What are the responsibilities and job description for the Sleepaway Camp Counselor position at Girl Scouts of Connecticut?
Position Summary
The Sleep Away Counselor supports the Girl Scouts of Connecticut's mission by creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging experience for all campers. Working under the supervision of the Unit Leader, the Counselor provides direct care to campers, assists in coordinating unit activities, and delivers age-appropriate Girl Scout program experiences. This position ensures all activities align with State Licensing Regulations, ACA Standards, GSOFCT Policies, and Girl Scout Safety Activity Checkpoints.
Essential Responsibilities
Camper Supervision & Engagement
All staff are expected to promote and support the Girl Scout Mission: "Girl Scouting builds girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place."
The Sleep Away Counselor supports the Girl Scouts of Connecticut's mission by creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging experience for all campers. Working under the supervision of the Unit Leader, the Counselor provides direct care to campers, assists in coordinating unit activities, and delivers age-appropriate Girl Scout program experiences. This position ensures all activities align with State Licensing Regulations, ACA Standards, GSOFCT Policies, and Girl Scout Safety Activity Checkpoints.
Essential Responsibilities
Camper Supervision & Engagement
- Supervise and care for an assigned group of campers at all times.
- Live in platform tents/cabins with campers (required of all counselors).
- Build positive relationships, support camper well-being, and foster a welcoming, girl-led unit culture.
- Encourage camper planning and participation in program activities using the Girl Scout Leadership Experience (GSLE).
- Assist the Unit Leader in planning and coordinating unit programs and daily schedules.
- Help deliver age-appropriate activities that support camp themes and Girl Scout outcomes.
- Participate in all-camp programs, special events, and camp traditions.
- Maintain safety standards for campers, unit staff, and self in accordance with ACA, state regulations, and Safety Activity Checkpoints.
- Report accidents and complete incident/behavior reports promptly and accurately.
- Ensure the living unit and program areas are clean, safe, and well-maintained.
- Work cooperatively with the Unit Leader and unit staff to assign duties and support daily unit operations.
- Communicate effectively with Unit Leader regarding camper needs, concerns, and behavior.
- Participate in all staff meetings, debriefs, and required trainings.
- Report facility or equipment repairs to the Unit Leader or camp administration.
- Participate in daily camp routines including meals, flag ceremonies, kapers, cookouts, and arrival/departure days.
- Support opening and closing procedures for the camp season.
- Fulfill assigned evening and overnight duties.
- Maintain professional camper/staff boundaries and contribute to a positive camp culture.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
- Must be 18 years of age or older.
- Ability to work effectively with diverse campers and staff in an inclusive environment.
- Strong communication skills and enthusiasm for working with youth.
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., navigate uneven terrain, and work in varying outdoor conditions.
- Willingness to live and work in a rustic outdoor environment with limited modern conveniences.
- Experience working with children and supporting outdoor program delivery preferred.
- Desire to work with youth for extended periods in all weather conditions.
- Current First Aid/CPR/AED certification preferred, or willingness to obtain upon hire.
- Room and board provided and required as a condition of employment.
All staff are expected to promote and support the Girl Scout Mission: "Girl Scouting builds girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place."
