Camp Counselor - Kamp Kairphree

Kamp Kairphree, a co-ed day camp for children ages 5 to 12 operating out of the Cohen Eastern Greenwich Civic Center, is seeking counselors for all types of assignments, including groups and specialties for its 2026 summer season.  Camp Counselors work directly with the campers in different capacities, manage activities and are responsible for ensuring a safe, exciting, enjoyable summer for all campers. Counselors may be assigned to work with groups, or manage specialties such as Arts & Crafts or Sports & Rec. Specific counselor roles will be assigned based experience and interest.

Required program dates and times: 
Counselors are required to attend all of the following dates and times:

• Camp Season: 
  • Weekdays June 30, 2026 to August 14, 2026 (No camp Friday, July 3rd) - 8:30 A.M. to 4:15 P.M. (Approx 35 hours per week)
• Orientation:
  • June 2, 2026 starting at 4 P.M.
  • June 28, 2026 – 9:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M.
  • June 29, 2026 – 9:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M.

Ability to supervise children in all situations including the waterfront.

Must be available to work the entire camp season and attend all required orientations, trainings, and staff meetings.

Prior experience working with youth such as babysitting or coaching; high preference given to those with experience working with youth in a group recreational setting such as camp, youth group or after school programs.

Must posses, or be willing to obtain, First Aid and CPR/AED certification.

Must be at least 16 years of age or older or have completed at least sophomore year of high school by the time camp begins.  Preference given to those that are 18 years of age or older. 

Experience in specialty fields, such as Arts & Crafts, Sports & Rec, or teaching youth in a group recreational setting such as camp, youth group or after school programs preferred.  

Must pass background and/or reference check. Works with children for a seven-week program serving elementary children ages 5-12.

Facilitates, assists and participates with campers in all activities including sports, arts and crafts, games, swimming, and beach activities.

Assists with group day to day operations such as coordinating bathroom breaks and escorting campers to the bathroom, guiding behavior in the lunchroom, and promoting positive free and safe play during sports and activities.

Enforces the highest level of safety at all times, adhering to camp policies and procedures, performing group “head counts” throughout the day. 

Follows weekly schedule, ensuring on time arrival to all activities and programming.

Follows established camp rules and protocols for all activity areas, ensuring campers clean up after themselves, equipment and supplies are properly stored after use, and equipment and supplies are properly cared for.

Acts as the “first line of defense” for camper behavioral issues and conflicts helping to diffuse the situation and avoid possible escalations in the future.

Serves as a role model for campers and other staff by: Arriving on time - fully ready to participate; Working as a collaborative team member with other counselors and leadership staff; Exhibiting joy in participating in activities with campers; and Communicating appropriately with campers and other staff showing mutual respect and courtesy.

Performs other duties as assigned. 

Additional responsibilities and duties, depending on specific assignment, include but are not limited to:

Lead a dedicated group consisting of 10-15 campers with one or more co-counselors.

Get in the water during group swim time and initiate buddy checks.

Take and maintain accurate group attendance records on a daily basis.

Coordinate group dismissal ensuring each camper is dismissed properly according to their daily dismissal plan (parent pickup or bus).

Hold rosters and emergency camper data for the group including awareness of all allergies, and any daily medication needs.

Plan, prepare and lead engaging, age-appropriate, creative, arts & crafts projects for campers of all ages.

Teach campers and counselors how to complete arts & crafts projects, demonstrating techniques and providing assistance to campers while at arts and crafts.

Maintain, manage and inventory all arts and crafts supplies and equipment.

Plan, prepare and lead engaging, age-appropriate sports and recreation activities for campers of all ages.

Ensure all sports and recreation activities adhere to safety protocols and maintain a safe environment.

Teach campers and counselors how to participate in planned sports and recreation activities, demonstrate techniques, get the activity started and provide assistance to group counselors.

Maintain, manage and inventory all sports and recreation equipment.

Set up, tear down and maintain all sports and recreation areas daily including inflatable gaga pits, gyms and fields.

Foster a positive, inclusive atmosphere that emphasizes sportsmanship, teamwork, and confidence-building, while encouraging camper participation.

Salary : $17 - $18