Summer Camp Youth Development Specialist

Description

WELCOME TO CAMP MENDOCINO!

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

A Youth Development Specialist (Camp Counselor) works closely with a small team to supervise a group of up to 40 youth. Ensures a fun, safe, and positive camp experience for campers. A Camp Counselor manages behavior issues and participates in all Camp activities, runs some activities whilst always promoting positive character development.

Key Responsibilities

• Responsible for participation of small groups of youth in assigned activities
• Ensure youth engage in appropriately in all Camp activities 
• Provide emotional support and guidance to campers
• Ensure campers’ medical needs are met through monitoring, and utilizing onsite infirmary staff
• Foster 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
• Supervise youth at all times including overnight in a cabin with approximately 5 campers
• Engage campers with positivity, including participating in all activities, overnight hikes, and other activities such as swimming, arts & crafts, archery, biking, hiking, gardening, environmental education, and challenge course elements 
• Lead & plan traditional Camp activities, including but not limited to: arts & crafts, archery, hiking, environmental education, and sports. 
• Foster character development consistent with BGCSF philosophy 
• Other duties as specified by direct supervisor

Requirements

Required Skills

• Previous experience in supervising and developing youth 
• Experience working with youth
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with coworkers and campers
• Ability to handle difficult or stressful situations in a professional manner
• Excellent communication skills
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision

Preferred Skills

• Minimum of 2 years experience working with youth
• Experience working with youth in an overnight camp setting
• Experience working with youth from disadvantaged circumstances

By the end of the summer and incredible Camp Counselor will:

• Help build a safe & positive environment
• Create opportunities for fun & belonging for all campers 
• Establish supportive relationships with campers and adult staff
• Encourage a sense of belonging, usefulness, influence, confidence in campers

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 be 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 9  - 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. 

Lodging 

• Lodging is provided for all staff on site. Camp Counselors will sleep on bunk beds in   open-air cabins while supervising youth overnight.

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 c