Summer Camp Program Assistant

The Summer Camp Program Assistant mustlove and embrace not only the camp environment but also the camp philosophythat campers come first, we work as a team, and summer is a time to play,learn, and grow. TheSummer Camp Program Assistant is responsible for mentoring, coaching and assistingthe Lead Counselors, Counselors, and Specialists of our camp program. Theperson in this position will be the first point of contact and support for fourcamper groups consisting of about 20 campers and 3 counselors each, divided bygrade. This is a leadership position that requires maturity and ampleexperience both working with children and peers. The Program Assistant will beexpected to independently resolve staff conflicts, manage camper behavior,provide guidance and teach youth development skills to the counseling staff.The person in this role will also be asked to assist with programmatic events,administrative tasks as needed, and to provide staff coverage in the case ofabsences. This position is supported by the Camp Director who will ensure thatthe Summer Camp Program Assistant is fully equipped to oversee their campergroups.
Workschedule is 37.5 hours per week, M-F 8:30am – 4:00pm, from mid-June – August 16,2024. Pay range:$15.00-$25.75/hour; pay rate based on qualifications.
Applications will continue to be accepteduntil the position is filled.  The most highly qualified candidates will beinvited to one or more interviews and/or other assessments. All applicants will be notified of theirstanding the in the process as soon as a decision has been made regarding theirindividual application.
Appointmentof the final candidate will be contingent upon the results of pre-placementconditions including CORI and SORI checks. Costs of these pre-placement requirements will be borne by the Town.

The Town of Concord, MA is an EEO Employer. We value diversity and welcome candidates of all backgrounds to apply.

Department:Human Services/RecreationSalary Grade:MISC - 2

Report to:Camp DirectorFLSA Status:Non-Exempt

Appointed by:Town ManagerDate:December 2023

GENERAL SUMMARY:Under the guidance of the Camp Director, the Program Assistant will be the first point of contact and support for four camper groups consisting of about 20 campers and 3 counselors each, divided by grade.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

External and internal applicants, as well as position incumbents who are or become disabled as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, must be able to perform the essential job functions (as listed) either unaided or with the assistance of a reasonable accommodation to be determined by management on a case-by-case basis.

• Work in collaboration with the Camp Director to prepare all aspects of the summer camp program prior to the start of the summer, including field trip planning and curriculum building.
• Provide mentorship to all camp staff through the consistent display of a positive attitude, high energy, enthusiasm, effective problem-solving skills, and professionalism.
• Assist in the successful management of the site-specific staff, during the 9-week camp program.
• Fill in for absent counselors or specialists when needed; flexibility to go where needed.
• Communicate effectively and frequently with the Camp Director, giving ample updates and reports on urgent camp concerns: camp behavior, safety, staff concerns, program elements etc.
• Uphold the high standard of excellence set for camp staff and will practice appropriate and professional boundaries with all staff.
• Motivate and inspire the group, teaching skills and giving feedback to improve staff performance.
• Plan and execute staff appreciation and community formation events alongside the Camp Director.
• Implements and adheres to the behavioral management plan for campers; attends parent/director meetings and carries out relevant protocols to ensure a safe camp environment for all.
• Assist with the organization of camp groups and the block schedule, weekly.
• Assist with administrative tasks: scheduling, emails, staff assignments, camper rosters etc.
• Assure that all specialist activities are appropriate, thoughtful and creative. Coach staff on how to improve activities that do not meet the Camp standards.
• Assist the Camp Director in organizing and facilitating staff training.
• Manage the camp’s field trip calendar including confirmation of trips and itinerary.
• Attend and lead all field trips in coordination with the Camp Director.
• Build relationships with campers and staff to foster friendly, supportive and nurturing group dynamics.
• Maintain a practice of stewardship for recreation property including proper accounting and storage of all camp equipment.
• Enforce rules, regulations, and policies to assure safety of all children and staff.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• A desire to work with persons of all ages and abilities in a dynamic outdoor camp environment.
• Competency in youth development philosophies and behavioral management techniques.
• An easy-going, fun-loving personality.
• A desire and ability to work well in teams.
• An “all hands on deck” mentality.
• Confidence and presence in both group and one-on-one settings.
• Ability to solve complex problems, resolve conflicts and manage behavioral challenges.
• A personality and character that exudes leadership, flexibility, trustworthiness, creativity, energy, inspiration and positivity.
• Excellent communication, time management, and organizational skills.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE & SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

Education and Experience

• High School Diploma (or equivalent) required; Minimum of two years’ college coursework preferred.
• Previous camp experience, preferably 1-3 summers.
• Experience leading a group of one’s peers in a demanding, goal-oriented setting.
• Experience teaching or running sports and recreation programs, preferred.

Special Requirements

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• CPR and first aid certified (certification available during staff training).
• Must be available for Staff Training the week before the program begins.
• Must be available for the entire camp season.

WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

External and internal applicants, as well as position incumbents who are or become disabled as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, must be able to perform the physical demands (as listed) either unaided or with the assistance of a reasonable accommodation to be determined by management on a case-by-case basis.

Work is performed primarily outdoors during the summer months. May be subjected to moderate variations of temperature, noise, odors, etc.Work may be performed indoors in a relatively noisy work environment, with constant interruptions.Frequently subjected to the demands of other individuals and the volume and /or rapidity with which tasks must be accomplished.

Must be able to stand and/or walk for extended periods of time.Balancing, crouching, grasping, pulling, reaching and stooping may also be required.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to do this job.The above is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required.The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee, and is subject to change by the employer, as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.