Summer Camp Lead Counselor

General Summary : The Lead Counselor supports the core mission of USM Summer Camps by planning and implementing age-appropriate instruction and activities for students (PK-8), in accordance with approved curriculum and program objectives. This role drives the daily camp experience, overseeing activities, guiding campers, and managing camper behavior and junior staff to deliver a successful and enriching summer program. 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:

• Lead campers through hands-on, mission-aligned activities and guided adventures, utilizing campus spaces and the outdoors to foster curiosity, growth, and skill development.
• Proactively prepare for all assigned activities, materials, and equipment. Ensure program readiness and assume responsibility for the care and condition of all facilities and resources.
• Provide active supervision for campers during all activities, transitions, lunch periods, and field trips ensuring a safe, smooth, and friendly environment
• Enforce positive camper expectations and manage behavior across all settings to maintain a safe, friendly, and adventure-ready atmosphere.
• Collaborate with Junior Counselors and Activity Counselors, providing direction, support, and oversight for daily activities to ensure smooth, memorable, and successful implementation.
• Be familiar with camper needs and your group (allergies, ailments, specialty needs) and how best to support them.
• Cultivate a warm, energetic, and safe learning environment where every camper feels supported, encouraged to participate, and motivated to explore, learn, and build friendships.
• Work closely with the Head Counselor to strengthen the overall Summer Program and complete additional tasks as assigned by Camp Leadership.
• Completes other tasks as deemed appropriate by Summer Camp Leadership Staff.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Possesses a solid understanding of early childhood and elementary-age camper development and learning needs.
• Demonstrates strong behavior management skills and the ability to effectively supervise, engage, and work with a diverse student body.
• Exhibits strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively
• Ability to maintain positive, professional relationships with campers, families, and staff, utilizing tact and diplomacy.
• Shows a high level of maturity, assertiveness, and confidentiality.
• Ability to provide excellent customer service.
• Possesses strong organizational skills
• Demonstrates a high degree of self-direction, initiative, and motivation
• Displays flexibility and patience when managing various camp situations.

Education and Experience:

• High school or college student
• Child care experience preferred
• Experience in educational technology
• CPR/AED Certification (or willingness to procure)