Riding Unit Counselor

Job Description

Position: Riding Unit Counselor

Responsible To: Equestrian Coordinator

Classification: Seasonal Staff Member

Camp Location: Trefoil Ranch

Job Purpose

This position plays a key role in upholding the mission of Girl Scouts of Utah by modeling respect, integrity, and service, prioritizing camper well-being, and contributing to a collaborative, camp-wide culture. When not assisting with riding duties, the Equestrian Counselor supports general camp operations, demonstrating flexibility, teamwork, and a readiness to assist wherever needed to provide a memorable and meaningful camp experience for all.

Job Accountabilities

• Work with fellow counselors under the direction of the Equestrian Coordinator and      Lead Instructor to plan and provide a quality, progressive horseback riding and horse care program for campers.
  • Assist in teaching staff their riding program responsibilities during staff training.
  • Evaluate riding ability of staff and campers.
  • Teach and enforce all safety rules.
  • Train and facilitate horseback riding and horse and tack care lessons       (including ground, arena, and trail) based on the age and skill level of the campers.
  • Help in writing program outlines and lesson plans that allow for progression of activities and accomplish specific program goals.
  • Teach and monitor the proper use of equipment; report broken or missing equipment in a timely manner. 
  • Assist with horse care as assigned, including mucking stalls, grooming, and feeding.
  • Support with setting up the barn area during staff training and breaking it down at the end of the season.

· When not involved in a riding lesson, work with fellow counselors to plan and provide quality Girl Scout program to a unit of campers.

o Get to know the campers in the unit and help them learn to respect the rights of others and to understand the differences and similarities of other campers.

o Teach workshops, activities, games, songs, and projects to campers.

o Guide activities and experiences through girl planning, group decision-making, and girl leadership in the camp unit.

· Be responsible for camper care and supervision twenty-four hours a day (including nighttime).

o Help resolve camper problems and conflicts, including homesickness.

o Ensure campers have sufficient activities and supervision at all times.

o Assist campers in keeping units and other camp areas clean.

o Eat meals with the campers and supervise clean up after meals.

· Assist with basic camp operation procedures.

o Assist with unit and camp housekeeping, sanitation, and care of supplies and equipment.

o Help with weekly camper check in/out.

o Assist with camp-wide programs including workshops, all camps, campfire programs,  camper’s choice activities, and flag ceremonies. 

o Support in keeping records and making reports as needed.

o Attend and participate in staff training and the closing of camp.

· Help with kitchen duties as needed including meal preparation and clean-up for up to one week in duration.

· Understand and implement safety guidelines and standards as outlined by Girl Scouts of the USA, the American Camp Association, Certified Horsemanship Association, and any state and local codes.’

· Perform additional duties as assigned.

· Job duties may be subject to change pursuant to the activities of the camp, camp needs, and the organization as a whole.

Qualifications

· Have experience with horseback riding and the care of horses; be familiar with western riding style and equipment.

· 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

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

· Stamina 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 and outdoor setting (up to 6500’), in varying and extreme weather conditions.

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

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.