Counselor - Southold, NY

Cornell Cooperative Extension•New York, NY

2d•$4,500 - $7,800

About The Position

The Counselor provides leadership and guidance to a group of 4-H summer campers and participates in general camp program planning. Under the supervision of Camp Program Directors, the Counselor plans and conducts programs in a specific program area, assists with program and camp-wide activities, interprets safety and health regulations, and participates in scheduled staff meetings and training events. The role includes developing, delivering, and evaluating educational and recreational activities; supervising campers and their daily routines; enforcing camp rules; and maintaining health and safety standards. The Counselor also supports camper needs and problem-solving, assists with health records and incident documentation, prepares activity spaces and materials, maintains equipment and supplies, and helps with camper drop-off and pick-up. The position is seasonal and temporary, scheduled from June 15, 2027, through August 23, 2027. Salary is $4,500–$7,800 per season.

Requirements

Experience working with children.
Ability to lead at least one program activity suitable for camp leadership.
Emotional maturity, good health, and vitality.
Ability to work cooperatively with campers and other staff members.
Willingness to learn.
Must be at least 17 years old to comply with New York State Department of Health regulations.
Ability to meet travel requirements associated with the position.
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as appropriate.

Nice To Haves

One year of college and coursework in education, physical education, outdoor recreation, youth development, or a related field.
One or more years of experience as a camp counselor.
First Aid/CPR certification.

Responsibilities

Help develop educational and recreational program activities with the Program Director and suggest new activities and resources.
Lead, teach, and deliver educational and recreational camp activities, using established materials and appropriate educational methods.
Evaluate campers’ abilities and skills, assess program activities, consult with the Program Director about adjustments, and prepare written evaluation reports as directed.
Supervise assigned campers to ensure their safety, enforce camp rules, maintain health and safety standards, and monitor camper needs and behavior.
For sleep-away camp counselors, supervise daily routines including wake-up, chores, meals, hygiene, rest, and bedtime.
Recognize and respond to problems; discuss camper needs with the Camp Director and parents as appropriate; assist with camper personal and health problems; and facilitate problem-solving and conflict mediation.
Support other counselors and help foster a cohesive, respectful camp community while modeling appropriate conduct and healthy habits.
Instruct campers on emergency procedures, explain camp and cabin rules and activity safety procedures, take attendance, and immediately report unaccounted-for campers to a supervisor.
Report hazards and unsafe conditions; coordinate and assist with required camper health records; document incidents and concerns; and complete reports and maintain records as directed.
Determine equipment and supply needs, prepare spaces and materials for activities, maintain a clean and orderly program space, and keep program equipment safe and supply inventories current.
Assist with weekly overnight- and day-camp drop-off and pick-up, including parking duties and health check-ins; answer parent questions during drop-off and pick-up.
Prepare for and participate in staff training and meetings, and pursue professional development with the Supervisor and Executive Director.
Follow applicable regulations and Association health and safety requirements, proactively prevent accidents and injuries, and communicate hazards to supervisors.
Collaborate in activities that support Cornell Cooperative Extension and perform other duties as assigned.