Returners 2027

Summer Discovery • Washington, DC

3d • Onsite

About The Position

As a Returning Resident Counselor (RC), you will draw on your previous Summer Discovery experience to help deliver a successful summer program. You will support students, strengthen campus communities, and contribute to effective campus operations, bringing increased confidence, initiative, and familiarity with program expectations while continuing to develop leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. The role offers opportunities to take greater ownership of your work, apply lessons from previous summers, and collaborate with a team to provide meaningful experiences for students from around the world.

You must live on campus throughout the assigned program; campus placement depends on operational needs and availability, and previous placements are not guaranteed. You must complete required virtual orientation and attend paid in-person training beginning five days before students arrive. Hours vary and include evenings, weekends, late-night supervision, and assigned on-call coverage. Flexibility is required as program needs evolve.

The role involves frequent walking, standing, and movement around campus and during excursions. Residential accommodations may be shared, and some living or working spaces may not have air conditioning. Employment is contingent upon satisfactory completion of a background check and all applicable hiring requirements. Summer Discovery is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion; reasonable accommodations are available upon request.

Requirements

• Previous employment as a Resident Counselor with Summer Discovery.
• Must be at least 20 years old by the start of the program (21 for certain locations).
• Currently pursuing or have completed a four-year university degree.
• Ability to reside on campus for the entire assigned program.
• Demonstrated understanding of student supervision, residential operations, and program expectations.
• Strong communication, teamwork, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, take initiative, and adapt to changing priorities.
• Must complete required virtual orientation and attend paid in-person training beginning five days before student arrival.
• Flexibility to work variable hours, including evenings, weekends, late-night supervision, and assigned on-call coverage.
• Satisfactory completion of a background check and all applicable hiring requirements.

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated leadership and positive performance during previous Summer Discovery assignments.
• Experience supporting or mentoring fellow staff members.
• Valid driver's license.
• Current First Aid/CPR certification.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a positive role model and trusted resource for students navigating academic and residential life.
• Foster an inclusive, welcoming environment that encourages independence, friendships, and personal growth.
• Support students through everyday challenges, interpersonal conflicts, and transitions.
• Maintain consistent residential routines and encourage student engagement in campus life.
• Plan, coordinate, and supervise after-class activities, weekend programming, campus events, and excursions.
• Support daily schedules, student transitions, and residential operations.
• Complete assigned office, residence hall, evening, and on-call responsibilities.
• Anticipate operational needs, communicate challenges, and contribute to effective solutions.
• Apply knowledge from previous summers to support smooth program operations.
• Help new team members become familiar with campus routines, expectations, and program procedures.
• Demonstrate initiative, accountability, adaptability, and sound judgment in daily responsibilities.
• Collaborate with campus leadership and fellow RCs to maintain a consistent, high-quality student experience.
• Share constructive feedback and contribute ideas for improving program delivery.
• Actively supervise students in residence halls, throughout campus, and during off-campus activities.
• Consistently enforce program policies, including attendance, curfew, student conduct, and prohibited substances.
• Maintain appropriate professional boundaries and protect student confidentiality.
• Identify and respond promptly to student concerns, following established reporting and emergency procedures.
• Coordinate with campus leadership and medical personnel when additional student support is required.
• Accurately document incidents and communicate important updates to ensure continuity of care and supervision.

Benefits

• Paid in-person training.
• Opportunities to build on previous experience and take greater ownership of program responsibilities.
• Continued professional development in leadership, student engagement, and program operations.
• Experience working within a collaborative, international team on leading university campuses.
• Opportunities to strengthen professional relationships and transferable career skills.
• The chance to contribute to another summer of meaningful academic and personal growth for students.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level