Specialty Staff
Position Type: Volunteer
Position Description
Specialty staff are volunteer positions that serve specific functions. Unlike most other roles that are members of a specific team, specialty staff members will operate largely independently. Current positions are as follows:
Photographer
Take clear photos of a range of camp activities.
Keep camera charged and in good condition.
Upload photos to the appropriate folders at the end of each day.
Sort photos according to photo sharing permissions and quality.
Give and get support through regular check ins with other cabin counselors.
Communicate and advocate for the needs of the campers, and escalate issues when necessary.
Communicate effectively and compassionately with coworkers and campers.
Perform all duties considerate of a range of experiences and needs, with a focus on creating an accessible environment and experience for all.
Other tasks and duties as needed and assigned.
Transportation
A valid driver’s license and clear driving record is required.
Drive golf carts (AKA Mobility Carts) safely around the camp grounds to support campers and staff with mobility needs and transportation of luggage and other supplies.
Work with Accessibility Coordinator to establish best practices for mobility cart users.
Note any issues with functioning of golf carts and inform leadership of any needs, including gas or repair.
Be present and responsive to requests for transportation via walkie talkie.
Give and get support through regular check ins with other staff members.
Communicate and advocate for the needs of the campers, and escalate issues when necessary.
Communicate effectively and compassionately with coworkers and campers.
Perform all duties considerate of a range of experiences and needs, with a focus on creating an accessible environment and experience for all.
Other tasks and duties as needed and assigned.
Security Staff
Security staff are responsible for notifying leadership staff of any unknown or suspicious parties attempting to gain access to camp spaces, as well as detecting and deflecting interest from any suspicious parties during the onsite camp sessions, and escalating situations to police intervention when necessary.
This position will be worked in two shifts- morning to midday, and midday to late evening. In the event of an emergency, security staff are responsible for being the first contact with emergency services including police, fire, and EMS. A non-exhaustive list of responsibilities includes:
Check in with all incoming vehicles throughout the week
Maintain radio contact with other staff
Remain visible to visitors during check-in and check-out
Respond to radio pages about security concerns
Communicate effectively and compassionately with coworkers and campers.
Other tasks and duties as needed and assigned.
Specialty staff's exact duties will be tailored according to skills, experience, and need. However, all staff should be prepared to assist with the general needs of camp, including supervising campers and living in a cabin.
For an outline of a typical day at camp, see this webpage.Â
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Things you’re likely to encounter as a Camp Staff Member in a typical camp week
teenagers
insects, arachnids, and other wildlife
animals such as frogs, raccoons, deer, and bats
muddy or uneven ground
inclement weather including high temperatures, humidity, and thunderstorms
unexpected situations like power outages
well water
dorm-style showers
overwhelmed, overstimulated, and/or homesick campers, as well as campers with sensory needs
open air sleeping conditions (without air conditioning or immediate access to power)
a range of unpreventable medical events including injury, illness (see also: Infectious Disease Policy), affecting you or others
meaningful connections and new friendships
trans joy
As staff, you will provide a good example for interacting with the environment of camp. Many of the listed items, while maybe stressful, uncomfortable, or unfamiliar, are not inherently unsafe. Being in new situations can be an opportunity for growth and learning for both you and our campers and you are expected to provide a role model for campers in experiencing new situations with a positive attitude.
Physical Requirements
Traversing up to half a mile at a time (with or without reasonable accommodation), likely multiple times a day
Navigating uneven terrain such as muddy trails (with or without reasonable accommodation, e.g., a personal walking stick or mobility aid) with tree roots, gravel paths, inclines, stairs
Accurately exchanging information via active listening and verbal communication with other staff members and with campers in a timely manner
Remaining present and attentive for all assigned shifts with all necessary equipment (e.g., walkie talkies)
Meeting all camp vaccination requirements, including vaccinations for: MMR, Td/Tdap, Varicella, Meningococcal, Hepatitis, and COVID-19 (including booster within 1 year of camp attendance)
Read our Accessibility Policy, including common and available accommodations and accommodations we are unable to provide.
Exceptions to these requirements can be made with permission from the director, and as long as all camper and staff needs are met. Exceptions may also be made for emergency circumstances.