Summer Camp Job Descriptions

Our tag line is true for both the campers and staff alike, ‘Camp Muskoka, where friendships begin and the FUN never ends!’   Whether you are a former camper looking to continue your Camp Muskoka journey, or someone new and ready to share your experience, Camp Muskoka offers staff a chance to make the most of summer. As  staff member you will have the time of your life. This is not like most conventional jobs. You’ll be in beautiful Muskoka and working closely with people who have similar interests where the end product is FUN! Besides the immense gratification, you will also gain self-confidence. You will become more resourceful and build a large variety of skills, from leadership to activity skills, communication to people skills, all while appreciating nature.  As it is for campers, so it is also for staff – a place to be yourself and let your unique talents shine.  This is what Camp Muskoka is all about.

All counselling staff will attend programs with campers, (see list of program areas below) and assist the Program Heads to deliver a safe and fun activity. At program activities the emphasis is on safety, skill development, encouragement, incorporating new themes weekly, and of course, FUN for everyone!

Program Areas: Archery, Arts & Crafts, Canoe & Kayak, Horseback Riding, Theme Day, Land Sports, Mountain Biking, Photography, Music & Recording Studio, Outdoor Pursuits, Paintball, Fishing,Tabletop Games, Tuck Shop, Rock Climbing, Waterfront.

Please click on the job titles below for detailed job descriptions.

 

COUNSELLOR-IN-TRAINING (CIT)

Prerequisite:

  • Must be 17 years old by December 31 of the same calendar year as the season of camp
  • Must attend the full week of staff-pre-camp training

Work in conjunction with 3-4 co-counsellors to provide supervision and leadership, and ensure the physical and emotional safety of a cabin group of campers. To ensure that campers' basic needs are met on a daily basis in terms of health, hygiene and nutrition, and that campers are supported in adjusting to the daily schedule.

Work with co-counsellors to lead the campers in positive cabin times, providing fun, safe, and age appropriate activities and ensure there are positive interactions among campers and staff.

Adhere to, and interpret to the campers the policies, practices, and procedures of Camp Muskoka, and to act as a positive role model at all times.

Responsibilities:

  • Camper Care: Assist the counselling staff for the campers in their care 24-hours-a-day. This includes ensuring their cabins are ready prior to arrival, and attending to the physical, emotional and spiritual well-being of each camper
  • Skill Instruction: Assist the program counselors in their activities. Be responsible to assist in preparation, set-up, take down, etc.
  • Programming: Actively participates and assist in carrying out camp-wide activities, and cabin choice activities as per the guidelines established by the CIT/Camper Coordinator.
  • On-going learning: develop skills through practical, hands-on learning in the constant supervision of counselling staff and coordinators, and through a series of workshops geared to teach the art of counselling, skill instruction, program planning and delivery and overnights leadership
  • Abide by all OCA guidelines and standards.
  • Other Related Duties: Perform all other related duties as assigned

 

Limitations

  • Must be accompanied by a counsellor or coordinator when supervising campers

 

Competencies:

Camper Focused: Commits to assisting growth and development among campers.

Concern for Health and Safety: Acknowledges and understands how to manage and educate others of risk and harm reduction.

Inclusiveness:  Understands and commits to promoting equal opportunity and support for all campers regardless of ability.

Integrity: Demonstrates responsible behavior at all times and maintains high ethical standards.

Sense of Community: Demonstrates an awareness and understanding of community and responds to identified needs.

 

 

Required Certifications:

  • Standard First Aid with CPR C

 

 

COUNSELLOR

Prerequisite:

  • Must be 18 years old by December 31 of the same calendar year as the season of camp

Work in conjunction with 3-4 co-counsellors to provide supervision and leadership, and ensure the physical and emotional safety of a cabin group of campers. To ensure that campers' basic needs are met on a daily basis in terms of health, hygiene and nutrition, and that campers are supported in adjusting to the daily schedule.

Work with co-counsellors to lead the campers in positive cabin times, providing fun, safe, and age appropriate activities and ensure there are positive interactions among campers and staff.

Adhere to, and interpret to the campers the policies, practices, and procedures of Camp Muskoka, and to act as a positive role model at all times.

Responsibilities:

  • Camper Care: Responsible for the campers in their care 24-hours-a-day. This includes ensuring their cabins are ready prior to arrival, and attending to the physical, emotional and spiritual well-being of each camper
    • learning each camper's name, and what they each want to experience at camp
    • being sensitive to the individual needs of each camper
    • modeling appropriate behavior in all routines, programs, and activities
  • Programming: Work with the Program Head to plan, organize, and implement that area’s program for campers that :
    • are fun and recreational, yet have some skill development wherever possible
    • are safe both emotionally and physically
    • are sensitive to the campers’ needs and abilities
    • are varied; provide for challenge and growth, thus building  campers’ self esteem
    • foster positive interactions and relationships
    • are meeting the goals and objectives of the overall program
    • reflect and promote respect for the environment
  • Supervision:  Receive supervision and support by:
    • meet regularly with the Program Area Head and other counsellors for feedback
    • seek direction from supervisor whenever unsure or unclear about anything
    • assist in the implementation of special theme days, evening programs, campfires and other camp activities
  • Assist in all activities in all camp programs by:
    • checking equipment and program areas for safety and cleanliness
    • reporting any unsafe conditions or equipment immediately
    • providing direct leadership during activities
    • encouraging and motivating campers and staff to participate in activities
    • participating with campers in programs and activities
    • providing extra supervision at mealtimes, bedtimes, and any unstructured or "choice" times
  • Participate: Fully as part of the overall staff team by:
    • working co-operatively with all other staff
    • supporting other staff and campers
    • acting as a positive role model at all times
    • assisting in the overall camp program by suggesting ideas, giving leadership when required, and completing all duties as assigned
    • ensuring all program goals, objectives, outlines, and evaluations are appropriately documented and handed in to the Program Area Head in a timely manner
  • Administration: complete all necessary paperwork (first day camper program paper work, correspondence to campers following their stay, incident reports, lessons, and leadership feedback) throughout the summer.
  • Camp-wide Programming: Will be responsible for assisting with developing and delivering programs throughout the summer (these include, but may not be limited to camp-wide activities, evening programs, session closing banquet, campfires, Theme Days, staff meetings, etc).
  • Abide by all OCA guidelines and standards
  • Other Related Duties: Perform all other related duties as assigned

 

Competencies:

Camper Focused: Commits to assisting growth and development among campers.

Concern for Health and Safety: Acknowledges and understands how to manage and educate others of risk and harm reduction.

Inclusiveness:  Understands and commits to promoting equal opportunity and support for all campers regardless of ability.

Integrity: Demonstrates responsible behavior at all times and maintains high ethical standards.

Sense of Community: Demonstrates an awareness and understanding of community and responds to identified needs.

 

Required Certifications:

  • Standard First Aid with CPR C

LIFEGUARD COUNSELLOR

To work in conjunction with the Waterfront Coordinator and Head all other Lifeguards to plan,

Coordinate and facilitate instructional and recreational aquatics programs (including water toys, etc.) for groups of campers. To ensure that all aquatic programs and activities are designed and facilitated to meet the needs and abilities of campers.

Work with co-counsellors to lead the campers in positive cabin times, providing fun, safe, and age appropriate activities and ensure there are positive interactions among campers and staff.

Adhere to, and interpret to the campers the policies, practices, and procedures of Camp Muskoka, and to act as a positive role model at all times.

 

Responsibilities:

  • Camper Care: Responsible for the campers in their care 24-hours-a-day. This includes ensuring their cabins are ready prior to arrival, and attending to the physical, emotional and spiritual well-being of each camper
    • learning each camper's name, and what they each want to experience at camp
    • being sensitive to the individual needs of each camper and that campers are supported in adjusting to the daily schedule
    • ensure the physical and emotional safety of the campers
    • ensure that campers' basic needs are met on a daily basis in terms of health, hygiene and nutrition
    • modeling appropriate behavior in all routines, programs, and activities
  • Lifeguarding Responsibilities:
    • ensuring that all campers and staff are aware of and abide by waterfront safety guidelines and polices
    • required to act as a lifeguard on duty when scheduled at the waterfront or canoe/kayak program area,
    • providing direct leadership during waterfront activities
    • responsible for attending all lifeguard training and information times scheduled by the waterfront coordinator and waterfront head,
    • responsible for proper care and maintenance of all waterfront materials and resources,
    • assisting the waterfront coordinator and head lifeguard with swim tests and continual monitoring of campers at the waterfront
    • Encouraging and motivating campers to participate in lessons and activities that are creative and age appropriate.

 

  • Programming: Work with the Waterfront Coordinator  and Head to plan, organize, and implement that area’s program for campers that :
    • are fun and recreational, yet have some skill development wherever possible
    • are safe both emotionally and physically
    • are sensitive to the campers’ needs and abilities
    • are Life Saving Society accredited (where applicable)
    • are fun and varied; provide for challenge and growth, thus building  campers’ self esteem
    • foster positive interactions and relationships
    • are meeting the goals and objectives of the overall program
    • reflect and promote respect for the environment
    • responding to all emergencies or potential emergencies in a calm, professional and appropriate manner within the policies and guidelines of the camp and the scope of professional training
  • Documentation: Complete all forms and reports accurately, and within the guidelines of the camp. This includes incident reports, staff evaluations, and program evaluations, aquatics waterfront certifications and requisition forms, as well as contributing to a detailed program report and final inventory
  • Supervision:  Receive supervision and support by:
    • meet regularly with the Waterfront and Camper Coordinators and Program Head and other Lifeguards and counsellors for feedback
    • seek direction from supervisors whenever unsure or unclear about anything
    • assist in the implementation of special theme days, evening programs, campfires and other camp activities
  • Assist in all activities in all camp programs by:
    • checking equipment and program areas for safety and cleanliness
    • reporting any unsafe conditions or equipment immediately
    • providing direct leadership during activities
    • encouraging and motivating campers and staff to participate in activities
    • participating with campers in programs and activities
    • providing extra supervision at mealtimes, bedtimes, and any unstructured or "choice" times
  • Participate: Fully as part of the overall staff team by:
    • working co-operatively with all other staff
    • supporting other staff and campers
    • acting as a positive role model at all times
    • assisting in the overall camp program by suggesting ideas, giving leadership when required, and completing all duties as assigned
    • ensuring all program goals, objectives, outlines, and evaluations are appropriately documented and handed in to the Program Area Head in a timely manner
  • Administration: complete all necessary paperwork (first day camper program paper work, correspondence to campers following their stay, incident reports, lessons, and leadership feedback) throughout the summer.
  • Camp-wide Programming: Will be responsible for assisting with developing and delivering programs throughout the summer (these include, but may not be limited to camp-wide activities, evening programs, session closing banquet, campfires, Theme Days, staff meetings, etc).
  • Abide by all OCA guidelines and standards.
  • Other Related Duties: Perform all other related duties as assigned

 

Competencies:

Camper Focused: Commits to assisting growth and development among campers.

Concern for Health and Safety: Acknowledges and understands how to manage and educate others of risk and harm reduction.

Inclusiveness:  Understands and commits to promoting equal opportunity and support for all children regardless of ability.

Integrity: Demonstrates responsible behaviour at all times and maintains high ethical standards.

Sense of Community: Demonstrates an awareness and understanding of community and responds to identified needs.

 

Required Certifications:

  • NLS or Bronze Cross (NLS preferred)
  • Standard First Aid/Basic Rescuer CPR

 

LEADER-IN-TRAINING (LIT) COUNSELLOR

As an LIT Counsellor you are committed to assisting growth and development of each LIT camper. You are the LITs’ caregiver, instructor, positive role model, and best friend.  LIT Counsellors enjoy meals with their campers, assist in activity programs, lead leadership activities, evening programs, special events, off-site trips, extended camp outs and more!  LIT Counsellors help to facilitate friendships, LIT identity, mutual support and unforgettable memories. LIT Counsellors reside in a tent in the LIT village with campers age 14 to 16 years. LIT Counsellors must be 20 years of age or older.

CABIN HEAD

Work in conjunction with co-cabin counselors to provide supervision and leadership, and ensure the physical and emotional safety of a cabin group of campers. To ensure the campers’ basic needs are met on a daily basis in terms of heath, hygiene and nutrition and that camper are supported in adjusting to the daily schedule.

Also provide support to counselors within the cabin, giving them support and advice when needed. Complete all necessary paperwork as required and give it to the right person or file it in the appropriate manor.

Responsibilities:

  • Camper Care: Responsible for the campers in their care 24-hours-a-day. This includes ensuring their cabins are ready prior to arrival, and attending to the physical, emotional and spiritual well-being of each camper
    • Learning each camper’s name, and what they want to experience at camp
    • Being sensitive to the individual needs of each camper and that campers are supported in adjusting to the daily schedule
    • Ensure the physical and emotional safety of the campers
    • Ensure the campers’ basic needs are met on a daily basis in terms of health, hygiene and nutrition
    • Modeling appropriate behavior in all routines, programs, and activities
  • Additional cabin duties: Responsible for ensuring the overall well-being of the cabin, counselors are participating in the cabin and helping to meet all of the campers needs. Also completing the required paperwork on a weekly and daily basis as follows:
    • Creating period 5 activities for the cabin
    • Completing bunk assignments on incoming day
    • Recording tuck orders, delegating the task when it is your day off.
    • Writing a daily summary and weekly summary of events within the cabin
    • Communicate any concerns or events that occurred to the designated Camper Coordinator
    • Ensure campers are taken to Lost and Found at the end of each session to see if any of their belongings are in there.
    • Complete new camper phone calls when scheduled
    • Submit tuck requests and overnight paperwork to the appropriate people 2 days before the scheduled overnight.
    • Ensure the cabin schedule is being followed and that all cabin duties are evenly distributed throughout the cabin staff.
  • Programming: work with the Program Heads to plan, organize and implement those area’s programs for campers that:
    • Are fun and recreational, yet have some skill development wherever possible
    • Are safe both emotionally and physically
    • Are sensitive to the campers’ needs and abilities
    • Are varied; provide for challenge and growth, thus building campers self esteem
    • Foster positive interactions and relationships
    • Are meeting the goals and objectives of the overall program
    • Reflect and promote respect for the environment
  • Assist in all activities in all camp programs by:
    • Checking equipment and program areas for safety and cleanliness
    • Reporting any unsafe conditions or equipment immediately
    • Providing direct leadership during activities
    • Encouraging and motivating campers and staff to participate in activities
    • Participating with campers in programs and activities
    • Providing extra supervision at mealtimes, bedtimes, and any unstructured or “choice” times
  • Participate: Fully as part of the overall staff team by:
    • Working co-operatively with all other staff
    • Supporting other staff and campers
    • Acting as a positive role model at all times
    • Assisting in the overall camp program by suggesting ideas giving leadership when required, and completing all duties as assigned
    • Ensuring all program goals, objectives, outlines and evaluations are appropriately documented and handed in to the program head in a timely manner.
  • Camp-wide programming: will be responsible for assisting with developing and delivering programs throughout the summer (these include but are not limited to camp-wide activities, evening programs, session closing banquet, campfires, theme days, staff meetings, ect.)
  • Abide by all OCA standards and guidelines
  • Other related duties: Perform all other related duties as assigned

Competencies:

Camper Focused: Commits to assisting growth and development among campers

Concern for Health and Safety: Acknowledges and understands how to manage and educate others of risk and harm reduction.

Inclusiveness: Understands and commits to promoting equal opportunity and support for all campers regardless or ability

Integrity: Demonstrates responsible behavior at all times and maintains high ethical standards

Sense of Community: Demonstrates an awareness and understanding of community and responds to identified needs.

PROGRAM HEAD

Program Heads work in one specific area of expertise, teaching campers the different activities that we offer at camp. Working under the direct supervision of the Program or Waterfront Director, the Heads require a solid practical background in their area that they wish to instruct as they are responsible for developing programs, themes and special events in their areas.  They work directly with the staff assigned to their program to run a safe and fun activity. Program Heads supervise and evaluate their staff, provide constructive feedback to both campers and staff alike, and create well-rounded programs and experiences in their program area. Each Program Head is assigned to a camper cabin to assist with camper and staff supervision, and assist at meals, camp outs, evening activities and cabin time.  Depending on age/experience/suitability/need, program staff may live with their camper cabin or with other program staff members.  Please specify the program area that you are interested in when applying.   Required certification various depending on program area, i.e. ORCKA, NLS, Bronze Cross, Wilderness First Aid, Level 1 or 2 Challenge Course Training, etc.

SOCIAL MEDIA / MARKETING HEAD

The Social Media / Marketing Head is to provide valuable and diverse experience, while fulfilling the execution and practical application of marketing needs for Camp Muskoka. To accomplish this, the Social Media / Marketing Head will be responsible for creation of content for production, assembly of marketing materials and the active dissemination of those materials at events and commercial spaces including the camp itself and its subsidiaries. The Social Media / Marketing Head will be energetic and enthusiastic about the camp's objectives, marketing needs, 5 dials and core values. They will be able to integrate into the camp community, and relate well to children and staff in a positive manner. Skills in experiential marketing, social media, photography, videography and graphic design are required – Must provide a relevant portfolio. A police background check is mandatory.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Content Generation for annual plans (print, communications, social media, photography), Social Networking (Facebook, Instagram), Planning and Executing, Marketing and Social Events Preparation of Marketing Plans, General Program support as needed.

CAMPER COORDINATOR and CIT COORDINATOR

Camper Coordinators are responsible for supervising staff and campers of a specific group, i.e. Cougar Lodge, LITs, etc.  Under the supervision of the Assistant Director, the Coordinators bring strong organizational and planning skills to the position and have leadership experience working with children and supervising staff.  They liaise with the campers and staff of their specific area and other departments.  Coordinators are expected to supervise and evaluate their staff, provide constructive feedback to campers and staff alike, and ensure all activities/schedules are well-rounded and create a positive, safe environment. Coordinators assist with staff training and evaluation.  Coordinator positions:   Camper Coordinator x 3, Leader-in-Training (LIT) Coordinator, Counsellor-in-Training (CIT) Coordinator

 

Responsibilities:

  • Supervision: Provide ongoing supervision to respective cabins (Bobcat Blvd, Lynx Lane, Cougar Lodge) inform Summer Camp Director of any situations which warrant discipline. Keep informed on difficult campers and the methods being used to discipline the camper.
  • Counselling Staff Supervision: Training, supervision, cabin placements, evaluation, and management of counsellors in a manner that promotes Camp Muskoka's core values.
  • Stay in constant communication with the Assistant Summer Camp Director and inform them of any situations that arise.
  • Implement weekly cabin schedule, ensuring all duties are distributed fairly and follow regulations.
  • Lead by example, demonstrate appropriate behaviour at all times, setting a good example for fellow staff members and campers alike.
  • Help in organizing and facilitating staff training week, so staff are highly skilled and trained for whatever camp life may throw at them.
  • Coordinate Emergency Procedures drills working with the Crisis Response team to see that all standard procedures are met an accomplished in a timely manner.
  • Oversee the Lost and Found System, conducting daily checks of the Lost and Found trunk, taking out clothing with names and locating the camper before the end of the week. Create appropriate logs at the end of the session so the families may be contacted about their possessions.
  • Be proactive with communication, ensure opens channels with all camp departments and assist staff in their queries.
  • Oversee overnights, checking in on cabins at their overnight locations that camper needs are met during the overnight and staff are participating.
  • Coordinate staff meetings; create an agenda of what will be discussed and who will be discussing it. Take meeting minutes so staff who were not present can still be informed on what was discussed.
  • Ensure all areas of camp are complying with OCA guidelines, including one self.
  • Summer End Report - Will complete a summer end report outlining the summer and suggestions for upcoming summers.
  • Perform all other related duties as assigned.

 

Competencies:

Concern for Health and Safety: Acknowledges and understands how to manage and educate others of risk and harm reduction.

Integrity: Demonstrates responsible behavior at all times and maintains high ethical standards.

Quality Focus: Ensures that Camp Muskoka programs are superior.

Sense of Community: Demonstrates awareness and understanding of community and responds to identified needs.

Teamwork: Actively build teams and encourage open relationships for maximum organizational effectiveness.

Communication: Communicates in a thorough, clear and timely manner and supports information sharing and goal achievement with all Camp Muskoka staff and campers.

Initiative: Seek and find solutions to problems without waiting for direction; identifies new ideas that will assist in achieving mission and strategic goals.

Required Qualifications/Certifications:

  • Standard First Aid/CPR  

Recommended Qualifications/Certifications

  • NLS
  • Instructional or coaching background or experience in a supervisory role.

ASSISTANT CAMP DIRECTOR

The Assistant Camp Director’s job is to provide excellent leadership to all staff and campers, and to lead by example following all camp rules, policies and traditions. They should be a role model and caregiver to each staff member at Camp Muskoka and hold civil relationships with everyone. The Assistant Camp Director will develop and facilitate staff training procedures. They should be a resource to staff members in all areas of their jobs (i.e. programming, cabin issues, camper issues etc.).  They are continuously supervising  all areas of camp, ensuring program areas are being run properly and smoothly, being present at all meal times, and keeping in contact with Club Med and health services. They are responsible for ensuring a high quality camp experience for every camper and staff member in attendance. The Assistant Camp Director will report to the Camp Director and should keep in contact with the other Assistant Directorial team members, ensuring one another is informed and up to date on the current events at camp.

Responsibilities:

  • Leadership: Provide excellent leadership to all staff and campers, lead by example following all camp rules, policies and traditions. Be a role model and caregiver to each staff member at Camp Muskoka, hold civil relationships with everyone. Be a resource to staff in all areas of their jobs.
  • Supervision: Ongoing supervision in all areas of camp, program areas are being run properly and smoothly, be present at all meal times observe food service procedures, keep in contact with Club Med and health services. Ensure a high quality camp experience for every camper and staff member in attendance.
  • Help in organizing and facilitating staff training week, so staff are highly skilled and trained for whatever camp life may throw at them.
  • Collect end of season inventory counts and accommodate for missing information.
  • Be an active member of the Crisis Response Team, coordinate with all departments of camp and educate self on the Emergency Procedures each department has in place. Assist in maintaining emergency supplies for both land and water.
  • Keep in contact with the other Assistant Directorial team and Summer Camp Director, ensuring one another is informed and up to date on the current events at camp.
  • Maintain required paperwork and administrative duties; follow up on incident reports as they arise.
  • Work independently, understand objectives and think quickly to communicate and organize other staff accordingly.
  • Ensure all areas of camp are complying with OCA guidelines, including one self.
  • Assume the Summer Camp Directors duties in their absence.

 

Competencies:

Concern for Health and Safety: Acknowledges and understands how to manage and educate others of risk and harm reduction.

Integrity: Demonstrates responsible behavior at all times and maintains high ethical standards.

Quality Focus: Ensures that Camp Muskoka programs are superior.

Sense of Community: Demonstrates awareness and understanding of community and responds to identified needs.

Teamwork: Actively build teams and encourage open relationships for maximum organizational effectiveness.

Communication: Communicates in a thorough, clear and timely manner and supports information sharing and goal achievement with all Camp Muskoka staff and campers.

Initiative: Seek and find solutions to problems without waiting for direction; identifies new ideas that will assist in achieving mission and strategic goals.

 

Required Certifications/Qualifications:

  • Standard First Aid/CPR
  • Minimum 21 years of age
  • Minimum 2 years experience or equivalent in a supervisory role at a Summer Camp.
  • Experience training staff members

Recommended Certifications/Qualifications:

  • Participation in a leadership program or experience facilitating leadership skills.

AERIAL PARK GUIDES

Aerial Park Guides are responsible for leading campers and guests through the Camp Muskoka Aerial Park. This is a physical job and applicants must be comfortable with working at heights for extended periods of time.  Aerial Park Guides will also be responsible for ensuring campers and guests are wearing safety equipment properly. Guides will be trained in emergency procedures in order to ensure the safety and wellbeing of everyone.

MAINTENANCE/FACILITIES WORKERS

Maintenance and Facility Workers are responsible for the day-to-day operation and needs of the entire camp facility.  This job includes minor construction, general building repairs, house keeping, groundskeeping, and landscaping.

KITCHEN HELPERS

Kitchen Helpers are responsible for the preparation and serving of all meals. This will include occasional shifts washing dishes.