Outdoor Youth Counselor
Eckerd Connects
posted 4 months ago
About the position
Eckerd Connects' Camp E-Nini-Hassee is seeking passionate individuals for the role of Outdoor Residential Youth Counselor. This position is designed for those who have a bachelor's degree and a love for the outdoors, aiming to make a positive impact on the lives of at-risk teenage girls aged 12 to 17. As an Outdoor Youth Counselor, you will live on-site with the girls, providing essential daily support and guidance. Your responsibilities will include overseeing their hygiene, offering therapeutic support, and facilitating group counseling sessions that address various challenges faced by the girls, such as low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and family conflicts. The role is immersive, requiring a commitment of 24 hours a day for five days a week. You will engage the girls in therapeutic outdoor adventures, including canoeing, backpacking, and ropes course activities, all aimed at fostering personal growth and resilience. The position also involves implementing outdoor education programs and receiving training in CPR/First Aid, Lifeguarding, and other essential outdoor safety protocols. This is not just a job; it’s an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young women while enjoying the beauty of nature. In addition to the rewarding experience of working with youth, the position offers a comprehensive benefits package, including low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance, 19 days of paid time off in the first year, and a retirement savings plan with employer matching. Free room and board are provided, along with meals during work hours, making this an attractive opportunity for recent graduates looking to start their careers in social services or outdoor education.
Responsibilities
- Provide daily hygienic oversight and therapeutic support to 10-12 teenage girls.
- Facilitate group counseling sessions related to emotional and behavioral challenges.
- Implement outdoor education programs, including canoe trips, backpacking, and ropes courses.
- Participate in training for CPR/First Aid, Lifeguarding, and outdoor safety.
- Role-model appropriate behaviors and develop relationships with the girls.
- Manage crises and support problem-solving and team-building activities.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in a social or human service field.
- Willingness to work a 24-hour, five-day work week.
- Ability to role-model and share in the emotional experiences of teenage girls.
- Physical ability to stand for extended periods and walk regularly in wilderness terrain.
- Positive attitude in outdoor settings with exposure to various weather conditions.
- Pass a drug screen in compliance with the Substance Abuse and Drug-Free Workplace policy.
Nice-to-haves
- CPR Certification
- Experience in social work or youth counseling
- Knowledge of outdoor education and therapeutic activities.
Benefits
- Low-Cost Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
- 19 days of Paid Time Off the first year
- 11 paid holidays
- Retirement savings plan with employer match up to 5%
- Flexible spending accounts
- Paid short-term and voluntary long-term disability
- Group Term Life and AD&D Insurance
- Voluntary term life insurance
- Free room and board provided in an on-campus house for days off
- Meals provided when on duty
