Turn small moments into lifelong memories at 4-H Camp Owahta! 4-H Camp Owahta, owned and operated by the Cornell Cooperative Extension Association of Cortland County, is a vibrant 128-acre camp in McGraw, NY, complete with cabins, a rustic lodge, a waterfront, sports fields, and wooded trails. Each summer, the camp serves over 400 youth through its overnight and day camp programs.

Senior (Sr.) Counselors are in charge of the most important thing at camp, the campers! All summer long, they build connections, jump into activities with energy and enthusiasm, and serve as positive role models who help make camp a place where everyone feels welcome and included. While keeping the fun going, Sr. Counselors also have safety as their top priority by ensuring campers are always supervised and that all Department of Health (DOH), American Camp Association (ACA), and 4-H Camp Owahta safety regulations, policies, and procedures are followed. Sr. Counselors provide overnight supervision in camper cabins and help set the tone for a positive camp community where every camper can be their true self and “Tap In To Their Potential.

This position is responsible for performing all duties outlined in this description, as well as other responsibilities as assigned and deemed appropriate by the Outdoor Recreation Director.

    

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR APPLICANTS:

PLEASE READ BEFORE APPLYING

All applicants must apply online to be considered for this position. All applicants must complete an application online, which includes: cover letter, resume and three (3) references.

All External Applicants (including applicants currently employed by Cornell Cooperative Extension in Associations other than the Association advertising this career opportunity) must submit his/her application materials via the "APPLY" button located within this job posting.

All Internal Applicants (current employees working for the Association advertising this career opportunity) must apply online via his/her Workday account, which may be accessed here: http://workday.cornell.edu/. 

Please contact the CCE office at 607-391-2660 with questions. 

POSITION DETAILS:

This position is a full-time exempt position, 100% FTE. The summer salary for this position is $2,100.00 to $3,400.00 commensurate with experience.

Sponsorship for employment visa status is not available for this position.

POSITION INFORMATION:

Required Qualifications:

• Must be 18 years of age.
• Attend and participate in all of staff training; June 29-July 3, 2026.
• Minimum of one summer camp season as a camp counselor, program staff, lifeguard, etc.
• Experience working with youth ages 5-16.
• Ability to build positive, approachable relationships with youth, parents, and staff.
• Desire, ability and willingness to work and live in a camp community and to reside at 4-H Camp Owahta, McGraw, NY (including overnights) the entire duration of the camp season (July 5-August 14, 2026).
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Current CPR and First Aid certification(s) from courses approved by the NYS Department of Health (will certify if necessary).
• Experience as a staff member at an overnight summer camp.
• Interest in working with youth primarily outdoors.
• Receptiveness to guidance, supervision and feedback.
• Ability to adapt and remain flexible in dynamic environments.
• Experience working with youth of all ages.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:

Job Responsibilities - 95%

Program Planning & Facilitation

• Engage fully and enthusiastically in all camp activities, including planning, facilitating and assisting in activities as assigned.
• Take direction and guidance from Program Directors during program times.
• Complete and follow through on tasks given to you by Program Directors during program times.
• Assist in programs as needed.

Camper Supervision & Youth Development

• Assist in the direction, supervision, and organization of campers in the cabin, and throughout camp to meet the intended program outcomes.
• Ensure campers are always supervised: during meals, free times, program times, transition times, overnight in the cabin, and all-camp activities.
• Assist campers in following the daily schedule.
• Provide guidance, direction and support to campers; relating to missing home, conflict mediation, personal hygiene, building friendships, developing independence, etc.<