Camp Assistant (51977)

Position Summary:

Under the direction of the Summer Extravaganza Program Director and in accordance with the association and policies of WestCare Texas, the Camp Assistant’s main role is to assist the Summer Extravaganza staff, teachers, and program vendors in leading groups and providing fun and safe experiences for children. The Camp Assistant will lead by example and help the youth participants acquire a feeling of high self-esteem, self-worth and competence in a summer learning setting. The Camp Assistant will help his/her group and its members assert their interests and expand their ideas and knowledge. The Camp Assistant will be responsible for the ensuring safety and well-being of youth participants in the summer program.

Essential Job Functions:

• Assist in supervision of youth participants and all areas of program utilization. 
• Assist in guiding and directing groups in a variety of activities.
• Help adult staff and teachers maintain responsibility for youth participants at all times.
• Promote hands-on activities, self-esteem, cultural diversity, and creative expression.
• Help establish a semi-structured setting with smooth transition periods while allowing for flexibility.
• Help youth participants adjust and grow respectfully toward other youth participants and staff.
• Provide leadership and role modeling for teens, staff, and children.
• Use appropriate identified corrective steps to help prevent and eliminate discipline problems as directed by adult staff.
• Maintain all WestCare Texas standards, values, and rules.
• Be aware of all safety hazards and report them to adult staff. 
• If necessary, take immediate steps to address or reduce potential risks (wet floors, trip or fall hazards, etc.) provide immediate first aid for minor injuries (scraps, cuts, or falls and immediately notify adult staff for further action.
• Ensure no distraction or interference with the delivery of activities (no reading, texting, talking on cell phone, or wearing headphones while on duty).
• Be aware of the location of each assigned youth participant at all times.
• Help ensure safety and cleanliness of program area and equipment.
• Inform adult staff/teachers of equipment needs including first aid.
• Attend staff meetings and trainings as required.
• Maintain good communication with adult staff, teachers, vendors and parents.
• Perform other related duties as assigned or as required.

Essential Qualifications:

Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent and two (2) years of college-level education is preferred.
• Texas teacher certification is preferred.

Experience and Competencies:

Mission Advancement

• Demonstrates and models the values and mission of WestCare Texas and the Summer Extravaganza Program.
• Exhibits a genuine commitment to serving youth, families, and the community.
• Builds positive, respectful, and supportive relationships with Junior Counselors and program participants.
• Creates an inclusive, welcoming environment that promotes teamwork, safety, and personal growth.

Collaboration

• Works effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds, abilities, perspectives, and experiences.
• Establishes strong working relationships through respect, empathy, and professionalism.
• Seeks to understand others' viewpoints before responding and remains composed during challenging situations.
• Communicates clearly, actively listens, and contributes positively to team discussions.
• Takes initiative to mentor, support, and encourage the development of peers and Junior Counselors.

Operational Effectiveness

• Exercises sound judgment and applies lessons learned to improve performance and decision-making.
• Embraces innovation and continuously seeks opportunities to enhance the participant experience.
• Supports program objectives by planning activities, completing assigned tasks, and actively participating in meetings and trainings.
• Consistently strives to meet or exceed program expectations while delivering a high-quality experience for all participants.
• Demonstrates responsible stewardship of program resources, including activity supplies, equipment, games, food, water, and other materials.

Personal Growth

• Demonstrates a commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
• Maintains a positive attitude toward change and actively seeks opportunities for growth and improvement.
• Exhibits self-awareness by recognizing personal strengths, limitations, and the impact of individual behavior on others.
• Possesses and continually develops the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform assigned duties effectively.
• Accepts feedback constructively and applies it to enhance job performance and contribute to team success.