Merrowvista Jobs

In-Camp Leader

In Camp Leaders (Camp Counselors) will be responsible for the day-to-day management of a group of elementary and middle school campers. In Camp Leaders will live in a cabin with their campers and will co-lead the group in pairs or trios, ensuring the safety and well-being of every camper. In Camp Leaders will lead campers through daily routines, facilitate a positive communal living experience, and participate in all camp programming and activities alongside their cabin group and co-staff.

Position is located at Merrowvista in Center Tuftonboro, New Hampshire. The Merrowvista site necessitates the ability to move through rugged terrain. In Camp Leaders are required to live onsite for the duration of their employment including staff training and the two camp sessions.

Job Type: Full Time, Seasonal. Employment begins June 13 and ends August 11. An optional Lifeguard training and certification course will be provided on site from June 11 to 12.

Job Summary: In Camp Leaders (Camp Counselors) will be responsible for the day-to-day management of a group of elementary and middle school campers. In Camp Leaders will live in a cabin with their campers and will co-lead the group in pairs or trios, ensuring the safety and well-being of every camper. In Camp Leaders will lead campers through daily routines, facilitate a positive communal living experience, and participate in all camp programming and activities alongside their cabin group and co-staff.

Position Responsibilities:

    • Live in a cabin with 4-12 campers at a time and maintain a positive communal experience.
    • Guide campers through their daily routines: wake up and bedtime, hygiene, personal organization.
    • Facilitate and teach activities such as boating, climbing, arts and crafts, sports and games etc.
    • Participate in all camp programming: early morning and evening activities, meals, daily reflections.
    • Lead campers on 1-3 day backpacking and canoe trips through rugged terrain to primitive campsites.
    • Manage individual and group behavior: resolve conflict, enforce community standards of respect for all.
    • Ensure the safety of campers at all times, follow and implement all safety standards and assist campers in need throughout the day and night.
    • Build relationships with campers to foster friendly, nurturing and age-appropriate group dynamics.
    • Communicate daily with supervisor, attend staff meetings and receive guidance and instruction from coordinators and directors.
    • This is not meant to be a complete list of all responsibilities. Other duties may be assigned.

Skills and Qualifications:
Required:

  • Wilderness First Aid and CPR (will be provided during staff training).
  • Minimum Age: 18 and completed one year of college or post-high school work or service experience.
  • Support the organization’s mission and vision with integrity, dependability, and accountability.
  • Interact effectively with individuals and groups respecting social and cultural diversity. Establish and maintain appropriate professional relationships and interpersonal skills that contribute to a positive community.
  • Demonstrate passion for serving youth, encouraging campers to explore through play and creating a space where youth feel included and a sense of belonging.
  • Fully participate in and be present at all camp community activities, including staff training activities.
  • Maintain effective mental, emotional, and social interactions in our youth-centered residential summer camp program.
  • Ability to handle stressful situations appropriately, maintaining mental, emotional, and social resiliency needed for the job in a fast-paced, interactive environment.
  • Use effective and appropriate self-care practices for maintaining overall wellness.
  • Follow all guidelines and policies as described in the AYF (American Youth Foundation) staff manual.

Preferred:

  • 1-3 years working or volunteering with youth in recreational or educational settings.
  • Leadership experience: including student, sports, club, team and community leadership.
  • Basic outdoor skills: hiking, camping, canoeing (training will be provided).
  • A personality and character that exudes leadership, flexibility, trustworthiness, creativity, energy, inspiration and positivity.

Work Environment:

  • Live onsite in communal housing for the duration of employment including weekends and evenings and be available 24 hours/day in case of emergencies.

All meals are provided. Dietary accommodations will be made when needed.

Compensation:

  • Weekly pay: $600
  • Employees will receive one day off for every six days worked.
  • Wilderness First Aid and CPR training and certifications are required and provided during training.
  • Lifeguard training and certification is not required, but will be offered before staff training begins

Questions? Please contact the Merrowvista team at [email protected].



What should I know before applying?

Our In-Camp Leaders...

• Love working with kids and being outside.

• Are enthusiastic about growing and inspiring campers to grow.

• See themselves as positive role models for the youth of Merrowvista.

What can I expect if I am hired?

Our base salary for first-year leaders is $4,800, with additional bonuses available based on relevant experience and certification. • All food, housing, and trial gear is provided while you work at Merrowvista, and you'll have access to a number of pro-discounts on outdoor equipment and apparel. • You will receive free tuition for Wilderness First Responder, CPR, and Lifeguard courses offered at Merrowvista.

Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT DO WE DO IN STAFF TRAINING?

Leaders will learn all about the mission, philosophy and values of the American Youth Foundation. They will learn how to work with campers, how to teach activities, and will work to build our positive community. By the end of staff training, Village Leaders will be prepared to guide their group through positive experiences, teach Interest Groups, and more.

WHAT DOES A TYPICAL DAY AS A LEADER LOOK LIKE?

Leaders will begin and end their day with their Village and their assigned co-leaders, helping the campers prepare for the day and later for bed. In the morning, leaders will travel with their campers to a flag-raising ceremony, and eat all their meals at a table with their cabin. During the morning and afternoon, Leaders will teach three to four activities for campers that align with their interests and abilities (Interest Groups), will facilitate a rest hour for their cabin, and will engage with campers during Free Time. After dinner, Leaders will engage with the entire camp during a night time activity and will participate in an Evening Reflection. After helping the campers prepare for bed, Leaders will lead their cabin in an activity to close out the day.

WHAT DO THE LIVING ARRANGEMENTS LOOK LIKE?

In-Camp Leaders are expected to sleep in the cabins with the campers. We have a range of cabins, some more remote and rustic than others. All cabins have trail access to bathroom facilities.

HOW MUCH TIME DO I GET OFF?

In-Camp Leaders will get one day off for every six days worked.