Substitute Summer Camp Counselor, Northern California

Company Description

Galileo is a nationally recognized summer day camp dedicated to empowering young innovators to change the world! Since 2002, we’ve inspired hundreds of thousands of kids across 70+ diverse communities, becoming a leader in the Innovation Education Movement. At Galileo, innovation, purpose, and personal growth come together to create an environment where your unique talents shine, and your impact is celebrated. 

We’re committed to fostering a culture that champions inclusion for all, continually innovating to ensure every voice is heard. We have been named one of the Best and Brightest Companies to Work for in the Nation four times, including in 2024, and we’ve made the Best Places to Work in the Bay Area list over 12 times.

Come join us for a joy-filled summer in a mission-driven environment where you'll be part of something truly special!

Job Description

As a Substitute Summer Camp Counselor, you’ll provide critical support to Galileo campers and teams when camp staff are absent. 

You will be an essential presence for each camper, guiding them through an impactful, safe, and engaging summer experience. Staying with the same group throughout their daily rotations, you’ll create a supportive environment that prioritizes both physical and emotional safety. This is a seasonal role; Substitute Summer Instructors work varied schedules up to full-time. 

Core Responsibilities

Lead and Supervise Campers: 

• Supervise groups of 15+ campers weekly, creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging camp experience.

• Foster group connection through team activities, games, and daily interactions.

• Ensure a positive, supportive environment, manage camper behavior through restorative practices, and provide individual support based on campers' diverse needs.

• Collaborated with instructors to deliver Galileo’s innovative, project-based curriculum, integrating science, technology, engineering, and math.

• Support instructors by preparing materials and ensuring learning spaces are ready for each activity.

• Support and participate in extended care programming before and after standard camp hours.

Engage Fully in All Camp Activities:

• Be flexible and available to work at selected camp locations with limited notice.

• Lead campers during ceremonies, activities, snack, and lunch, ensuring safety and a positive camp spirit.

• Lead and participate in camp songs, chants, and skits, bringing energy to opening and closing ceremonies.

• Bring your unique skills and energy to create a joyful camp experience.

Provide Exceptional Customer Service:

• Jump in to support each camp based on the unique needs of the day!

• Greet campers and families warmly, ensuring a positive, safe environment.

• Assist with check-in/check-out, manage daily attendance, and communicate with families as needed.

• Foster a fun, energetic atmosphere throughout the day, creating a smooth transition for campers at drop-off and pick-up.

Build Your Skills with Ongoing Training and Support!

• Complete paid online training on innovation education, Galileo policies, and best practices before camp starts.

• Attend two in-person setup and training days to prepare your camp and meet your team.

• Continue to refine your instructional skills through feedback and training.

Work Schedule

All camps operate Monday - Friday. Staff are also required to attend two pre-camp set-up days, which may be scheduled for the Saturday & Sunday before camp opens. Shifts vary by position and location and can start as early as 7:00 a.m. and end as late as 6:00 p.m.

This role does not have a set schedule, as shifts are assigned based on the camp staff coverage needs throughout the summer. When possible, we will provide 24-hour notice for scheduling, but substitutes should expect to be contacted to work the same day when needed. 

Pay 

Your exact pay will be determined based on a variety of factors, including work-site location and tenure. Our pay practices are guided by a commitment to equity and informed by market benchmarking and internal audits to minimize bias and ensure fairness across all roles.

• Pay for this position ranges from $17.25 - $21.00, based on your work locations.

Perks

• One free week of camp for your own child!

• %15 Friends and Family Discount

• Priority scholarship nominations

• Membership in the Galileo Alumni Community of over 20,000 inspiring changemakers!

Qualifications

• Experience superv