Backcountry Wilderness Area Art Camp Counselor

JOB TITLE:  Backcountry Wilderness Area Art Camp Counselor                                                         FLSA Status:  Non-Exempt

(Seasonal Position May-August)

General Statement of Duties: Responsible for supervising campers and facilitating daily Camp Backcountry activities and nature art-focused lessons in an engaging, safe, and inclusive outdoor environment.

Supervision Received: Reports to the Backcountry Wilderness Area Camp Backcountry Director (Environmental Education and Program Manager) and the Backcountry Wilderness Area Environmental Education Coordinator.      

Supervision Exercised: None

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Examples of Duties: The following examples of duties are intended to be illustrative only and are not intended to be all inclusive.

• Ensure compliance with Colorado State Childcare Licensing Rules and Regulations to maintain the health and safety of up to 14 children daily.
• Lead and engage children in a variety of activities, including art projects, camp songs, games, team building, social-emotional learning, science lessons, hikes, and child-led nature play.
• Adhere to established Camp Backcountry policies and procedures.
• Uphold high standards of health and safety during all activities.
• Follow lesson plans provided by the Camp Director.
• Prepare materials and spaces each morning before camper arrival and clean up after campers depart each afternoon.
• Facilitate inquiry-based learning while adapting activities to meet the needs of diverse learners.
• Work collaboratively within a team environment and independently as needed.
• Capture and submit daily pictures and videos highlighting camper experiences.
• Demonstrate flexibility and assist with additional tasks related to camp operations.
• Maintain a positive and professional attitude in all weather conditions.
• Attend all required staff meetings.
• Respond appropriately to emergency situations.

Physical and Environmental Standards:

• Ability to work both indoors and outdoors in varying and sometimes extreme weather conditions such as heat, humidity, sun, wind, rain, snow and cold.
• Manual dexterity for office tasks and physical activities.
• Vision requirements include near and far acuity; must be able to hear, speak, and communicate effectively.
• Must be able to walk up to 3 miles, hike, sit, crouch, bend, kneel, stoop, and reach; lift, push, pull, and lift up to 40 pounds unassisted.
• Vision requirements include near and far acuity; must be able to hear, speak, and communicate effectively.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:  
• Minimum age: 18 years.
• Interest in and respect for working with children.
• Passion for art and experience with various art mediums.
• Enthusiasm for the natural world.
• Ability to balance fun and silliness with maintaining appropriate boundaries.
• Flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to interact effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Strong work ethic and commitment to the mission of the Backcountry Wilderness Area.
• Candidates with childcare experience must provide proof during the interview.
• Current certifications in adult and pediatric First Aid, AED, and CPR (or the ability to obtain them before employment).
• Availability to work a minimum of 7 weeks during the 10-week camp season (May 27–August 1, 2025).
• Mandatory attendance at staff training from May 19–May 23, 2025.

Must pass a pre-employment background check and drug screening.

Benefits:   Benefits for part time employees include Paid Sick Leave, EAP (Employee Assistance Program), Tuition Reimbursement, Employee Discounts (30%) for Programs and Events, Referral Program, Recreation Center usage.

401k plus company match and Health Insurance, Telehealth and Flex Plans after one year if the minimum hours requirement is determined.

Education:  Working towards, or completion of, bachelor's degree in a related field such as early childhood education, elementary education, art history, art education, science education, recreation, or a human services field is preferred.

Experience: Over 460 hours of professional childcare experience required.

Application Submittal Deadline: 1-31-2024

EOE

$15-$18/hour – Entry level, minimum previous childcare or environmental education experience

$18-$22/hour – Considered a lead under licensing requirements (over 460 hrs childcare experience. See Colorado State Licensing Rules and Regulations)

$22-$25/hour – All of the above qualifications plus college degree and/or 3+ years professional experience

$25-28/hour – All of the above qualifications plus college degree and or 5+ years professional experience