Summer Camp - Head Counselor

The Head Counselor serves as a key leader and mentor within Camp by the Bay, supporting adult counselors, supervising daily camp operations, and helping ensure an outstanding camper experience. This role is responsible for coaching and guiding counselors on best practices in classroom management, camper engagement, and positive camp culture, while also serving as the first point of contact for day-to-day camper and program needs.

Position Description Responsibilities:

• Camp by the Bay runs from June 15 to July 24, with a mandatory camp administration orientation from June 8 to June 12. There will be no camp on June 19 and July 3. Primary daily work hours for this position are 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Applicants who are not available for the full camp period are still encouraged to apply; however, preference will be given to applicants who are able to work the entire session.
• Serve as a mentor and coach to counselors (primarily college students and teachers), helping them develop strong skills in classroom management, camper engagement, and leadership, respectful communication, age-appropriate behavior management, and enthusiastic camper engagement.
• Model high-energy, positive, and professional behavior that reflects the values and culture of Camp by the Bay.
• Provide daily support, coaching, and guidance to counselors in creating fun, structured, and developmentally appropriate camper experiences, while actively reinforcing expectations for positive, patient, and professional interactions with children.
• Observe counselor performance throughout the day and proactively address concerns such as lack of engagement, excessive phone use, negative tone, raised voices, or inconsistent supervision.
• Hold counselors accountable to camp standards of professionalism, safety, and positivity, partnering with camp directors as needed to address ongoing performance concerns.
• Help counselors develop strategies to remain calm, supportive, and encouraging, especially during challenging moments with campers.
• Act as the primary first point of contact for counselors when challenges arise, including camper behavior concerns, minor conflicts, lost items, illness, homesickness, or other routine needs.
• Assist counselors in problem-solving situations with campers and help de-escalate issues in a calm, supportive manner.
• Observe counselors throughout the day and provide constructive feedback, encouragement, and on-the-spot coaching.
• Support daily schedules, transitions, and camp logistics to ensure smooth operations.
• Help facilitate House System events, special activities, and all-camp programs
• Communicate regularly with camp leadership regarding counselor performance, camper needs, and overall program quality.
• Foster an inclusive, safe, and enthusiastic camp environment where both campers and staff can thrive.

Desired Qualifications

• Significant experience working with children in a camp, school, or youth program setting.
• Previous leadership, supervisory, or mentoring experience with young adults strongly preferred.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to coach, motivate, and support others.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to remain calm, organized, and positive in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated ability to manage groups of children effectively and handle minor behavioral or logistical issues confidently.
• Energetic, patient, approachable, and passionate about helping both campers and counselors succeed.
• Elementary or middle school teachers, graduate students, education professionals, or experienced camp leaders are especially encouraged to apply.

Performance Factors

Attendance and Dependability: The employee can be depended on to report to work at the scheduled time and is seldom absent from work. Employee can be depended upon to complete work in a timely, accurate, and thorough manner and is conscientious about assignments.

Communication and Contact: The employee communicates effectively both verbally and in writing with superiors, colleagues, and individuals inside and outside the School.

Relationships with Others: The employee works effectively and relates well with others, including superiors, colleagues, and individuals inside and outside of the School. The employee exhibits a professional manner in dealing with others and works to maintain constructive working relationships.