Discovery Overnight Camp Counselor - Summer 2025

Job Title: Discovery Overnight Camp Counselor

Compensation: $550.00 per week base rate, 10% boost for Spanish speakers

Housing: Yes

Exemption Status: Exempt

Employee Classification:  Temporary, Full-time

Dates of Employment: May 27, 2025 - August 16, 2025

Reporting to: Discovery Overnight Camp Manager

Direct Reports: None

Position Summary

As a Discovery Overnight Camp Counselor at Keystone Science School, you'll lead campers through an unforgettable summer of adventure, exploration, and personal growth. Our Overnight Camp blends hands-on science with classic summer camp traditions like hiking, camping, archery, skits, and songs, creating a dynamic experience for campers in 1st–8th grade. In this role, you'll serve as a mentor, teacher, and role model, fostering a safe, inclusive, and exciting environment where campers can build confidence, teamwork, and outdoor skills. You'll live alongside campers in dorms or our canvas tent village, fully immersing yourself in the camp community.  

Whether you're guiding a challenge hike, mentoring teens in our Counselor Assistant Program, or leading an evening "Candle Chat" reflection, you'll help shape a summer full of learning, growth, and unforgettable memories!

The wage for this position is $550.00 weekly with a 10% increase for those fluent in English and Spanish.

Key Responsibilities

Program Leadership & Camper Experience

• Facilitate and teach camp programs, science activities, and adventure programming.

• Lead and supervise a field group of up to 13 campers during daily activities.

• Guide campers on overnight trips and challenge hikes, ensuring a safe and fun experience.

• Serve as a mentor and role model, fostering teamwork, confidence, and personal growth.

• Lead nightly “Candle Chat” discussions to reflect on the day's experiences.

Camper Supervision & Safety

• Live with campers in dormitories or the canvas tent village, providing round-the-clock support.

• Maintain a safe, inclusive, and positive environment for all campers.

• Follow and enforce risk management policies in all camp activities.

• Support meetings to review rules, guidelines, and expectations for camper living spaces.

Logistics & Operations

• Assist with opening and closing day procedures to ensure smooth transitions.

• Set up and clean up for meals, activities, and overnight camping trips.

• Help pack and prepare gear for overnight adventures.

• Drive a 15-passenger van (for staff 20+ with 4+ years of driving experience).

• Take on additional duties as assigned to support the camp’s success.

Skills 

• Have an interest in, respect for, and ability to work with children.

• Have an interest in, respect for, and ability to work with people with diverse backgrounds.

• Ability to create an inclusive learning environment for campers from a wide range of backgrounds.

• Ability to be creative, adaptable, and flexible while managing children in a variety of situations.

• Strong work ethic and personal motivation.

• Desire to contribute positively to the KSS at-large community.