Day Camp Counselor (ages 3 - 5) - Full-time / Part-time

The Discovery School Day Camp is a special place for children to have fun, grow new friendships, discover nature, and have the freedom to be themselves! We strive to inspire a culture of kindness, curiosity, and connection to one another as well as the world around us. Our Discovery kids spend their days exploring our 7 acre nature campus - climbing in our nature playground, building forts in the woods, relaxing by the pond, creating art, playing group games, working in the garden, and having water fun!

Position: Day Camp Counselor (ages 3 - 5)
Reports to: Camp Director
Time Commitment: M-F (40 hours/week); 6/1/26 - 7/31/26
Compensation: $18/hour

PRIMARY PURPOSE: Playful Pollinator counselors inspire curiosity, wonder, and joy in children while
keeping them safe and engaged throughout the day. Counselors are responsible for guiding camper
groups through daily schedules, leading both indoor activities and outdoor nature adventures, and
creating a positive and inclusive camp experience.

Responsibilities & Expectations

Professionalism & Collaboration
● Arrive rested, on time, and maintain consistent attendance for all 8 weeks.
● Communicate any absences with as much advance notice as possible.
● Build positive and professional relationships with campers, families, and fellow staff.
● Support and uphold the mission and policies of The Discovery School Day Camp.
● Approach challenges with creativity, problem-solving, and a sense of humor.
● Respect individual differences in learning styles, culture, and perspectives.
● Maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive information about children and families.
● Model conflict resolution by addressing issues directly and collaboratively.

Health & Safety
● Ensure the physical and emotional safety of all campers.
● Document incidents and notify parents promptly when required.
● Follow all camp health and safety guidelines and state regulations regarding abuse or neglect.
● Stay calm and follow the Emergency Plan in case of emergencies.
● Be able to lift or support children (~50 lbs or more) as needed.
● Stay informed weekly about camper names, approved pick-ups, allergy information, lunch
preferences, and other parent-provided details.

Operational Responsibilities:
● Use the Jumbula app to access camper profiles and communicate with families.
● Maintain organized, safe, and clean camp environments.
● Build positive relationships with campers and promote self-esteem.
● Implement positive discipline approaches and follow the Code of Conduct in the staff and family
handbook.
● Report signs of illness, injury, or emotional distress to the director.
● Plan and set up daily activities, refreshing supplies as needed.
● Lead daily programming with your camper group, including games, activities, transitions, meals,
and clean-up.
● Work collaboratively with the Playful Pollinator team to ensure smooth routines and camper safety.
● Greet families by name at drop-off/pick-up and share positive updates while maintaining
confidentiality.

● Support an inclusive environment for campers with diverse abilities by implementing the
accommodations and strategies specified in their individual camper plans.
● Facilitate indoor and outdoor activities in all weather across our 7-acre nature campus.
● Be physically able to fully participate in camp activities: lift, reach, squat, climb, sit, and move freely. 

Qualifications
● Must be 18+ years old.
● High school diploma required; college coursework or degree in a child-related field preferred.
● Love and willingness to serve children and their families.
● Strong commitment to The Discovery School Day Camp’s mission.
● Strong organizational, multitasking, and time-management skills.
● Positive, collaborative approach and ability to stay calm under pressure.
● Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
● Willing to obtain and maintain all required clearances and certifications and documentation:

• ■ PA Criminal Background Check
• ■ PA Child Abuse Check
• ■ FBI Criminal Background Check
• ■ NSOR
• ■ Act 31 Online Training
• ■ Clearances must be valid through at least August 1, 2026

Required health and employment documentation:

• ■ Health Form
• ■ Disclosure Statement
• ■ Arrest or Conviction Form
• ■ Required camp health and safety training
• ■ Employment Verification Form(s) of at least 2 years or 2500 hours experienceworking with children
• ■ Two non-family reference letters
• ■ College transcripts
• ■ Willing to obtain CPR and First Aid certification during paid staff training week.

What We Offer & Our Commitment

This is more than a summer job, it’s an opportunity to spark curiosity, foster confidence, and
create lasting memories for children while developing your skills as an educator and leader!

• $18/hr pay.
•  Paid CPR and First Aid certification during staff training week.
•  Supportive, values-driven camp environment focused on inclusion, safety, and growth.
•  Hands-on experience leading programs, activities, and outdoor adventures.
•  Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on children’s lives and summer experiences.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT:
The Discovery School is fully committed to Equal Employment Opportunity and to attracting, retaining,
developing and promoting the most qualified employees without regard to their race, gender, color,
religion, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, citizenship status, veteran
status, or any other characteristic prohibited by state or local law. We are dedicated to providing a work
environment free from discrimination and harassment, and where employees are treated with respect and
dignity