What are the responsibilities and job description for the Program Counselor: Recreation- Army Lake Camp position at The Salvation Army Central Territory?
Get away to Army Lake Camp where we serve a variety of groups (churches, youth groups, public/private schools, and more!) Our mission is to inspire Christ-centered love and commitment while sharing God's word by example and instruction through recreational and educational opportunities. Our philosophy is to communicate the life-changing power of Jesus Christ, help campers develop leadership, responsibility, expression of service and Christian values/integrity, as well as challenge the ability of campers and staff to improve skills, self-esteem and expand their Christian experience all while helping campers develop positive relationships. If these values mean as much to you as they do to us, apply today!
This is a seasonal position (June 7, 2026-August 1, 2026).
The Recreational Counselor are responsible for teaching, leading, and supervising a variety of camp activities while ensuring a safe, fun, and Christ-centered environment. They help campers grow spiritually, physically, and socially by providing engaging instruction, enthusiastic participation, and strong Christian leadership. Program Staff members model The Salvation Army’s mission and values through their service and relationships with campers and fellow staff.
About the role:
- Training & Meetings
- Complete all required pre-camp training to the satisfaction of the Program Manager and Divisional Youth Officers.
- Participate and complete trainings for specialized, sports, and challenge activities.
- Participate in all regularly scheduled staff meetings and assigned evaluations with leadership staff.
- Carry out all Recreation Counselor assignments as directed by the Program Manager.
- Program Leadership
- Teach, lead, and supervise campers in assigned challenge, specialized, and sports activities.
- Ensure all activities are conducted safely, effectively, and in alignment with camp goals.
- Help with setup and cleanup for program areas and activities as assigned.
- Help with the planning and implementation of evening programs, special events, and waterfront operations as needed.
- Support childcare responsibilities when assigned.
- Camper Supervision & Care
- Accept responsibility for the health, safety, and general welfare of all campers under your supervision.
- Supervise and guide campers in all phases of the camping program – spiritual, recreational, and social.
- Take responsibility for camper supervision during all activities, ensuring campers are in their assigned classes, following instructions, and participating safely and respectfully.
- Assist with the management of campers during all program areas, including classes, challenges, sports, and special activities.
- Encourage teamwork, inclusion, and positive interaction among campers.
- Assist with camper check-in and check-out procedures.
- Accompany campers to the health station when needed and report all injuries or illnesses to Health Services.
- Facility Care
- Maintain equipment and facilities, reporting repair or maintenance needs promptly to the Program Manager.
- Help clean and sanitize cabins and shared spaces at the end of each camp session.
- Keep personal living quarters neat and clean at all times.
- Program Participation & Support
- Attend and assist with all camp activities, programs, and ceremonies (including flag-raising and lowering).
- Participate in worship services, staff devotions, and Sunday services held on and off the campgrounds.
- Help maintain and strengthen the spiritual emphasis of the ministry of The Salvation Army – Army Lake Camp.
- Christian Leadership & Conduct
- Maintain a servant attitude and function as part of a unified team.
- Always set a positive Christian example in speech, attitude, and behavior.
- Dedicate personal time each day for devotions and spiritual growth.
- Help maintain and strengthen the spiritual emphasis of the camp’s ministry.
- Perform all other duties as assigned to support the mission and success of the camp.
Education, Experience & Skills Requirements:
- Must be a committed Christian with a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and a desire to lead others in their spiritual growth.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Experience with high-energy, physically demanding activities and demonstrates a willingness and ability to complete Army Lake Camp’s challenge, activity, and sports course training programs.
- Holds current American Red Cross CPR and First Aid certification or is willing to obtain certification through training provided at Army Lake Camp.
- Able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
- Must reside on campgrounds for the duration of employment.
- Demonstrates initiative, dependability, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Exhibits strong attention to detail, a positive attitude, and flexibility in adapting to changing priorities.
- Supports and upholds the mission, philosophy, and objectives of The Salvation Army and Army Lake Camp.
- Displays a genuine passion for ministry and for serving and mentoring youth in a Christ-centered environment.
The Salvation Army is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates who are back-to-work, US Veterans, people with disabilities, people who have been impacted by the justice system, and/or people without a college degree are encouraged to apply.
Qualifications:
Who we are:
Our Mission: The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Our message is based on the Bible. Our ministry is motivated by the love of God. Our mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human need in His name without discrimination.
Why work for us?
The Salvation Army’s brand promises to Do the Most Good® - and it’s our employees that help us get there. At every level, you can have a real impact on your community through the work done inside our walls every day.
We are as impassioned about our employees as we are about our mission to help anyone in need without discrimination. Our culture reflects this quality, which makes our offices a seriously great place to work. Just walk inside our doors and you’ll quickly see that our employees are proud to support programs that make a difference.