Senior Counselor

Title: Senior Counselor
Reports to: PE Program Manager
Department: Camps
Employment Status: Non-Exempt Seasonal
Overall Function: The Senior Counselor provides 24-hour care, supervision, and leadership for campers and guests while delivering high-quality, intentional, recreational, and safe programming. In alignment with American Camp Association (ACA) standards, this role supports camper well-being, positive behavior management, risk management practices, and a welcoming camp environment.
Senior Counselors serve as experienced frontline staff who model Camp Joy values and support the overall camper experience through active engagement and sound judgment.
Summary of Responsibilities
1. Camper Supervision & Care
a. Reside with campers and provide 24-hour supervision, ensuring camper safety, well-being, and engagement.
b. Supervise, educate, and assist campers with daily routines, including meals, transitions, activities, and evening programs.
c. Observe and manage camper behavior using positive, developmentally appropriate strategies.
d. Communicate health, safety, or behavioral concerns promptly to supervisory staff.
2. Program Leadership & Support
a. Set up and lead hands-on programs, games, and team-building activities for a diverse range of campers and visiting groups as scheduled by Coordinators.
b. Assist in preparing and facilitating evening programs and large-group activities.
c. Follow weekly schedules and provide supervision and assistance during activities led by other staff members.
3. Risk Management & Documentation
a. Follow all Camp Joy policies, procedures, and safety guidelines at all times.
b. Complete required documentation accurately and on time, including incident reports, health screenings, and course usage forms.
c. Assist in maintaining clean, safe, and organized cabins, program spaces, and materials throughout the week and at program close.
4. Team & Professional Responsibilities
a. Participate fully in all required staff meetings, trainings, and in-services.
b. Maintain a positive, solutions-oriented attitude and openness to coaching and feedback.
c. Complete assigned projects and end-of-program responsibilities as directed.
Joy Outdoor Education Center, P.O. Box 157, Clarksville, OH 45113 Page 2 of 3
Observable Behaviors
Customer Service
• Role Model: Demonstrates respectful, calm, and positive interactions with campers and clients.
• Relationship Building: Learns camper names and fosters inclusive, supportive group environments.
• Responsiveness: Addresses camper needs efficiently while prioritizing safety.
Teamwork
• Flexibility: Remains adaptable, present, and effective in a dynamic camp environment.
• Communication: Maintains open, respectful communication with campers and staff.
Work Quality
• Professionalism: Delivers a safe, engaging, and high-quality Camp Joy experience.
• Timeliness: Arrives on time and prepared for all programs, meetings, and tasks.
• Initiative: Proactively steps in to support programming, camper needs, and safety.
Performance Measures
• Achieves an average rating of “meets or exceeds expectations” on staff evaluations.
• Receives program client evaluation scores of 3.85 or higher for specialty camps.
• Achieves 96% or higher on camper outcome evaluations related to campers reporting they had fun at camp (agency camps).
Qualifications
• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with staff, youth, and clients.
• Ability to remain active for extended periods (12+ hours) across varied outdoor terrain and in inclement weather.
• Demonstrated sound decision-making and problem-solving skills.
• Willingness to receive feedback and be coached.
• Current CPR/First Aid certification or ability to successfully complete Camp Joy–provided training.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Physical Requirement:
o Ability to lift, carry, and assist with loads of up to 50 pounds, including program equipment and, when necessary, assisting campers in safety-related or emergency situations.