What are the responsibilities and job description for the 4-H Residential Summer Camp Counselor position at Kentucky State University?
TITLE: 4-H Residential Summer Camp Counselor
DEPARTMENT: Cooperative Extension
REPORTS TO: 4-H Program Leader
CLASSIFICATION: Staff-Temporary
EFFECTIVE DATE: June 8, 2026 – June 27, 2026
LOCATION: On-Site-Main Campus
EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Temporary
EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Stipend
JOB SUMMARY:
4-H Residential Camp Counselors for summer camp programming are employed by KSU to serve as on-site, residential program staff throughout the duration of the camp. Staff serve as campus guides, role models, chaperones, mentors, and assistant teachers, while ensuring the safety, supervision, and overall well-being of all program participants in both academic and residential settings.
This position will be for the 4-H Youth Innovators Empowering Agriculture – Research and Extension Apprenticeship Program (YEA-REAP). This immersive one-week summer camp is designed especially for high school students who are curious about agriculture, science, and the many career pathways that shape our food systems and communities. This residential summer camp is scheduled to take place from June 21, 2026 – June 27, 2026.
This position is responsible for the supervision, safety, and engagement of program participants across all aspects of the summer camp programming, including academic programming, residentially life, and emergency response.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
Participant Supervision & Safety
- Provide continuous supervision of program participants (24/7 coverage across assigned shifts)
- Ensure a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all participants
- Accompany participants at all times unless otherwise directed by the Program Director
- Conduct head counts during all transitions, including campus movement and field trips
- Respond to and assist in emergency situations as part of the program’s response team
Residential Life & Overnight Supervision
- Monitor assigned residence halls during designated hours, including overnight shifts
- Lead and support morning and evening routines
- Oversee participant accountability, including sign-in/out procedures
- Assist with medication administration and maintain accurate medication logs (as assigned)
- Provide immediate support to participants during residential hours
Behavior Management & Youth Development
- Enforce the Code of Conduct and Conflict Resolution Plan
- Address and manage discipline issues appropriately and consistently
- Facilitate positive group dynamics and behavior management strategies
- Serve as a mentor and role model, supporting positive youth development
Program Implementation & Support
- Assist with delivery of educational sessions, workshops, and program activities
- Support student teams/groups and encourage engagement in program content
- Ensure participants arrive on time and prepared for all scheduled activities
Communication & Documentation
- Maintain clear and timely communication with Program Director and program staff
- Complete and submit all required documentation, including:
- Daily Reports
- Incident Reports
- Medication Logs (as assigned)
- Sign-In/Out Forms
- Contribute to daily program updates and reporting processes
- Collaborate with team members to ensure smooth program operations
- Maintain communication systems between staff as needed
- Attend and actively participate in required trainings, including:
- CPR and First Aid
- Program Orientation
- Subject Matter Training
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to manage and resolve conflicts among adolescents
- Ability to adapt to changing schedules and environments
- Leadership, teamwork, and youth engagement skills
- Commitment to positive youth development principles
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:
This position does have supervisory responsibility.
OTHER DUTIES:
- Other related duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Experience working with youth in group settings (20 participants preferred)
- Experience in residential or camp setting preferred
- Background in education, engineering, youth development or related field encouraged
- All candidates must successfully complete a criminal background check.
Licensing and Certifications:
None
WORKING CONDITIONS:
- Frequent outdoor and physically active programming
- Ability to work extended hours, including overnight shifts
Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States. At this time, Kentucky State University is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa
Internal candidates are encouraged to apply.
KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY is an Equal Opportunity Employer
The functions, qualifications, knowledge/skills, and physical requirements listed in this job description represent the essential duties of the job, which the incumbent must be able to perform either with or without reasonable accommodation. The Job Functions listed do not necessarily include all activities that the individual may perform.