Summer Camp Activity Counselor

General Summary: Designs, plans, and implements activities for USM Summer Camp Counselors that support the mission of the University School of Milwaukee. Collaborates with all four camps to ensure groups are prepared, supported, and well-informed about planned activities. Maintains a comprehensive understanding of weekly camp programming to prevent scheduling overlaps and ensure smooth coordination. Provides leadership to Lead and Junior Counselors throughout summer operations, fostering a safe, organized, and enjoyable experience for all campers. The application will include written questions focused on the role that will be used to further conversation within the interview process.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Plan and implement well-rounded, age-appropriate camp activities (including outdoor adventures, arts and crafts, sports, and skill-building activities), design daily schedules, and prepare necessary program supplies.
• Manage, evaluate, and retain seasonal camp counselors, while establishing and enforcing policies and procedures for seasonal staff in line with USM guidelines.
• Manage and organize supply spaces to ensure USM environments remain clean, well-maintained, and stocked with materials that are cared for appropriately.
• Create a system for recording what materials are used, who is using them, and the purpose or activity for which they are utilized.
• Serve as additional leadership support during weekly field trips, ensuring safety, organization, and positive camper experiences.
• Support lunchroom and snack-time operations to ensure a smooth, safe, and positive experience for all students.
• Foster a positive, inclusive camp environment by implementing strategies to manage camper behavior, while staying informed on youth developmental needs.
• Coordinate logistics, facility usage, staffing needs, budgets, and overall operational strategy with the Director of Auxiliary Programs.
• Maintain open communication with the Director of Auxiliary Programs through meetings before and during the camp season to ensure smooth operations.
• Maintain open and consistent communication with head counselors to support smooth camp operations and team coordination.
• Work with Lead and Junior Counselors to ensure daily activities are well-organized and run smoothly.
• Develop and enforce safety, compliance, and risk management procedures in accordance with USM policies and federal, state, and local regulations.
• Serve as an additional lead counselor as needed, actively engaging with campers through participation in and supervision of camp activities
• Complete other tasks as deemed appropriate by administration.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to communicate clear, accurate, and professional information.
• Ability to work collaboratively with others and maintain positive professional relationships by maintaining professionalism, sound judgement, and flexibility under stress, resolving issues effectively, and seeking assistance when necessary.
• High level of maturity, confidentiality, and assertiveness.
• Ability and the desire to work with a diverse population.
• Ability to stay actively engaged in program growth, adapting to frequent changes and addressing complex challenges with proficiency.
• Superior capabilities in preparation, organization, analysis, problem-solving, tact and diplomacy, flexibility, and adherence to schedules.
• Demonstrate creativity, innovation, adaptability, and self-motivation in designing and implementing engaging camp programs.
• Must be able to perform the physical demands of the position, including traveling across a 125-acre campus; lifting up to 30 pounds; and occasionally working in heat and sun with active participation in program events.
• The position requires a valid Wisconsin driver’s license with satisfactory driving record.
• Ability to competently operate technology.
• Must be available and work all dates of camp, including preseason and postseason hours.

Education and Experience:

• High School Diploma, some college coursework preferred
• Proven leadership in a camp, educational, or recreational setting
• Professional experience in designing and operating a program for children
• Experience with parent relations