CIT Program Leader

THE CAREY SCHOOL

JOB DESCRIPTION

COUNSELOR-IN-TRAINING PROGRAM LEADER

OVERVIEW:  

The Carey School is a Preschool to Grade 5 independent school located in San Mateo, California, operating on two campuses. The Carey School is committed to being an inclusive environment that supports the social-emotional growth of all constituents and seeks candidates who value this endeavor. At Carey, we work to create classroom communities that support students in becoming lifelong learners that are engaged, joyful, thoughtful, metacognitive learners that can make their thinking visible.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

The CIT Program Leader mentors and guides our 6th-9th grade Counselors-In-Training (CIT) in leadership development, teamwork, and hands-on camp experience. This role is ideal for an educator who connects well with middle schoolers and understands their developmental needs. The CIT Program Leader designs and facilitates interactive challenges and activities to help CITs build confidence, communication skills, and responsibility. CITs learn by doing with coaching and feedback from the CIT Program Leader along the way. This role also oversees beloved camp traditions like Water Day and Patio Games, guiding CITs as they work together to plan, set up, run, and break down these camp-wide events. This is a full-time seasonal summer position. 

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

• Designing and implementing leadership-focused activities tailored to the social-emotional needs and learning styles of middle-school students.
• Facilitating group discussions and team-building exercises that challenge CITs to grow as individuals and leaders.
• Creating real-world opportunities for CITs to practice essential skills such as conflict resolution, activity planning, and effective camper communication.
• Coordinating the smooth operation of special all-camp events, strategically delegating tasks to CITs to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility.
• Conducting regular observations and check-ins to monitor CIT progress, offering insightful guidance and constructive feedback to support their growth.
• Managing CIT group dynamics and behavior, intervening thoughtfully to address conflicts and promote a culture of respect and positivity.
• Collaborating with camp leadership to ensure the CIT program aligns with the overall mission of the camp.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Exceptional leadership, mentoring, and communication skills, with a genuine passion for empowering young leaders.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-energy camp environment with professionalism, patience, and flexibility.
• Demonstrated ability to design and implement engaging, developmentally appropriate curriculum for adolescent learners.
• Strong organizational skills and initiative.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Extensive experience working with youth, specifically in a school or recreational leadership setting.
• Classroom teaching experience, particularly with middle school-aged students, is strongly preferred.
• Proven track record of planning and coordinating special events or group activities. 

DETAILS:

Employment Dates:

• Staff Training: June 16-18, 2026
• Camp Season: June 22-August 7, 2026

Schedule:

• Monday-Friday; Shifts will fall between 7:45 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., approximately 8 hours per day.
• This is a seasonal, non-exempt position.

Compensation:

• $25-$30 per hour, based on experience and qualifications.