About this position
Description:
Qualifications:
- Minimum of 16 years of age
- Passion for working with children in a fun, active, and engaging camp environment
- Ability to be energetic, patient, and adaptable in a fast-paced setting
- Strong teamwork and communication skills to work professionally and cooperatively with co-workers
General Purpose:
To lead and support campers in a variety of activities while ensuring a safe, positive, and inclusive camp experience.
Supervision Received:
Works under the supervision of the Recreation Supervisor.
Primary Duties & Responsibilities:
- Create a welcoming and engaging environment for all campers.
- Lead and actively participate in camp activities, including arts & crafts, sports, games, nature exploration, and team-building exercises.
- Ensure the safety and well-being of campers at all times.
- Foster positive relationships among campers and encourage teamwork and friendship.
- Serve as a role model by demonstrating respect, responsibility, and enthusiasm.
- Maintain a high-energy, fun atmosphere while enforcing camp rules and expectations.
- Assist in planning and implementing daily camp schedules and activities.
- Provide input and feedback for camp programming and special events.
- Work professionally and respectfully with all co-workers, promoting a positive and supportive team environment.
- Communicate effectively with parents/guardians as needed.
- Assist with set-up and clean-up of camp spaces.
- Handle minor behavior and first aid situations and report incidents as necessary.
- Perform all other duties as assigned by the Recreation Supervisor.
Secondary Duties & Responsibilities:
- Assist with field trips and off-site activities.
- Help maintain camp supplies, equipment, and facilities.
- Participate in staff meetings and training sessions.
Considerations:
- As an employee of an Illinois park district, is classified as a Mandatory Reporter of suspected child abuse.
- Subject to random drug testing.
- Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions (heat, rain, etc.).
- Must be able to stand, run, and participate in physical activities for extended periods.
- Ability to lift a minimum of 25 pounds.
Training & Continuing Education:
- Required to attend pre-camp training, which includes CPR/First Aid certification and staff orientation.
- Must be at least 16 years of age.
- Ability to commit to the full camp session and maintain consistent, punctual attendance.
- Demonstrated maturity, responsibility, and professionalism when working with children.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team in a fast-paced, active camp environment.
- Ability to follow all camp policies, procedures, and supervisory direction.
- Personal cell phone use is permitted only during designated break times. Phones may not be used while supervising or interacting with campers, unless an emergency occurs.
- Ability to create and maintain a safe, positive, and inclusive environment for campers of varying abilities, backgrounds, and needs.
- Strong communication skills with both children and co-workers.
- Willingness to participate fully in all required training sessions.