What does a Camp Counselor do?
Camp Counselors are typically employed to entertain children and teach them new skills. They do this by brainstorming creative activities and games involving swimming, fishing, hiking and camping. Camp Counselors may also learn first aid and CPR to be prepared for any potential injuries the campers may experience. Other responsibilities involve greeting campers when they first arrive, explaining and enforcing camp rules and providing emotional support to campers struggling to adjust to the environment.
Camp Counselor skills and qualifications
Skills which may be required for Camp Counselors include:
- First aid training to be able to respond to minor injuries or illnesses
- Health and safety knowledge to help keep all campers safe
- Excellent communication skills to convey camp procedures to all visitors
- Leadership skills to guide and motivate campers throughout their stay
- Interpersonal skills to build positive relationships with campers under their care
Camp Counselor salary expectations
A Camp Counselor makes an average salary of $9.31 per hour. Pay rate may depend on level of experience, education and the geographical location.
Camp Counselor education and training requirements
Camp Counselors usually need a high school diploma. Most camps provide training during which Camp Counselors will learn how to lead activities, understand the camp schedule and get some insight into child development. Specialized camps may require their Counselors to have experience in those areas, such as drama qualifications or training in athletics. Applicants seeking a long-term position might wish to pursue an associate degree in leisure and tourism or a similar subject.
Camp Counselor experience requirements
Most Camp Counselor roles don’t require experience, but applicants who have worked with children before will have an advantage. Camp Counselors who want to lead specific activities may benefit from experience in those areas, such as teaching horseback riding or leading a canoeing class. Camps with a specific purpose, such as math or athletics, may require their Camp Counselors to have some experience in teaching their specialty subject, but most will offer hands-on experience as well.
Job description samples for similar positions
If this Camp Counselor job description sample isn’t quite what you are looking for, you may want to consider one for a similar job: