Summer Camp Assistant

Animal Protective Association of Missouri•Saint Louis, MO

2d•$17•Onsite

About The Position

The APA Summer Camp Assistant supports the Summer Camp Director in delivering engaging, safe, and meaningful summer camp experiences for children. This role assists with daily camp activities, camper supervision, humane education programming, and logistics while fostering a positive, fun, and respectful learning environment centered on compassion for animals and people.

Requirements

Demonstrated commitment to excellence and a strong passion for the mission and work of the APA.
Experience working with children in a camp, school or youth program required.
Ability to perform work in a classroom setting within an animal shelter, including occasional lifting, moving, and carrying of items up to 25 pounds.
Must also be able to stand for long periods and walk for distances up to .5 miles when necessary to oversee camp activities and field trips.
Due to the nature of working with children, a satisfactory background check will be required to ensure the safety and well-being of all camp participants.

Responsibilities

Assist with the daily operations of the APA Summer Camp, including activity setup, cleanup, and transitions between programs.
Support the Camp Director with preparation and execution of daily schedules and lesson plans.
Supervise campers during activities, ensuring safety, inclusion, and positive engagement.
Maintain accurate headcounts and assist with check-in and check-out procedures.
Monitor camper behavior and redirect as needed to maintain a safe, respectful environment.
Assist with supervising the volunteer camp counselors.
Assist with delivering age-appropriate humane education activities that promote empathy, kindness, and understanding of animal welfare.
Support interactive lessons, crafts, games, and animal-related educational experiences.
Reinforce camp rules and expectations in a calm, consistent, and supportive manner.
Communicate behavioral concerns or incidents promptly to the Camp Director.
Assist during supervised animal interactions, modeling appropriate behavior and ensuring safety for campers and animals.
Help campers understand animal body language, respectful handling, and shelter animal care concepts as directed by camp leadership.
Communicate professionally with campers, parents/guardians, volunteers, and APA team members.
Assist with addressing parent questions during check-in and check-out, escalating concerns to the Camp Director when appropriate.
Report camper concerns, injuries, supply needs, or maintenance issues to the Camp Director promptly.
Help maintain clean, organized, and safe camp spaces.
Remain flexible and responsive in a fast-paced environment.
Represent APA’s mission, values, and culture positively at all times.