What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lifeguard/Camp Counselor: Live In Austin for Spring Break! Housing & Meals Provided position at Austin Sunshine Camps?
About Austin Sunshine Camps (ASC):
The mission of ASC is to provide the magic of overnight camp without the barrier of cost. We envision a world where all children have a place to grow, connect and explore. Since 1928, ASC has provided free, fun-filled overnight summer camp programs for children by partnering with families who face barriers to accessing such programs.
ASC’s Overnight Summer Camp is our flagship program and is accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA), which represents the industry’s highest standard. Each summer, we provide four sessions of overnight summer camp to 500-600 children ages eight to 15. Our eight to 11-year-olds attend our Zilker Camp in Zilker Park and our 12 to 15-year-olds attend our Lake Travis Camp in Marble Falls. For 10 days and nine nights, they swim, canoe, hike, learn new skills, create crafts, make music, and much more.
During the school year, we engage with our camper families, providing a variety of programming and events that allow them to feel a part of the larger ASC family as well. By deepening the relationship with our campers’ families throughout the year, we significantly increase the likelihood that campers will return year-after-year, increasing the opportunity to create lasting impact on the child’s life, education, and future career.
The Commitment:
Camp runs March 14, 2027- March 20, 2027. This is an immersive, overnight experience where you’ll be the heart of your cabin's world. Note that staff members live on-site.
- Paid Training & Support: Paid Staff Training will take place : March 5-7
- Pro-Tip for Students: You can use your experience at ASC for college internship credit while still receiving your seasonal pay.
Our Locations
- Lake Travis (Ages 12-15): A classic hill country setup in the Turkey Bend Recreation Area. Think lake swimming, high ropes courses, and sunset sports.
- Zilker Lodge (Ages 8-11): Located in the heart of central Austin. You’ll spend your days canoeing Lady Bird Lake, hiking the Greenbelt, and exploring Zilker Park.
About this position:
Camper Mentorship & Well-Being:
- Relationship Building: Foster a culture of caring and belonging within your cabin.
- Emotional Support: Help campers build emotional regulation skills and resolve conflicts using restorative practices.
- Trauma-Informed Care: Support campers in processing difficulties and developing resilience.
- Empowerment: Provide campers with intentional freedom and choices to build their confidence.
Program Leadership & Logistics:
- Activity Facilitation: Lead or support daily activities, programs, and large-scale camp events.
- Cabin Planning: Create and implement engaging downtime activities and bedtime routines.
- Daily Operations: Follow assigned schedules and manage cabin logistics, including camper mail.
Safety & Supervision:
- Active Supervision: Maintain constant supervision of campers in all areas, including overnight.
- Accountability: Conduct routine headcounts and maintain an accurate camper roster.
- Health & Safety: Adhere to ASC policies, health department regulations, and American Camp Association standards.
- Reporting: Complete behavior and incident reports as needed.
Requirements:
Eligibility: Must be 18 years or older with a High School Diploma or GED.
Mission-Driven: A genuine passion for empowering youth and creating a positive impact on the Austin community.
Skills: Strong communication, interpersonal, and leadership abilities.
Personal Attributes: High energy, positivity, flexibility, and the resilience to handle long hours and challenging situations.
Experience (Preferred): At least 1 year of experience in camp, youth development, or outdoor programming.
Ability to pass a national criminal background check and attend and pass a nationally recognized Waterfront Lifeguard training course.
Compensation & Benefits
Spring Break Camp Session:
- First time ASC lifeguards receive $607.68 for the camp session additional paid training
- Returning lifeguards receive $653.84 for the camp session additional paid training
Full Room & Board: Free lodging and all meals/snacks provided while camp is in session.
Professional Growth: Opportunity to earn college internship credit while being paid.
Impact: A camp session of personal growth and the chance to make a lifelong difference in the lives of a diverse group of campers.