Head Counselor - Summer Camp
About The Position
Bank Street Summer Camp uses educational professionals and recreational learning to create developmentally focused programs and experiences that are open to any children entering pre-kindergarten through eighth grade (ages 4 to 13). Each day, campers will participate in specialized activities that explore a range of topics, such as Spanish, theater, or STEAM, led by education professionals. Campers will also swim twice a week and go on weekly field trips. The camp day runs from 8:30 AM – 3:15 PM. As part of Children’s Programs at Bank Street, each camp group is located in its own air-conditioned classroom complete with a variety of developmentally appropriate materials. Campers use the outdoor deck and roof as well as the nearby fields and playgrounds located just half a block away in Riverside Park. Job Summary: Head counselors are responsible for planning daily curriculum, supervising daily activities, and facilitating group management. The Head counselor regulates and maintains supervision of all campers within her or his group at all times and is responsible for communicating with the Unit Head regarding any camper incidents or conflicts. Head counselors are the team leader for staff members in their group, and delegate tasks and provide supervision as needed. Camp will run from June 22-July 31, 2026. Orientation will be held on the following dates and times: Wednesday, June 17 (3:00-5:00 PM) Thursday, June 18 (10:00 AM- 3:00 PM) Saturday, June 20 Classroom Set-up Day (9:00 AM-4:00 PM) Camp staff hours are 8:00 AM- 4:00 PM each day, with a 30-minute unpaid lunch break daily. There may be an option to work at After Camp until 6:00 PM.
Requirements
- Previous experience in a camp or classroom setting is required.
- Must be 21 years of age by the start of camp.
- Must hold certifications in First Aid & CPR or attend training provided by Bank Street Summer Camp.
- Must attend Camp Staff Orientation before camp begins.
- Must complete full Bank Street College of Education background check including fingerprinting and health physical before camp begins.
Nice To Haves
- Previous experience working at Bank Street is preferred.
- Completion or working towards a Masters degree in Education preferred.
Responsibilities
- Responsible for up to 20 campers; supervises counselor team consisting of Assistant, Junior, and Acting Junior Counselors.
- Lead daily before and after camp check-ins with their counselor team.
- Delegate daily tasks to the counselor team.
- Manages group dynamics and mediates conflicts between campers.
- Respond appropriately to minor conflicts, behavioral challenges, and camper needs.
- Plans daily activities and curriculum.
- Organize and oversee daily camp activities and schedules.
- Create lesson/activity plans.
- Create a timely weekly newsletter to share out with families by the end of day on Friday.
- Act as a liaison between campers, staff, and parents as needed.
- Maintains daily communication with the Unit Head.
- Communicates with families in conjunction with the Unit Head.
- Enforce camp rules and maintain discipline when necessary.
- Oversee group transitions in public, including during swim, field trips, and other times outside the building.
- Prioritize camper's safety inside and outside the building.
- Lead campers on public transportation, which may include the subway or bus.
- Maintain accurate records of camper attendance, incidents, and activities.
- Administer basic first aid and coordinate with medical staff if needed.
- Ensure camp facilities remain clean and organized.
