Iowa United Methodist Conference Center

Summer Staff

Job Qualifications:

● Active Christian faith and commitment to living out the mission of Welsey Woods

● Passion for building others up in the context of Christian community

● Willingness to support the theological doctrines and practices of the United Methodist Church

● At least 18 years of age

● First Aid/CPR Certified

● Successful completion of a background check (required prior to employment)

● Ability to:

○ Work collaboratively in a team environment

○ Facilitate positive relationships between campers, parents, and peers

○ Perform physically demanding tasks (e.g. hiking, lifting heavy objects)

○ Receive and offer constructive feedback in a healthy manner

○ Think creatively and solve problems in fast-paced or high-stress settings

○ Model care for creation and environmental stewardship

Job Responsibilities:

Summer Staff members will rotate on a weekly basis through a variety of roles during the summer, including but not limited to:

● Cabin Shepherd:

○ Supervise and mentor a small group of campers in daily activities and cabin life both in- post and outpost

○ Lead and carry out worship, Bible study, and group initiatives

○ Foster an inclusive environment that encourages personal growth, faith development, and community belonging

○ Communicate effectively with camp leadership and parents as assigned

○ Ensure the emotional and physical safety of all campers under their care

● Support staff:

○ Support camp logistics including meals, water coolers, maintenance, setup, and cleanup

○ Provide behind-the-scenes support to ensure smooth operation of all camp programs

○ Provide break/support to cabin shepherd or activity leader as assigned

○ Demonstrate flexibility, initiative, and a spirit of service in all assignments

● All Staff Expectations:

○ Participate fully in staff training

○ Receive the following training/certifications during on-site staff training (depending on eligibility and availability): lifeguarding, high ropes, archery, and driver (age 21+)

○ Understand, practice and follow all ACA standards and state regulations.

○ Integrate the 7 Foundations of United Methodist Camp & Retreat Ministry into your day- to-day ministry

○ Lead camp activities such as canoeing, high ropes, crafts, archery, and more

○ Lead camp programs like worship, waterfront, campfire as scheduled

○ Live on-site during the summer and contribute to the overall camp community

○ Foster creation care and sustainability by maintaining cleanliness standards

○ Maintain a commitment to safety, inclusion, and excellence in all aspects of camp life

Physical Aspects of the Position:

 Ability to communicate and work with groups participating (age and skill levels) and provide necessary instruction to campers and staff.

 Ability to observe camper behavior, assess its appropriateness, enforce appropriate safety regulations and emergency procedures, and apply appropriate behavior-management techniques.

 Ability to observe staff behavior, assess its appropriateness, enforce appropriate safety regulations and emergency procedures, and apply appropriate management techniques.

 Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to environmental and other hazards related to the activity.

 Physical ability to respond appropriately to situations requiring first aid. Must be able to assist campers in an emergency (fire, evacuation, illness, or injury) and possess strength and endurance required to maintain constant supervision of campers.

Other duties may be assigned to this position.

Commitment and Compensation:

● Full summer commitment required (typically mid-May through early August). Up to one week of vacation may be granted without pay, pending director approval.

● Includes on-site housing and meals for the duration of employment

● Weekly salary starting at $400