically in all camp activities, providing support and guidance to all staff
• Participate as a member of the camp staff team to deliver and supervise evening programs, special events, overnights, and other all-camp activities and camp functions
• Provide ongoing program ideas to counseling and program staff
• Adhere to all GSCSNJ council policies and procedures
• Observe all safety precautions and comply with all GSCSNJ council health and safety rules and procedures
• Assist with camper programs as needed, including staff coverage
• Create and implement programmatic elements for each challenge activity that directly relate to the theme of the week

Qualifications:

• Must be at least 15 years of age to work at aquatics areas
• Must be at least 18 years of age to work at adventure areas
• High school graduate preferred
• Current certification in challenge course operation or documented experience and training is preferred for staff administering adventure activities
• American Archery Association Level 1 Archery Certification (or equivalent certification) is required for staff administering archery
• Current certification in Professional First Aid & CPR from a nationally recognized certifying body is required for aquatic areas, preferred for adventure areas
• Current certification as a Lifeguard by a nationally recognized certifying body is required for aquatic areas
• Prior knowledge of Small Craft Safety or Boating Instruction is preferred for aquatic areas
• Must submit health history and record of immunizations prior to the first day of work
• Ability to interact with all age levels

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Training and experience in teaching adventure and/or aquatics activities
• Desire and ability to work with children outdoors
• Good judgment in anticipating and preventing accidents
• Understanding of the development needs of youth
• Ability to relate to youth and adults in a positive manner
• Subscribes to the principles of the Girl Scout movement

Physical Aspects of the Position:

• Ability to communicate and work with groups participating (age and skill levels) and provide necessary instruction to campers and staff
• Ability to observe camper behavior, assess its appropriateness, enforce appropriate safety regulations and emergency procedures, and apply appropriate behavior-management techniques.
• Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to environmental and other hazards related to the activity
• Physical ability to respond appropriately to situations requiring first aid
• Must be able to assist campers in an emergency (fire, evacuation, illness, or injury) and possess strength and endurance required to maintain constant supervision of campers
• Some physical requirements of an Adventure Specialist: Adventure Challenge could be endurance including prolonged standing, some bending, stooping, walking long distances, climbing a ladder or to a platform, and stretching
• The ability to lift up to 100 lbs.
• The ability to withstand daily exposure to the sun, heat, and animals

*Daily Rates are displayed for each 2025 summer positions: Day Camp Rates are based on a M-F schedule. The listed daily rate is based on a 1st year employee*