Camp Counselor (Paid Internship Available)

Part-time $17.00 an hour. Paid time off. Free museum passes and discounts. The Camp Counselor (Crew Trainer) provides specialized supervision and guidance to youth ages 918 in an informal camp environment. Responsibilities include leading educational activities within the U.S. Space & Rocket Center (USSRC) museum and camp areas aligning with the organizations Mission Vision and Spirit. Depending on the assigned program track Crew Trainers instruct and motivate trainees in space history aviation robotics principles of flight and basic cybersecurity. Additional specialized training may be available for Crew Trainers interested in working with Early Learner/Day Camp groups (ages 58) adult and corporate programs educator groups and camper airport arrivals and departures.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Essential Functions

• Provide clear and knowledgeable explanations on space robotics cyber and/or aviation subjects and deliver lectures or briefings as assigned.
• Ensure trainees are well-instructed in all program content and activities for a successful and enjoyable experience.
• Escort and accompany trainees to all scheduled activities maintaining orderly behavior and a professional learning environment.
• Address personal issues trainees may face such as illness parent communication or lost items.
• Confirm transportation arrangements with the transportation department and communicate details to trainees.
• Act as a positive professional role model for trainees with no physical contact unless in a life-threatening situation.
• Instruct supervise and participate in swimming and water activities.
• Serve as a lead in specialized areas that require unique knowledge including Aviation Challenge Robotics Cyber Registration and Program Support.
• Participate in staff training sessions and mentor new team members.
• Perform additional related duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities: Yes

Level of Supervision: This position involves supervising trainees to ensure a safe structured and enriching camp experience. Responsibilities include guiding trainees through simulations and educational content on space robotics cyber and aviation; maintaining order and addressing any personal needs; and serving as a positive role model with a strict no-contact policy unless in emergencies. The Crew Trainer may also be selected for training in specialized areas like the Aviation Challenge Robotics or Cyber Camp programs and supports new staff through training and mentorship upholding high standards of safety professionalism and educational value.

Travel Required: Varies

QUALIFICATIONS

Required Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• A minimum of 30 completed college credit hours is preferred; equivalent life and professional experience may be considered in place of educational hours.

Required Experience

• 20 years of age and older
• Experience working with children in roles such as coaching tutoring or teaching is desired or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Previous experience in educational instructional camp military summer camp or space exploration settings is a plus.
• Must demonstrate excellent communication and instructional skills be a positive role model and exhibit strong leadership abilities.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• A valid drivers license and good driving record preferred.
• Willingness to adhere to the required dress code.
• Must pass drug and alcohol screen clear the State Central Registry on Child Abuse/Neglect upon employment a criminal background checks and other tests and required by management. The U.S. Space & Rocket Center does not hire convicted felons.
• Willingness to complete a four-week training period including passing practical and written tests to meet Center requirements.
• Option to serve as a Resident Assistant (RA) with room and board provided in exchange for rotating on-call duties. RA positions are assigned as needed based on the needs of the Center availability of housing and may require a secondary interview and housing references.

SPECIALIZATION REQUIREMENTS:

• Airport Crew Trainers: Must be able to obtain a TSA Sterile Area security clearance at Huntsville International Airport and meet USSRC drivers license and age restrictions to operate Center vehicles.

Physical Requirements

The role involves significant physical activity including walking and climbing (stairs hills and wooded terrain) to access various departments and areas within the training environment. Extended periods of standing (4-6 hours) may be necessary during shifts spent instructing and operating simulators. Crew Trainers must be able to carry and lift items up to 50 pounds to waist height as well as bend kneel and reach to store and retrieve supplies and operate simulators. Strong vision is required to effectively present lectures conduct briefings and lead instructional tours throughout the museum and facility. Effective verbal communication skills are essential for interactions with supervisors guests trainees and other staff members. Additionally Trainers must be comfortable and confident swimming and teaching in water environments free from fear or anxiety to ensure trainee safety.

Eligibility Qualifications

• Must be authorized to work in the United States.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Environmental Factors

This position requires the ability to work in an outdoor environment often in hot summer temperatures reaching up to a 105F heat index. Strong interpersonal skills and a commitment to continuous learning are crucial as is the ability to foster a supportive team-oriented environment. Crew Trainers must exhibit maturity sound judgment and accountability understanding how their actions affect others. Adherence to the Centers Safety Program and USSRC policies is mandatory with a focus on creating a safe goal-oriented environment for trainees. Trainers are expected to prioritize trainee health and safety following detailed safety practices while serving as positive role models who maintain high standards in both work and appearance.

Expected Hours of Work

Open availability required (Monday-Sunday from 6:15 am to 11:00 pm). Flexibility is essential as Crew Trainers must be available to work any shift (day night or weekend) with a primary shift assigned based on Center needs and personal preference.

Consideration to become Resident Staff (RS) requires full open availability (Monday-Sunday from 6:15 am to 11:00 pm) and be on-call during overnight hours at least one week a month.

DISCLAIMERS

The U.S. Space & Rocket Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race color religion sex pregnancy sexual orientation gender identity national origin disability or veteran status.

Duties and Responsibilities May Change with or Without Notice

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Required Experience:

Intern