JOB TITLE Support Counsellor
JOB TYPE Seasonal Summer Camp Position
REPORTS TO Camp Coordinator
SALARY Starting at $168/day
CLOSING DATE Position will remain open until filled
START | END DATE June 21, 2025 | August 22, 2025
ABOUT CAMP POTLATCH
Located on 133 acres along the picturesque shores of Howe Sound, Camp Potlatch is a rustic wilderness site that provides a natural gateway into the rugged landscape of British Columbia’s South Coast. Sandy beaches and unspoiled hiking territory create an idyllic environment to work, explore and play! Even though it is less than an hour from Vancouver, the camp is truly isolated in pristine wilderness and is only accessible by boat. Wildlife sightings include – but are not limited to – whales, seals, porpoises, bears, and bald eagles! Adventure starts here!
Camp Potlatch staff work to provide campers (children and youth ages 7-16) a fun, safe camping experience with a variety of programs including canoeing, kayaking, rock climbing, archery, etc., as well as a 24-hour out-trip, either by land or by sea, where campers can sleep under the stars and help prepare their own meals. At Camp Potlatch, we believe that every kid is amazing and capable of incredible things. We recognize that it’s the relationships fostered between our campers and staff team which empower children to be their best person.
ABOUT THIS POSITION
The Support Counsellor is responsible for providing support to designated cabins and campers to ensure inclusion and success within the cabin and greater camp community.
The type of support given to cabins and designated campers may vary from week to week but could look as follows: one-on-one support where a Support Counsellor would live in a cabin and assume 24/7 responsibility for an identified camper, or the role may require adapting/modifying programs to meet the needs of designated campers.
Other duties may include helping organize and facilitating camper transportation, assisting in camp program areas, and managing camper lost & found/laundry.
The Support Counsellor ensures that each child at camp has a happy, safe, and successful camp experience. The team will be involved in creating individualized program and behaviour plans in collaboration with Camp Coordinators and parents. Given the versatility of this role, it is imperative that the Support Counsellor is patient, compassionate, self-motivated, and resourceful. Knowledge and experience of working with children who have a range of social/emotional/developmental needs is a must.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Must be at least 19 years old by July 1, 2025
- Experience working in a Cabin Leader, Area Head, or Day Camp Leader role at an overnight summer camp or day camp
- Previous experience working with children with exceptionalities
- Previous experience facilitating a variety of programming for youth
- Proven behaviour management skills
- Able to work independently as well as part of a team
- Post-secondary courses/training in a related field
- Clear Criminal Record Check (Vulnerable Sector)
REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS (Must obtain before June 21)
- Non-Violent Crisis Intervention Training
- Standard First Aid with CPR “C”
- National Lifeguard (NL)
- Pleasure Craft Operator’s Card an asset
- Mental Health First Aid considered an asset
- FOODSAFE Level 1
Please refer to the staff application guide for more details about requirements for specific positions.
https://www.bgcbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2025-Staff-Application-Guide-2025-updated.pdf.
Note, we encourage everyone to apply. Suitable applicants may be offered positions without meeting minimum qualifications if they are able and willing to obtain qualifications prior to the start of their work contract.
WORKING AT CAMP POTLATCH
- A summer living and working on the ocean!
- Meals and accommodation provided, transportation (pick up and drop off from downtown Vancouver).
- Every other weekend off (flexibility with schedule required)
- Paid training and potential to apply and work in other positions and programs at BGC after summer
- Access to Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – confidential short-term counselling, online resources and information including support with mental, financial, physical, and emotional wellbeing.
- Up to 2 paid sick days following 30 days of employment, and paid birthday off (June through August).
HOW TO APPLY
To apply, please send a cover letter and resume to Juliana Benoit, summer@bgcbc.ca. Thank you in advance to all persons who apply for this position. Please note that only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
As it connects to our organizational core values, BGC encourages staff to show up as their best selves, including mutual respect, integrity, and accountability.
