Village Support Lead Counselors

Description

Who are we:

• We are not just any summer camp; we’re something more
• We provide a safe space for our campers from challenging neighborhoods in San Francisco
• We promote and value diversity, equity, inclusivity, and belonging within a strong staff community
• We influence & inspire our campers to help them become more successful & proactive adults
• We foster an environment that allows our staff to thrive and grow as professionals, no matter their chosen field
• We’re a ton of fun!

Who are you:

• You are a role model who will always put our youth first
• You have an unparalleled sense of integrity, emotional intelligence, & commitment to quality work
• You believe in the power of working and playing in nature
• You thrive while working collaboratively
• You are willing to learn, grow, & get better
• You value creativity, professionalism, empathy, & patience

Position Purpose

Support Lead Counselors support the Lead Counselor/Unit Director of each group. Most days, this position serves as an Events Specialist, providing planning support for activities and events in the village, as well as direct supervision of youth. This position also supports the Lead Counselor in coaching staff, holding group expectations, and completing paperwork. On Lead Counselor days off, the Support Lead Counselor will take on the responsibilities of the Lead Counselor. 

Key Responsibilities

• Responsible for supervising a group of up to 40 youth and supporting a small team of staff members
• Plan & facilitate high-level, engaging programming for specific age groups
• Supervise youth at all times including overnight in a cabin with approximately 5 campers
• Foster camper growth in the areas of: life skills, self care, and interpersonal skills
• Ensure safety of all campers in their group including setting clear safety expectations, observing and engaging campers while in their care, assessing the appropriateness of camper behaviors
• Assist the Lead Counselor in managing and coaching counselors, including running daily team meetings when appropriate 
• Ensure the physical and emotional needs of staff and campers in their group are being met
• Support the group’s daily schedule and activities schedule 
• Engage campers with positivity, including participating in all camp activities. 
• Lead & plan traditional Camp activities, including but not limited to: arts & crafts, archery, hiking, environmental education, and sports. 
• Facilitate mediation, mentoring, and conflict resolution
• Contact parents/guardians and ensure consistent communication with camper families
• Ensure campers’ medical needs are met through consultation with infirmary staff
• Attend all required meetings and trainings
• Maintain accurate documentation and paperwork
• Foster character development consistent with BGCSF philosophy
• Other duties as specified by direct supervisor

Requirements

Required Skills

• Experience providing youth instruction in a multitude of disciplines. 
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with coworkers and campers.
• Ability to handle difficult or stressful situations in a professional manner.
• Experience planning and facilitating events and activities.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Desire to work outdoors 24/7.

Preferred Skills

• Experience working with youth in an overnight camp setting.
• Experience working with youth from disadvantaged circumstances.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to lift 50lbs.
• Must be able to walk on uneven terrain for at least 3 miles.
• Must be able to stand for 8 hours (with breaks).
• Must be able to work in temperatures ranging from 30° to 100°.

Schedule

• Temporary/Seasonal Summer position.
• Applicants should be available June 5 - August 6, 2025 to work & live on-site at our Camp location in Northern California (Mendocino County). 
• Staff members work 40-56 hours/week depending on position with two days off per week. Days off vary per session. 

Benefits

• Onsite lodging is provided for all staff.
• Three cooked meals per day are provided onsite, including on days off (gluten-free, vegan, & vegetarian options).
• Free onsite laundry.
• Employee Assistance Program: in-person counseling + 24/7 confidential mental health support.
• Onsite workout facilities.