PATHS Camp Counselor

Job Summary

Youth Education is seeking passionate individuals to join the team as a PATHS Residential Counselor. The PATHS Program prepares prospective first-generation high school students to achieve their full potential and pursue higher education. Counselors will work with groups of up to 20 students each week at the University of Utah's campus for 8 weeks of camp plus 2 weeks of training and planning.

PATHS Counselors are leaders, mentors, educators, and advocates for PATHS students and their communities. They supervise and ensure the safety of students during camp, teach and lead program curriculum, develop and coordinate enrichment activities, supervise during overnight stays, and act as positive role models. Applicants must pass applicable background checks in order to be hired.

Counselors will be contracted on a temporary basis from May 16, 2026 through July 31, 2026. Some weekend work may be necessary. They will not be scheduled to work on holidays.

• Team Training and Planning: Friday, May 16 - Friday, May 29 | 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
• Orientation Event: Saturday, May 30, 2026 | 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
• Day Camps: Monday, June 1 - Thursday, July 2 | 8:00am - 4:00 pm
• Residential Camps: Monday, July 6 - Thursday, July 23 | 8:00am - 4:00 pm
• Team and Individual Debriefing: Monday, July 27 - Friday, July 31 | 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Camp Counselors will work approximately 40 hours per week excluding weekends during both day and residential camps. Shifts may vary depending on programming needs and are subject to change.

• Counselors will be required to complete 2 weeks of training prior to the start of camp.
• Meals will be provided during camp programming using Dining Dollars.

Responsibilities

1. Assist in the direction, supervision, and organization of students during activities and throughout the camp in order to meet the intended outcomes.
   1. Assures students are properly supervised at all times.
   2. Applies basic youth development principles such as relationship development, respect, involvement, and empowerment of youth while working with students.
   3. Be aware of and enforce program policies and procedures.
2. Develop and implement activities for students in accordance with the program mission.
   1. Lead and teach program curriculum during camps.
   2. Plan and prepare elective lessons or activities to engage students as needed.
3. Maintain high standards of health and safety.
   1. Follow and uphold all safety and security rules and procedures.
   2. Be alert to students and staff needs and assist them with personal and/or health problems; discuss with camp director when appropriate.
   3. Be alert to equipment and facilities to ensure proper utilization, care, and maintenance is adhered to; report necessary repairs promptly to camp director.
4. Be a role model to students and staff in your attitude and behavior.
   1. Set a good example for students and others including cleanliness, punctuality, personal language, appearance, health habits, sportsmanship, and manners.
   2. Provide opportunities for discussion of individual or group problems or concerns.
5. Represent PATHS when interacting with parents, University of Utah staff/faculty/students, and community members.
   1. Provide participant guardians appropriate feedback and information as needed for their students to have a successful camp experience.
   2. Adhere to program policies and procedures when students are in public while presenting a positive image of the camp.

Minimum Qualifications

Three years experience as a classroom assistant in a related academic area, or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience); knowledge and understanding of a variety of teaching methods in order to adjust activities/training session to include participants of different ages; a thorough knowledge of related academic subjects in order to participate in developing classroom activities/programs; and demonstrated knowledge of teaching methods and communication skills to conduct educational activities and/or training sessions in a clear and concise manner required. Demonstrated human relation and effective communication skills are also required.

Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.

Preferences

• At least 21 years old
• Majors in human development, education, social work, psychology, or other related fields
• Have a valid driver's license and good driving record