Lead Summer Camp Counselor

Lead Summer Camp Counselor

Requirements

• Proven experience working with children in camp, education, or youth leadership settings.
• Experience working with diverse populations, including neurodiverse children or children with different physical abilities.
• Knowledge of or interest in environmental science, nature education, or outdoor recreation.
• Excellent leadership, teamwork, and organizational skills.
• Experience leading or mentoring a team, such as junior counselors, interns or volunteers.
• Ability to work outdoors for extended periods in varying terrain and weather conditions.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate effectively with children, parents, and team members.
• Excellent storytelling skills to captivate young audiences and make nature concepts engaging and memorable.
• Strong problem-solving and conflict resolution skills, with a calm and adaptable demeanor.
• Strong understanding of childhood behavioral development and the ability to tailor activities to different developmental stages.
• Familiarity with de-escalation strategies and conflict resolution techniques in a group setting.
• Commitment to and understanding of restorative justice principles in childhood learning and behavior management.
• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain before the start of camp).
• Ability to swim and supervise water-based activities safely.
• Commitment to Audubon’s organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation.
• Demonstrated personal and professional commitment to and experience in advancing equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging.

Responsibilities

• Ensure the safety, well-being, and active participation of all campers.
• Actively supervise campers during all activities, transitions, and lunch/snack times.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and fun environment for campers of all backgrounds and abilities.
• Lead daily outdoor activities, including nature hikes, hands-on science explorations, arts and crafts, and team-building games.
• Develop, adapt and deliver curriculum activities to meet weekly goals and camper needs.
• Facilitate water-based activities, ensuring adherence to safety protocols.
• Incorporate environmental stewardship, conservation, and sustainability themes into camp activities.
• Mentor and guide interns and volunteer counselors, providing clear instructions and support to foster their growth and contribution.
• Work closely with camp staff, interns and volunteers to adapt programming based on camper needs, weather conditions, or unforeseen challenges.
• Collaborate with interns and volunteers to create an inclusive and supportive camp environment.
• Collaborate with Audubon staff, interns and volunteers to ensure that equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging principles are incorporated and followed in all aspects of our work.
• Address camper conflicts or behavioral challenges with patience, empathy, and appropriate strategies.
• Model respectful and positive behavior, setting the tone for an inclusive and welcoming camp culture.
• Maintain a physically and emotionally safe environment.
• Communicate effectively and serve as the primary point of contact for camper families during drop-off and pick-up times, answering questions and providing daily updates.
• Inform the Center Director and Programs Manager of any safety concerns, incidents, or supply needs promptly.
• Assist with set-up and clean-up of daily activities, ensuring materials are well-maintained and organized.
• Conduct headcounts and safety checks throughout the day, especially during transitions and off-site activities.
• Follow and enforce all camp policies, safety guidelines, and emergency procedures.
• Lead nature-based activities such as hikes, hands-on exploration, and team games.
• Share knowledge of local flora, fauna, and ecosystems with campers to encourage curiosity and environmental awareness.
• Use creative, hands-on approaches to teach nature-based concepts in ways that are engaging and age-appropriate.
• Provide feedback to the Programs Manager and Center Director about the program’s successes, challenges, and areas for improvement.
• Document observations or memorable camper experiences to contribute to the program’s growth and storytelling efforts.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree (or coursework) in education, environmental science, outdoor recreation, or a related field.
• Familiarity with Pacific Northwest ecosystems, flora, and fauna.
• Training in risk management and safety practices for outdoor or recreational programs.
• Certification in Wilderness First Aid or Lifeguarding.
• Bilingual or multilingual skills, particularly in Spanish, Somali, or other languages commonly spoken in the Seattle area.
• Creativity and enthusiasm for developing hands-on, nature-based activities that engage young learners.
• Knowledge or training in trauma-informed practices and culturally responsive approaches to education.