Rock Climbing Camp Counselor

Keystone Science School • Keystone, CO

6d • $550 - $550 • Onsite

About The Position

As a Pathfinders Camp Counselor, you'll lead middle schoolers through exciting weekly themes (Rock, Horse, and Water) while guiding them in rock climbing, paddleboarding, rafting, fly fishing, and horse care. You'll create a fun, safe environment where campers build confidence, teamwork, and outdoor skills. This role is dynamic and hands-on, with most of your time spent leading high-energy adventures and sparking curiosity through environmental science lessons. You'll also manage daily logistics like camper supervision, transportation, and activity setup. From facilitating team-building challenges to driving a 15-passenger van, you'll help make every Pathfinder experience unforgettable!

Requirements

• Ability to work with and create an inclusive environment for diverse campers.
• Experience in risk management for outdoor and environmental education.
• Strong group management skills, especially with youth in outdoor settings.
• Creativity, adaptability, and flexibility in managing children in various situations.
• Outdoor recreation experience (e.g., hiking, camping, backpacking, rock climbing).
• Knowledge of science-based curriculum (e.g., ecology, geology, biology).
• Desire to contribute positively to the KSS community.
• Teach climbing safety, belaying, and basic techniques.
• Manage top rope climbing sites and inspect/maintain climbing gear.
• Tie essential knots and hitches for sport climbing.
• Provide hands-on coaching for campers of all skill levels.
• Lead belay and ensure high safety standards.
• Experience with sport/trad climbing (5.8+), lead climbing (5.9+ preferred).
• Ability to set up/clean top rope climbs and manage institutional climbing.
• Familiarity with rappel safety and basic rescue techniques (e.g., belay transfers).
• Be over the age of 18 by the start date of employment.
• Awareness of outdoor climbing safety practices.
• Experience leading youth in outdoor recreation excursions.
• Familiarity with climbing gear (harnesses, helmets, ropes, belay devices, slings, quickdraws).
• Current First Aid and CPR certifications, from an approved vendor, or the ability to obtain before the first day of employment.
• Able to work a majority of the time outside at high altitude in varying conditions including uneven and slick terrain and unpredictable weather and situations.
• Physically able to assist participants with recreation equipment during activities.
• Able to lift a minimum of 75 lbs. with assistance.
• Dexterity, auditory and visual acuity to operate computers and phones or mobile devices.
• Auditory and visual acuity to interact with guests, students, clients on a daily basis.
• Able to successfully manage multiple, high priority tasks in a fast-paced and often times crowded and noisy environment

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of KSS climbing crags (preferred but not required).
• Professional climbing certifications (e.g., SPI) are a plus.
• Age 20+ with an excellent driving record and a valid driver’s license.
• SPI or other climbing certifications are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Supervise up to 13 campers daily and ensure individual needs are met.
• Lead activities in rock climbing, paddleboarding, fly fishing, and horse care.
• Facilitate environmental science, team building, games, and crafts.
• Teach climbing safety, belaying, and basic techniques.
• Manage top rope climbing sites and ensure proper gear use.
• Provide hands-on coaching and support for campers of all skill levels.
• Maintain high safety standards and follow risk management policies.
• Oversee camper safety, logistics, and risk management.
• Support with the Tuesday day camp sleepover shifts on a rotating basis.
• Assist with meals, setup/cleanup, and student free time.
• Handle check-in/out, take photos, and maintain camp equipment.
• Drive a 15-passenger van (Van Driver Training required)
• Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Free meals and housing may be provided depending on position.
• Up to 32 paid sick hours.
• Paid holidays.
• Access to medical, dental, and vision benefits after four months of employment.
• Sick time, EAP (Employee Assistance Program), and FAMLI (Family and Medical Leave Insurance) are offered.
• Discounts to outdoor retailers and discounted ski pass opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed