Camp Junior Counselor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the vibrant, dynamic world of camping, the role of a junior counselor has never been more pivotal.

As camp programs continue to evolve and expand, the demand for dedicated, energetic, and caring individuals who can guide, mentor, and safeguard our campers grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a camp junior counselor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the heart of this role,
• A camp director outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the ins and outs of being a camp junior counselor,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we unveil a customizable camp junior counselor job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Camp Junior Counselor Duties and Responsibilities

Camp Junior Counselors play a significant role in supporting the overall camp operations and ensuring a fun, safe, and educational experience for campers.

They assist senior counselors and are directly involved with the campers, with duties and responsibilities including:

• Assisting in planning and implementing daily camp activities and programs
• Supervising campers to ensure their safety during camp activities
• Helping campers with their needs and resolving any issues or disputes
• Acting as a role model to campers, demonstrating appropriate behavior and values
• Assisting in the setup, cleanup, and maintenance of camp facilities and equipment
• Supporting the overall camp rules and policies, and ensuring campers follow them
• Participating in staff meetings and contributing to the continuous improvement of the camp program
• Communicating with parents about their child’s experiences, progress, or any concerns
• Assisting with emergency procedures and drills
• Participating in special events and camp traditions

 

Camp Junior Counselor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a motivated and energetic individual to join our team as a Camp Junior Counselor.

The ideal candidate will be responsible for assisting in the planning, organization, and delivery of a variety of recreational activities for campers.

The role involves supporting the Camp Counselor in conducting games, sports, crafts, educational activities, and field trips.

The Camp Junior Counselor should create a fun and safe environment where campers can grow, learn, and enjoy their summer experience.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist in planning and implementing camp programs and activities
• Support the Camp Counselor in supervising campers and ensuring their safety at all times
• Help in setting up and cleaning up activity areas
• Participate enthusiastically in all camp activities
• Assist in maintaining accurate program records including incident reports, logbook documentation, and daily attendance
• Identify and respond to camper behavior issues
• Help in guiding campers in participating in team-building activities
• Encourage respect for personal property, camp equipment, and facilities
• Manage camper’s homesickness and other emotional and physical issues

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a counselor-in-training, junior counselor, or similar role preferred
• Strong leadership and communication skills
• Ability to interact with diverse groups
• Passion for working with children
• First aid and CPR certified is a plus
• Must be able to pass a background check
• High school diploma or equivalent required; current enrollment in an undergraduate program in education or recreation management is a plus

 

Benefits

• Room and board provided
• Free meals
• Training and certification opportunities
• Opportunity to gain experience in leadership and child care
• Chance to work in a fun, outdoor environment

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Camp Junior Counselor
• Work Environment: Outdoors with occasional indoor activities. The work involves physical activities.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Camp Counselor or Camp Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as camp budget.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Seasonal, Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our camp. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Camp Junior Counselor Do?

Camp Junior Counselors are typically entry-level professionals in the field of youth summer camp management.

They are typically high school or college students who are interested in gaining experience in leadership and working with children.

They work closely with Senior Counselors, Camp Directors, and other camp staff to ensure the safety, enjoyment, and positive experience of campers.

They assist in the planning and execution of camp activities, games, and educational programs.

Camp Junior Counselors are responsible for supervising groups of children, ensuring their physical and emotional well-being, and fostering a fun, engaging, and inclusive environment.

They also might help with conflict resolution among campers and are often tasked with teaching campers about rules and expected behaviors.

In addition, Junior Counselors often assist with logistical tasks such as setting up equipment for activities, organizing meal times, and maintaining the cleanliness and orderliness of the camp facilities.

They may also be tasked with accompanying campers during field trips or off-site excursions.

Despite their junior status, these counselors are an integral part of the camp team, providing support and assistance where needed, and contributing to the overall positive experience of the campers.

 

Camp Junior Counselor Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Camp Junior Counselor should possess the following skills and qualifications:

• Strong interpersonal skills to interact with campers, build relationships, and resolve conflicts effectively.
• Excellent communication skills to clearly convey instructions, guidelines and safety rules to campers and communicate with fellow staff and camp leaders.
• Patience and empathy to understand and respond appropriately to the needs and feelings of campers.
• Leadership skills to supervise and motivate campers to participate in camp activities.
• Physical endurance and strength for outdoor activities and long hours of work, often in a physically demanding environment.
• Basic first aid skills to handle minor injuries or health issues that may arise during camp activities.
• Problem-solving skills to quickly adapt and come up with solutions during unexpected situations.
• Teamwork skills to collaborate effectively with other counselors and camp staff to run activities and manage campers.
• Experience with or willingness to learn recreational activities typically offered at camps, such as swimming, hiking, arts and crafts, or sports.

 

Camp Junior Counselor Experience Requirements

For the role of a Camp Junior Counselor, candidates generally need to have previous experience working with children, either in a formal or informal setting.

This could include babysitting, volunteering at a school or community program, or having been a camper themselves.

Many camps also require their Junior Counselors to have completed a camp counselor training program.

These programs usually cover topics such as safety, leadership, child development, and conflict resolution.

This practical experience helps candidates to understand the day-to-day responsibilities of a camp counselor and prepares them for the challenges they might face.

Some camps may prefer candidates who have more specialized experience, such as training in first aid or CPR, experience with a specific age group or population, or skills in a particular activity such as swimming, arts and crafts, or outdoor survival.

Junior Counselor candidates with more than 1 to 2 seasons of experience are often considered more desirable as they already have a practical understanding of camp life and the unique demands of the role.

Candidates with more than 3 seasons of experience may have developed leadership skills and could be considered for more senior counselor roles.

 

Camp Junior Counselor Education and Training Requirements

A Camp Junior Counselor typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, though some camps may accept students who are still in high school.

Most training for this role occurs on-the-job and involves learning about safety procedures, emergency response, camp rules and regulations, and how to effectively communicate and interact with campers.

Junior Counselors should possess basic First Aid and CPR training, and some camps may require counselors to be certified lifeguards.

Certain camps may prefer or require Junior Counselors to have previous experience working with children or in a camp setting.

This could be through volunteer work, babysitting, or previous employment.

While not mandatory, a Junior Counselor who pursues additional training or courses in child development, recreation, or a related field demonstrates their commitment to the role and may be seen as a more desirable candidate.

Some Junior Counselors may also receive training in specialized areas, such as outdoor survival, arts and crafts, or sports, depending on the focus of the camp.

 

Camp Junior Counselor Salary Expectations

A Camp Junior Counselor earns an average salary of $20,800 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may vary based on factors such as experience, location, and the specific camp they are employed by.

 

Camp Junior Counselor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Camp Junior Counselor need?

A Camp Junior Counselor needs strong interpersonal skills to interact with children of various ages and backgrounds.

They should be patient, empathetic, and excellent communicators.

In addition, they should be physically fit and enthusiastic about outdoor activities and games.

Basic first aid and CPR certification can also be beneficial.

 

Do Camp Junior Counselors need a degree?

A degree is not typically required for a Camp Junior Counselor.

However, a background or degree in education, psychology, or related fields can be beneficial.

Most important is experience working with children and a genuine interest in their well-being and development.

 

What should you look for in a Camp Junior Counselor resume?

Look for a resume that demonstrates experience working with children, such as previous camp counselor roles, tutoring, or babysitting.

Certifications in first aid, CPR, or lifeguarding are also valuable.

The ability to lead activities or sports and experience in conflict resolution or behavior management can also be advantageous.

 

What qualities make a good Camp Junior Counselor?

A good Camp Junior Counselor is enthusiastic, patient, and a good role model for children.

They should be responsible, able to enforce rules and guidelines, and ensure the safety of camp participants.

They should also be creative and flexible, able to adapt to changing situations and come up with engaging activities.

 

What are the daily duties of a Camp Junior Counselor?

On a typical day, a Camp Junior Counselor assists with the implementation of daily activities and programs, supervises children, and ensures their safety.

They also help with the setup and clean-up of activities, resolve conflicts among campers, and provide support to Senior Counselors.

In some cases, they may be responsible for administrative tasks, such as keeping records of camper participation in activities.

 

Conclusion

There you go!

Today, we’ve shed some light on the true essence of being a camp junior counselor.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about organizing games.

It’s about shaping future leaders and creating lasting memories, one camp day at a time.

With our ready-to-use camp junior counselor job description template and real-world examples, you’re geared up to embark on this exciting journey.

But why not go further?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your express ticket to crafting meticulous job listings or fine-tuning your resume to absolute excellence.

Keep in mind:

Every camper you guide is a part of a bigger mission.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

How to Become a Camp Junior Counselor (Complete Guide)

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