Sr Camp Counselor - Maple Ridge - Canada Summer Jobs (1 position)

The British Columbia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BC SPCA)•Maple Ridge, BC

2d•Onsite

About The Position

At BC SPCA summer camps, the Senior Camp Counsellor will lead a team of Camp Counsellors in delivering fun, inclusive and educational day camps at a designated BC SPCA location. Reporting to the Regional Humane Educator, the Senior Camp Counsellor will use approved materials developed by the Humane Education team to plan and prepare camp days. They will support their team in leading groups of campers (ages six to 14) in immersive learning about animal care and welfare issues for animals, including companion, farm and wildlife, and the environment. The Senior Camp Counsellor may also lead online camps as required.

Requirements

High School Diploma or equivalent
Valid emergency first aid certificate
Enthusiasm for working with kids and animals
Excellent leadership qualities and instincts
Demonstrated experience in teamwork with a teachable spirit
Energetic, innovative and enthusiastic, with a passion for making a difference
Patient, positive and hardworking
Ability to communicate with a diverse audience in a respectful way; able to address conflict in a constructive and professional manner
Physical ability to lift up to 25 lbs, push, pull and participate in outdoor field games
Excellent verbal communication skills
Excellent organizational skills
Must be willing to complete a criminal record check with vulnerable sector check
Must be legally entitled to work in Canada
Must be between 15-30 years of age at the start of employment and looking for career-related experience (Canada Summer Jobs requirement)
Must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person to whom refugee protection has been conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act for the duration of the employment (Canada Summer Jobs requirement)
Must have a valid Social Insurance Number at the start of employment and be legally entitled to work in Canada (Canada Summer Jobs requirement)

Nice To Haves

Experience working with children of diverse learning and behavioural needs
Experience with animals
Familiarity with creating digital content
Commitment to principles of equity, diversity and reconciliation
Philosophical harmony with the vision, mission, and strategic directions of the BC SPCA

Responsibilities

Using approved activities, work with the Regional Humane Educator and/or Animal Centre Manager to structure camp weeks and plan and prepare for each day.
Lead team of Camp Counsellors in delivering summer camp programs, including but not limited to: Assigning responsibilities; Supporting camp staff in creating positive camp experience for youth; Providing in the moment/daily feedback to Camp Counsellors; and Advancing any escalated performance issues to Regional Humane Educator and/or Animal Centre Manager.
Oversee teen volunteer counsellors throughout the summer (if applicable).
Ensure safe, clean and secure activity space and campers.
Provide a fun and inclusive environment for youth.
Respond to camper behaviour issues and conflicts.
Communicate with parents to address their questions/concerns; communicate with parents as needed to address issues that arise with their child at camp, and work together to find solutions.
Gain a general understanding of BC SPCA policies and positions on animal welfare issues.
Gain a basic understanding of animal care and stress signals and the ability to monitor shelter animals for signs of stress when interacting with campers.
Maintain open communication with shelter staff/management; consult shelter staff on appropriate animals for camper engagement.
Evaluate the effectiveness of activities and suggest improvements to the Regional Humane Educator.