High Ropes Unit Counselor

Job Description

Position: High Ropes Unit Counselor

Responsible To: Assistant Camp Director

Classification: Seasonal Staff Member

Camp Location: Trefoil Ranch

Job Purpose

The High Ropes Unit Counselor serves as a Unit Counselor at Trefoil Ranch, providing quality Girl Scout programming, camper supervision, and a safe, inclusive, and engaging summer camp experience. In addition to regular Unit Counselor responsibilities, this position participates in high ropes training and obtains the required certification to facilitate use of the Trefoil Ranch high ropes course with their assigned unit. When not facilitating high ropes activities, this position fulfills regular unit counseling responsibilities and supports general camp operations as needed.

Job Accountabilities

• Work with fellow counselors under the direction of the Head Counselors to plan and provide quality Girl Scout programming for an assigned unit of campers.
• Provide camper care and supervision throughout the day and night, including during meals, activities, transitions, and overnight hours.
• Attend required high ropes course training and successfully obtain the certification necessary to operate the Trefoil Ranch high ropes course.
• Facilitate high ropes course experiences for the assigned unit in accordance with established training, operating procedures, and safety requirements.
• Conduct required safety briefings, check equipment as directed by established procedures, and ensure campers follow all course rules and instructions.
• Assess camper readiness and participation, provide appropriate encouragement and support, and help create a positive, inclusive experience for campers with varying abilities and comfort levels.
• Follow all established course operating procedures, including required inspections, equipment use, and emergency response protocols. Report equipment concerns, hazards, incidents, or maintenance needs to the appropriate supervisor.
• Coordinate with the Head Counselors and camp leadership to schedule and facilitate high ropes activities as appropriate to unit programming and camp operations.
• Participate in regular unit programming and assist with other camp activities and responsibilities as assigned.
• Assist with basic camp operations, including shared cleaning responsibilities, meal preparation, kitchen cleanup, and other camp duties as needed.
• Model the Girl Scout Promise and Law, positive behavior, teamwork, respect, and enthusiasm while supporting a safe and welcoming camp environment.
• Follow all Girl Scouts of Utah, Girl Scouts of the USA, American Camp Association, and applicable state and local safety policies and procedures.
• Perform additional duties as assigned. Responsibilities may be adjusted based on camp needs and organizational priorities.

 Qualifications

· Be a minimum of 18 years of age.

· Willingness and ability to attend required high ropes course training and obtain and maintain the required certification.

· Ability to follow established operating procedures and consistently implement safety requirements.

· Ability to communicate clearly, provide instructions, and work effectively with campers of varying ages, abilities, and experience levels.

· Spanish-English bilingual communication skills are valued but not required.

· Prior Girl Scout experience is preferred but not required.

Qualifications for All Positions at GSU Summer Camp

· Possess or be willing to obtain Red Cross First Aid & CPR Certifications or the equivalent.

· Have or be willing to obtain a Utah Food Handlers’ Permit.

· Hold or be willing to obtain certifications related to specific program areas on the property (High Ropes, Red Cross Waterfront Lifeguarding & First Aid, CPR for the Professional Rescuer, and Small Craft Safety certifications or the equivalent.)

· Capable of following directions from Team Leaders, adhering to policies, and following camp procedures.

· Ability to engage in effective, interactive, two-way communication with campers ages 6–17, including providing clear verbal instructions, actively listening, and responding appropriately to their needs and questions.

· Effectively communicate and engage in interactive, two-way communication with groups of adults, including providing clear verbal instructions, actively listening, and responding appropriately to questions and feedback.

· Ability to observe camper behavior, assess its appropriateness, enforce appropriate safety regulations, and apply appropriate behavior management techniques.

· Respond appropriately in a crisis situation.

· Complete the council required health forms and documentation to ensure the well-being of living and working in an outdoor camp setting.

Physical Requirements

· Must be able to bend down and move, lift, stock, and carry boxes, program materials, and supplies (up to 50 pounds).

· Ability to walk, stand, and work on feet up to 12 to 14 hours a day, including walking upwards of 10,000 steps a day on uneven, unpaved, very steep terrain.   

· Capable of living and working in a high elevation (up to 9200’) and outdoor setting.

· Have visual/auditory ability to respond to environmental and other hazards related to summer camp activities.

· Climb, balance, and maneuver on climbing walls, ropes courses, and other outdoor activity structures while safely using required equipment.

Core Competencies

· Business First Mindset

· Leadership and Stewardship

· Strong Communicator

· Relational Intelligence

· Social Justice and Inclusion (DEI)

· Customer Focused

· Alignment with Girl Scouts of Utah’s Mission

Camp Staff Role in Mission Efforts

· Represent Girl Scouts of Utah positively and professionally in all interactions with campers, families, volunteers, community members, and potential donors.

· Collaborate with staff, volunteers, families, and community partners to support shared goals and positive outcomes.

· Model the values and principles of the Girl Scout Movement, regardless of personal beliefs, by demonstrating respect, integrity, inclusivity, and a commitment to a safe and supportive environment.

· Prioritize the needs of girls, families, and volunteers, ensuring every camper has a meaningful, positive, and mission-centered experience.