Summer Camp Lead Counselor

Lead Counselor

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)