Portuguese Summer Camp Junior Counselor

Concordia College • Bemidji, MN

1d • Onsite

About The Position

As a Summer Camp Junior Counselor at Concordia Language Villages, you will gain hands-on experience while helping create an immersive language and cultural experience for young people. Working alongside experienced counselors and staff, you will help lead games, activities, and cultural experiences while supporting a welcoming camp community. The role is intended for high school students ages 16–17 and offers opportunities to develop leadership skills, build friendships, share an interest in language and culture, and gain work experience in a summer camp environment.

This is a seasonal residential position based in Bemidji, Minnesota, during summer 2027. Residential counselors work 14–16 hours per day, may work up to seven days per week, and provide overnight supervision while living in a cabin with villagers and the counseling team. The position pays a minimum of $165 per week.

Requirements

• Completed two years of language study or equivalent, with broad knowledge of the target language’s culture and activities.
• Be at least 16 years old and have completed junior year of high school.
• Be eligible to work in the United States.
• Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills and the ability to model them for younger children.
• Demonstrate maturity and good judgment.
• Enjoy interacting with and managing children.
• Be adaptable in changing situations.
• Be at least 18 years old to be considered for a staff position if not a United States citizen.
• Be able to work in a busy, noisy communal environment, establish appropriate professional relationships, exercise good judgment, and interact effectively across social and cultural differences while maintaining appropriate boundaries.

Nice To Haves

• One year of experience working with children.
• Previous attendance at Concordia Language Villages or another summer camp.

Responsibilities

• Speak the target language with children (“villagers”) and other staff members as much as possible.
• Co-teach language through activities such as art, sports, and traditional culture, with assistance from other staff members.
• Co-lead games, Cabin Council, and other activities to create a cabin community.
• Participate in Village life, including meals, song times, evening programs, cultural presentations, and staff meetings.
• Live in a cabin with villagers and the counseling team to provide overnight supervision.
• Assist with light cleaning of the Village site, including cabins, bathrooms, and activity areas, to help maintain a safe, hygienic space.
• Serve as a positive role model for desired behaviors among villagers, including use of the target language.
• Follow applicable personnel policies and the responsibilities for the assigned area.
• Attend orientation before the first session and assist with setting up, maintaining, and preparing the Village for sessions.
• Model appropriate behavior and be attentive to villagers’ health and welfare.
• Remain one day after the final session for cleanup, inventory, and program evaluation.

Benefits

• Housing provided during residential employment.
• Meals provided during residential employment.
• Paid training and orientation.
• Applicable tuition discounts for children attending Concordia Language Villages.
• Opportunities for professional development, intercultural learning, and language immersion.
• J-1 Exchange Visitor visa sponsorship for eligible international applicants.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED