At a Glance
- Tasks: Guide kids in fun activities and help them make their own choices.
- Company: Join the vibrant team at Steve & Kate's Camp in Cambridge.
- Benefits: Earn $15.50 - $18.00 per hour with potential sick time benefits.
- Other info: Dynamic camp environment with opportunities for creativity and play.
- Why this job: Empower children while having a blast and developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Must be 16+, with experience working with kids and First Aid/CPR certified.
Location: 5 Cadbury Rd, Cambridge, MA 02140
Camp Dates: 6/15/2026 (Mon) - 8/21/2026 (Fri) - additionally, one weekend to set up, one weekend to breakdown, and an orientation date
Camp Hours: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm (actual shifts will vary)
Hourly Wage: The hourly rate for this position is $15.50 - $18.00 per hour. Actual compensation offers within this range will depend on experience and other relevant business or organizational factors.
At Steve & Kate's, we put radical trust in kids so that they learn to trust themselves. Campers choose minute-to-minute how to spend their time because making decisions today helps to build the self-confidence they’ll need to wrangle unknowns tomorrow. We value empowering our staff to be their whole authentic selves because everyone in our community needs to feel included!
Job Responsibilities:
- Facilitating activities, making connections, and monitoring safety and wellness.
- Creating and/or overseeing activity spaces in which campers will self-select activities.
- Working in rotating support roles throughout camp.
Activities include sewing, stop-motion animation, maker space, performing arts, arts and crafts, lounging, recreation, and so much more!
Additional Job Responsibilities:
- Actively supervising campers.
- Maintaining an organized and approachable activity space.
- Ensuring compliance with Camp Policies.
- Reporting & Recording details of notable concerns or incidents, and of injuries to campers, other staff members, or self.
- Keeping track and being aware of camper allergies and dietary restrictions.
- Adding daily updates and photos to campers’ profiles.
How do you know if you’re the right candidate?
- Does the idea of guiding kids while they make decisions for themselves excite you?
- Are you calm under pressure and able to calm those around you?
- Are you comfortable leading groups of kids on your own while still collaborating with a team?
- Do you have the stamina to keep up with 4-12 year olds bursting with energy and creative potential?
- Can you lift up to 40 pounds?
- Are you passionate about sharing your knowledge & learning something new?
Job Requirements:
- At least 16 years of age.
- Minimum of 2 months experience working with camp-age children, with 1 year preferred, in either a professional, personal or volunteer setting.
- First Aid & CPR certified prior to Day 1 of Camp (some locations may require additional certifications).
Physical Requirements:
- Comply with all applicable federal, state, local, Steve & Kate's Camp, Bright Horizons’, and client site requirements concerning immunizations, employment physical/screening, and health and safety training.
- Work in person in a school-aged camp setting to provide supervision, care, program delivery, and services per Steve & Kate's Camp and Bright Horizons’ policies, procedures and guidance.
- Maintain and follow all safety and health rules of the location.
- Organize and maintain clean and accessible activity spaces.
- Assist in camp set-up and breakdown during move-in and out weekends.
- Stand for long periods while supervising children and facilitating activities.
- Participate in athletic games.
Benefits: Where local regulations mandate, this position is eligible for sick time.
Deadline to Apply: This posting is anticipated to remain open until April 15, 2026.
Summer Camp Substitute Counselor - Cambridge employer: Steve & Kate's Camp
At Steve & Kate's Camp in Cambridge, we foster a vibrant and inclusive work culture that empowers our staff to be their authentic selves while guiding children through creative play. With opportunities for personal growth and leadership development, you'll collaborate with a diverse team and engage in meaningful activities that inspire self-confidence in campers. Join us for a rewarding summer experience where your passion for working with kids can truly shine!
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Summer Camp Substitute Counselor - Cambridge
✨Get Involved in Local Community Projects
One of the best ways to land a temporary role in social work is to dive headfirst into local community projects. Volunteer your time or skills at local charities or community centres to not only gain experience but also to connect with professionals in the field. They might just have some insider knowledge on temporary positions that pop up!
✨Engage with Social Work Networks
Join online forums and social media groups specifically for social workers. Platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn have dedicated groups where professionals share temporary job opportunities. Being an active member can help you stay in the loop and even get recommendations from those already in the field.
✨Attend Workshops and Seminars
Keep an eye out for workshops, seminars, or conferences related to social work in your area. These events aren't just great for learning; they're also hotbeds for networking! You never know who might be hiring or can point you towards a temporary position while you're soaking up new skills.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website!
When you spot a role that piques your interest, especially for a temporary position, make sure to apply directly through our website! This not only shows your commitment to Steve & Kate's Camp, but also gives you an edge by putting your application right in front of the hiring team. Let’s get you moving on that path to your next opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Summer Camp Substitute Counselor - Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let's highlight why you're passionate about social work and how your values align with those of Steve & Kate's Camp. Share specific experiences where you made a difference, as this field thrives on genuine motivation and connection.
Demonstrate Relevant Experience:When listing your experience, focus on any internships, volunteer roles, or temporary positions you've had in social work or related fields. Those skills are gold! Think about situations where you helped individuals or communities, and don't forget to mention any relevant certifications, like safeguarding or mental health first aid.
Keep It Concise and Relevant:Remember, for a temporary role, hiring managers want to see how you fit in and can hit the ground running. Keep your CV clear and to the point, showcasing only the experience that really matters for the role at Steve & Kate's Camp. We recommend a two-page limit – make every word count!
Emphasise Flexibility and Adaptability:Considering this is a temporary position, it's vital to show you can adapt to new environments quickly. In your application, highlight any past experiences where you had to adjust to different teams or roles smoothly. This shows you understand the nature of temporary work and are ready for the challenge!
How to prepare for a job interview at Steve & Kate's Camp
✨Sharpen Your Empathy Skills
In social work, it's all about understanding and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Make sure to prepare some examples from your experience where you've demonstrated empathy and resilience. Practising active listening techniques can help you articulate your approach during the interview with Steve & Kate's Camp.
✨Know Your Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with key social work theories and frameworks, like the ecological systems theory or person-centred approaches. These concepts might pop up during your interview for the temporary Summer Camp Substitute Counselor - Cambridge role at Steve & Kate's Camp, so it's good to have a couple of insights ready to share.
✨Highlight Flexibility and Adaptability
Since this is a temporary position, showcasing your flexibility is key. Be prepared to discuss past experiences where you quickly adapted to new environments or changing client needs, which is crucial in the dynamic world of social work.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions that test your decision-making skills and ethical judgement. Think about how you would handle specific challenges you might face in the field. Having a clear structure for your answers will show Steve & Kate's Camp that you can think critically and act effectively under pressure.
