Job Description
Position: Split-Camp Unit Counselor
Responsible To: Assistant Camp Director
Classification: Seasonal Staff Member
Camp Location: Camp Cloud Rim and Trefoil Ranch (This position will start the season at Trefoil Ranch then transition to Camp Cloud Rim on July 11th)
Job Purpose
This position plays a key role in upholding the mission of Girl Scouts of Utah by modeling respect, integrity, and service, prioritizing camper well-being, and contributing to a collaborative, camp-wide culture. When not assisting with camp counselor duties, the Split-Camp Counselor supports general camp operations, demonstrating flexibility, teamwork, and a readiness to assist wherever needed to provide a memorable and meaningful camp experience for all.
Job Accountabilities
- This position requires working between multiple camp 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.
- Work with fellow counselors under the direction of the Assistant Camp Director to plan and provide quality Girl Scout program to a unit of campers.
o Get to know the campers in the unit and help them learn to respect the rights of others and to understand the differences and similarities of other campers.
o Assist in writing program outlines and lesson plans that allow for progression of activities and accomplish specific program goals.
o Teach workshops, activities, games, songs, and projects to campers.
o Guide activities and experiences through camper planning, group decision-making, and leadership in the camp unit.
o Request necessary materials and assist with their preparation, organization, and storage.
o Assist program counselors with specialty programming including waterfront, arts, biking, rafting, climbing, challenge course, and/or horse care.
- Be responsible for camper care and supervision twenty-four hours a day (including nighttime).
o Help resolve camper problems and conflicts, including missing home.
o Ensure campers have sufficient activities and supervision at all times (stay with unit of campers at all times excluding time off).
o Assist campers in keeping units and other camp areas clean.
o Eat meals with the campers and supervise clean-up after meals.
o Monitor and assist campers with their basic health and hygiene including: drinking water, eating, putting on sunscreen and lip balm, wearing appropriate clothing for the weather, brushing their own hair and teeth, showering, toileting, and changing clothing. Address issues with campers or Health Supervisor as needed.
- Assist with basic camp operation procedures.
o Assist with unit and camp housekeeping, sanitation, and care of supplies and equipment.
o Help with weekly camper check in/out.
o Support with camp-wide programs including workshops, all camps, campfire programs, camper’s choice activities, and flag ceremonies.
o Assist in keeping records and making reports as needed.
o Attend and participate in staff training and the closing of camp.
- Help with kitchen duties as needed including meal preparation and clean-up for up to one week in duration.
- Understand and implement safety guidelines and standards as outlined by Girl Scouts of the USA, the American Camp Association, and any state and local codes.
- Perform additional duties as assigned.
- Job duties may be subject to change pursuant to the activities of the camp, camp needs, and the organization as a whole.
Qualifications
- Be a minimum of 18 years of age.
- 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.)
- 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.
- 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.)
- Capable of following directions from Team Leaders, adhering to policies, and following 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 up to 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.
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.