Job Description
Position: Adventure Coordinator
Responsible To: Camp Director
Classification: Seasonal Staff Member
Camp Location: Trefoil Ranch, Camp Cloud Rim
Job Accountabilities
· This position requires working between multiple camp and off-site locations. Staff must be comfortable transitioning from one camp environment to another and adapting to changing schedules, environments, camper groups, and program needs. A flexible, positive attitude and willingness to embrace new or changing situations are essential.
· As a member of the Camp Leadership Team, work with the Camp Director to plan, develop, and manage safe, high-quality, progressive backpacking and high-adventure programming for campers, including one- to three-night backpacking trips, off-site canoe trips, and off-site whitewater rafting trips.
o Plan, develop, and lead progressive backpacking and high-adventure experiences appropriate to camper age, skill level, and readiness.
o Develop program outlines and trip plans that support skill progression and established program goals.
o Train staff in their responsibilities for backpacking, overnight camping, canoeing, whitewater rafting, and other high-adventure trips during staff training.
o Provide additional training, coaching, and support to staff participating in adventure trips throughout the season.
o Teach and enforce all applicable safety rules and procedures.
o Work with the Camp Director to ensure appropriate staffing and supervision for all trips.
o Successfully complete Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certification training provided at camp and maintain certification throughout the camp season.
· Plan, prepare for, and lead one- to three-night backpacking trips with campers.
o Prepare routes, itineraries, emergency plans, food plans, equipment, and other trip logistics.
o Teach campers and staff backpacking skills including packing, campsite setup, outdoor cooking, navigation, Leave No Trace practices, equipment care, and backcountry safety.
o Assess camper readiness and support campers in building the skills, confidence, and independence necessary for overnight backpacking.
o Ensure backpacking equipment is properly cleaned, stored, repaired, and ready for use.
· Lead and accompany campers on off-site canoe and whitewater rafting trips.
o Work with the Camp Director and outside outfitters or program partners to coordinate trip logistics and prepare campers and staff for each experience.
o Prepare campers for canoeing and rafting experiences through appropriate water safety, equipment, and trip-readiness instruction.
o Complete required out-of-camp paperwork and rosters and ensure appropriate health forms, waivers, releases, emergency information, and other required documentation accompany each trip.
o Ensure necessary equipment, food, transportation, communication devices, first aid supplies, and emergency procedures are in place before departure.
o Act as a lifeguard on canoeing and whitewater rafting trips when required and within the scope of current certifications.
o Provide leadership and supervision throughout off-site trips, including camper management, risk management, overnight camping, and coordination with professional guides or outfitters.
· Understand and implement applicable standards and guidelines established by Girl Scouts of the USA, the American Camp Association, outfitters and program partners, and state and local regulations.
· Conduct and document required safety inspections of backpacking and high-adventure equipment.
· Teach and monitor the proper use, storage, and care of equipment.
· Maintain appropriately stocked first aid and emergency supplies for trips.
· Report and document accidents, incidents, near misses, equipment concerns, and safety issues promptly.
· Monitor weather, environmental conditions, participant readiness, and other factors that may impact trip safety.
· Follow established emergency action and communication procedures during all off-site and backcountry programs.
· Complete weekly and end-of-season reports related to adventure programming.
· When not leading or preparing for adventure trips, actively participate in general camp programming and operations.
o Assist with unit and camp housekeeping, sanitation, and care of supplies and equipment.
o Help with weekly camper check-in and check-out.
o Participate in camp-wide programs, including workshops, all-camp activities, campfires, camper-choice activities, and flag ceremonies.
o Attend and actively participate in staff training, including required Wilderness First Responder training, and end-of-season camp closing.
o Eat meals with campers and assist with supervision and cleanup.
o Perform additional duties as assigned.
· Job duties may be subject to change based on camp activities, operational needs, participant needs, and the needs of Girl Scouts of Utah.
Qualifications
· Must be a certified driver on council’s behalf (clear MVR background, be at least 21 years of age and provide proof of auto insurance and motor vehicle licensing)
· Minimum of 2 years of relevant experience.
· Hold or be willing to obtain Red Cross First Aid & CPR and Wilderness First Aid Certifications. Wilderness First Responder Certification Preferred.
· Hold or be willing to obtain certifications related to specific program areas on the property (High Ropes, Red Cross Waterfront Lifeguarding & First Aid, CPR for the Professional Rescuer, and Small Craft Safety certifications or the equivalent.)
· Possess good organizational, leadership, and teaching skills:
a. Ability to schedule and manage time, resources, and people.
b. Strong decision-making skills while exercising good judgment.
c. Six weeks experience in a management or supervisory role is required (six months is preferred).
· Spanish-English bilingual communication skills are valued but not required.
· Prior Girl Scout experience is preferred but not required.
Qualifications for All Positions at GSU Summer Camp
· Possess or be willing to obtain Red Cross First Aid & CPR Certifications or the equivalent.
· Have or be willing to obtain a Utah Food Handlers’ Permit.
· Capable of following direction from Camp Director, adhere to policies, and follow camp procedures.
· Ability to engage in effective, interactive, two-way communication with campers ages 6–17, including providing clear verbal instructions, actively listening, and responding appropriately to their needs and questions.
· Effectively communicate and engage in interactive, two-way communication with groups of adults, including providing clear verbal instructions, actively listening, and responding appropriately to questions and feedback.
· Ability to observe camper behavior, assess its appropriateness, enforce appropriate safety regulations, and apply appropriate behavior management techniques.
· Respond appropriately in a crisis situation.
· Complete the council required health forms and documentation to ensure the well-being of living and working in an outdoor camp setting.
Physical Requirements
· Must be able to bend down and move, lift, stock, and carry boxes, program materials, and supplies (up to 50 pounds).
· Ability to walk, stand, and work on feet for 12 to 14 hours a day, including walking upwards of 10,000 steps a day on uneven, unpaved, very steep terrain.
· Capable of living and working in a high elevation (up to 9200’) and outdoor setting.
· Have visual/auditory ability to respond to environmental and other hazards related to summer camp activities.
· Hike extended distances over rugged terrain while carrying a backpack and necessary camping equipment.
· Participate in physically demanding outdoor activities, including backpacking, canoeing, whitewater rafting, and overnight camping.
Core Competencies
· Business First Mindset
· Leadership and Stewardship
· Strong Communicator
· Relational Intelligence
· Social Justice and Inclusion (DEI)
· Customer Focused
· Alignment with Girl Scouts of Utah’s Mission
Camp Staff Role in Mission Efforts
· Represent Girl Scouts of Utah positively and professionally in all interactions with campers, families, volunteers, community members, and potential donors.
· Collaborate with staff, volunteers, families, and community partners to support shared goals and positive outcomes.
· Model the values and principles of the Girl Scout Movement, regardless of personal beliefs, by demonstrating respect, integrity, inclusivity, and a commitment to a safe and supportive environment.
· Prioritize the needs of girls, families, and volunteers, ensuring every camper has a meaningful, positive, and mission-centered experience.