Friends of the National Zoo is looking for individuals who have experience working with children ages 10-15 for the Senior Counselor position at their overnight camp at the Zoo’s Conservation Biology Institute in Front Royal, Virginia. Applicants must have strong organizational skills, experience in either camp or informal instructional settings, knowledge of the natural sciences, and a love and appreciation for wildlife and the outdoors.
Qualifications:
- At least 21 years of age
- Minimum of two years college, or current undergraduate or graduate student in science, education, biology, or related field required.
- Experience as a teacher, counselor, or staff member in a camp setting.
- Current certification in American Red Cross First Aid and CPR required; additional lifeguard certification preferred (must be obtained by June 01, 2013).
- Valid driver’s license with clean driving record.
Responsibilities:
- Lives on-site during 6 week camp session
- Assumes accountability for the health and welfare of campers.
- Understands, follows, interprets, and enforces all camp rules and policies.
- Provides preliminary support to On-Site Director regarding camp management, i.e. staff supervision, and camper discipline issues.
- Assists On-site Director with daily administrative tasks, including, but not limited to scheduling, staff and camper assignments, and ordering supplies.
- Mentors counselors to provide activities that excite, engage, and inspire campers to care about wildlife and the natural world.
- Develops and teaches at least one, 1.5 hour class per week around the theme of conservation, nature, wildlife and the outdoors.
- Supervises all aspects of the camp program when the On-Site Director is off-site.
- Facilitates programs for staff training week.
- Assists with camp and counselor evaluations.
Term of Employment:
Wednesday, June 26 - Sunday, August 11, 2013
Stipend:
Competitive stipend includes housing and meals.
Location and Lodging:
All camp staff live at the Zoo’s Conservation Biology Institute in Front Royal, Virginia.