Camp Counselor at JCC East Bay

JCC East Bay•Berkeley, CA

1d•$20 - $25•Onsite

About The Position

Camp counselors will engage kids in fun day-to-day programming and activities at camp. They will know each camper by name, and compassionately and thoughtfully resolve camper conflicts. They will work collaboratively with co-counselors and fellow camp staff to ensure that camp runs safely and smoothly. Camp counselors will act as a positive and appropriate role model for fellow staff and campers, and support the goals and spirit of camp at the JCC East Bay. Counselors are responsible for leading a group of campers throughout their day at camp. This includes planning engaging group time activities aligned with the weekly themes, facilitating games during free play time, supporting transitions, and actively participating in field trips and specialist-run activities. Counselors embody the ruach (spirit) of camp - enthusiasm, curiosity, creativity, and a willingness to pitch in to create the magic of camp. Counselors are the engine that makes camp run, and may be asked to jump in to support a variety of tasks!

Requirements

Childcare or equivalent experience with children K-5th.
Must be able to be outside throughout the entirety of the camp day, regardless of weather conditions.
Camp Counselors must be at least 15 years old and rising high school sophomores.
Commitment to the mission of the JCC East Bay and knowledge of or commitment to learning about the Jewish community, values, and traditions.
Excellent communication and organizational skills.
Ability to organize tasks, and develop and implement plans to efficiently meet organizational goals.
Ability to work in a team.
Ability to push/pull and lift/carry objects weighing 50 pounds.
Ability to walk and stand for extended periods of time.
Ability to sit on floors and chairs, and to get up and down quickly.
Ability to bend from knees and waist to help a child.
Ability to maneuver in confined lavatories to aid children with toilet needs.
Ability to respond without delay to the needs of young children.

Responsibilities

Develop program plans and activities that are aligned with the curriculum and incorporate organizational philosophy and overall program vision.
Establish and communicate clear objectives for all camp activities.
Execute programming, including planning, preparation and implementation of developmental programming for children in kindergarten through fifth grade.
Supervise and engage with children in a variety of activities, including structured program time, unstructured free time, and transition time.
Provide active support and supervision for programs being led by contractors and specialists, including full participation in field trip programming.
Follow appropriate safety procedures and off-site protocols.
Mindful and aware of children’s needs to promote growth and foster curiosity.
Support student behavior in the group through a patient and respectful approach, and invoking approved disciplinary action when necessary.
Practice active supervision at all times, including during field trips and at the swimming pool – whether in the water with children, or actively engaged on the side with children in the pool.
Facilitate daily camp set-up and clean-up.
Prepare and serve daily snacks.
Assist with daily walking or bussed field trips to King Pool, Live Oak Park, Cordonices Park, and more.
Act as a positive and appropriate role model for children and fellow staff.
Maintain organization and cleanliness during programming; assist in keeping all spaces organized and operational.
Communicate with administrative team when supplies are needed.
Participate in weekly staff meetings.
Consistent attendance as a camp counselor is required as this role is a critical component in the success of the camp program.
Never be on cell phones while on the job (unless there is an emergency).
Commitment to the mission of the JCC East Bay and knowledge of or commitment to learning about the Jewish community, values, and traditions.
Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging work.
Commitment to anti-bias education.