Discovery Overnight Head Counselor

Job Title: Discovery Overnight Camp Head Counselor
Compensation: $600 per week base rate, 5% increase for Spanish speakers
Housing: Yes
Dates of Employment: May 18, 2026 - August 15, 2026
Reporting to: Overnight Camp Manager
Direct Reports: None

Position Summary
As a Head Counselor at Keystone Science School, you’ll be at the heart of creating an unforgettable Discovery Overnight camp experience. You’ll lead daily programming, mentor counselors, and foster a positive, supportive environment while guiding campers in personal growth and daily living skills.

This role demands strong leadership, adaptability, and enthusiasm for an immersive overnight setting. You’ll be responsible for knowing the daily schedule, cabin and tent assignments, and maintaining the overall culture of the program. From leading activities and managing logistics to mentoring staff, you’ll play a key role in shaping a fun, safe, and enriching experience for campers and counselors alike.

Each Head Counselor oversees one overnight area from the following: our dorms ("Henry" or "Bighorn"), our large canvas tent group ("Snake River Village") or our smaller canvas tent group ("CAP Village"), specifically for campers in the Camper Assistant Program (CAPs).

Key Responsibilities
Program Facilitation & Camper Experience

• Facilitate engaging and age-appropriate programming that aligns with KSS curriculum themes.
• Teach daily camp activities, ensuring a fun and educational experience for campers.
• Oversee the health, safety, and well-being of campers in collaboration with Discovery Overnight staff.
• Supervise up to 13 children on overnight camping trips and challenge hikes.
• Run meetings and communicate rules and guidelines for residential life in cabins and tents.

Staff Mentorship & Support

• Mentor, train, and evaluate camp counselors alongside the Discovery Camp Lead and Overnight Camp Programs Manager.
• Provide learning opportunities, constructive feedback, and evaluations for Counselor Assistant Program (CAP) participants.
• Responsible for overnight camping packing sessions with co-counselors.

Logistics & Risk Management

• Assist in operational and logistical tasks, including weekly scheduling and group/cabin assignments.
• Oversee and maintain high standards of health, safety, and risk management in all activities.
• Ensure smooth facilitation of meals, setup/cleanup, transportation, and camper free time.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

CAP Programming

• Oversee CAP participation in programming and leadership responsibilities, such as:
  • Hopping
  • Emceeing the Talent Show
  • Supporting opening campfires and special events
  • Participating in leadership trainings
• Design and lead special CAP programming each session (e.g., CAP Night).
• Meet with each new group of CAPs every Monday before camper check-in to review schedules, expectations, and responsibilities.
• Meet regularly with Discovery Camp Leadership staff to evaluate program success and communicate concerns or highlights.

Skills 

• Have an interest in, respect for, and ability to work with people with diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to create an inclusive learning environment for campers from a wide range of backgrounds.
• Experience with risk management practices of the outdoor and environmental education industry.
• Ability to be creative, adaptable, and flexible while managing children in a variety of situations.
• Experience leading employees and managing administrative tasks in a professional environment.
• Outdoor recreation experience in hiking, camping, backpacking or rock climbing.
• Knowledge of science based curriculum (e.g. forest ecology, geology, biology).
• Desire to contribute positively to the KSS at-large community.

Education, Experience and Certifications

• Current Wilderness First Aid (WFA) and CPR certifications, from an approved vendor, or the ability to obtain before the first day of employment (KSS does offer an on-site WFA course before staff training in May at the expense of the individual).
• Be over the age of 18 by the start date of employment.
• Preferred - Age 20 with an excellent driving record and a valid driver’s license.

Physical Requirements 

• Able to work a majority of the time outside at high altitude in varying conditions including uneven and slick terrain and unpredictable weather and situations. 
• Physically able to assist participants with recreation equipment during activities.
• Able to lift a minimum of 75 lbs. with assistance.
• Dexterity, auditory and visual acuity to operate computers and phones or mobile devices.
• Auditory and visual acuity to interact with guests, students, clients on a daily basis.
• Able to successfully manage multiple, high priority tasks in a fast-paced and often times crowded and noisy environment.

Keystone Science School: Who We Are
Keystone Science School (KSS) ignites curiosity and critical thinking through hands-on, nature-based learning. Nestled at 9,200 feet in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, our 23-acre campus serves as a hub for immersive, inquiry-driven experiences. Since 1976, we have combined outdoor adventure with STEM education, empowering students, teachers, and communities. Our programs—including summer camps, school-based learning, and outdoor education—promote scientific exploration, leadership, and environmental stewardship. With log-style dorms, a dining hall, an outdoor amphitheater, and an observatory, KSS provides an inspiring setting for discovery.

Benefits for Seasonal Staff 
At KSS, our staff are essential to our mission. We are proud to offer rewarding benefits including professional development opportunities and those listed below. 

• Free meals and housing may be provided depending on position.
• Up to 32 paid sick hours. 
• Paid holidays.
• Access to medical, dental, and vision benefits after four months of employment.
• Eligibility for a 401K after 1,000 hours worked annually.
• Sick time, EAP (Employee Assistance Program), and FAMLI (Family and Medical Leave Insurance) are offered.
• Discounts to outdoor retailers and discounted ski pass opportunities.

Work Schedule and Environment
This position primarily operates in a high-altitude outdoor environment. Discovery Overnight Camp runs six days a week, from Monday through Saturday, with Sundays off. Programming occurs both on-campus and in remote off-site locations. Employees will work closely with teammates and campers in this highly collaborative role.

Equal Employment Opportunity
Keystone Science School is committed to building a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community, and we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most talented people from a wide variety of backgrounds. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type, without regard to race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, age, religion, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law. 

Salary : $600