Camp Counselor - Groton Summer Camp 2026

Position Summary

The Camp Counselor is accountable for the initial supervision of the campers. It is the job of the Camp Counselor to ensure campers are enjoying and participating in the programs offered at camp.

• Position Dates: The summer camp season includes 1 week of pre-camp that begins on Monday, June 29, 2026 and 6 weeks of day camp that run from Monday thru Friday each week. Specific dates of camp are July 6 – August 14, 2026. 


• Classification: Association Temp Program (non-exempt, not benefits eligible)

Responsibilities

• Assume responsibility for leadership and guidance of campers in daily living, with special attention to personal hygiene and safety, camper participation in all-camp activities, management of homesickness, inclusion of campers in activities, and meal time behavior


• Assume responsibility for following the rules, policies, and traditions of Groton Camp for all campers and staff


• Serve as a positive role model in language, appearance, and behavior


• Assume responsibility for health, including physical, social, and emotional well-being of campers.


• Support and embrace diversity in all interactions with campers, other staff members, volunteers and parents. Implement programs that engage diverse backgrounds, interests and learning styles.


• Deliver camp programs


• Other duties as assigned
  

Essential Functions

• Be physically able to accompany campers to any of the camp activities


• Assure campers are properly supervised within the NYS Department of Health camp ratios at all times


• Follow the NYS Department of Health and American Camp Association guidelines for all activities


• Apply positive youth development principles in working with campers through communication, relationship development, respect for diversity, and involvement and engagement of youth


• Have visual ability to recognize hazards in the camp setting as well as physical symptoms of camper injury or illness


• Have auditory ability to respond appropriately to hazards and any camper concerns


• Be able to observe camper behavior in daily camp life, to respond verbally to health and safety concerns, and to deal appropriately with any challenging behavior


• Ability to lead programs as designated by the Camp Leadership team
  

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: This work requires some physical exertion and endurance including prolonged standing, bending, stooping, walking long distances, running, hiking, climbing, and stretching;  requires eye-hand coordination and manual dexterity to manipulate outdoor equipment and camp activities; requires normal range of hearing and eyesight to record, prepare, and communicate appropriate camper activities/programs and the ability to lift up to 50 lbs.; willing to work in a camp setting and with limited or simple equipment and facilities; and with daily exposure to the sun, heat, cold, rain, sun, and other varying weather conditions, and animals such as bugs, snakes, bats, etc.

Required Qualifications

• 18 years of age or older


• Experience as a camper or working with children


• Ability to communicate effectively with Camp Directors, work as part of a team with all camp staff, campers and camp families


• Incorporates Team Work and Flexibility into their daily work style


• Ability to work with peers


• Ability to resolve conflict


• Ability to meet acceptable background check standards.


• Ability to work flexible hours as appropriate.


• Ability to meet travel requirements of the position.
  

Preferred Qualifications

• CPR and/or First Aid certification
  

How to Apply

Please submit a cover letter, resume, and three references via our online application. Applications will be accepted until 6/1/2026 or until a suitable candidates are found.

Contact

Keith Davenport, [email protected]

Additional Info

Please be sure to read the Notice to Applicants found on the Jobs with CCE page: https://cals.cornell.edu/cornell-cooperative-extension/join-us/jobs

Cornell Cooperative Extension is an employer and educator recognized for providing equal program and employment opportunities in accordance with applicable laws.

No relocation or VISA Sponsorship available.

The Association may make reasonable accommodations to enable applicants to participate in the hiring process and employees to perform the essential functions of their job. If you require an accommodation so you may participate in the selection process, you are encouraged to contact CCE Tompkins HR at [email protected].