Summer Counselor Positions
Working Together For a Common Goal
When the boys come to the Island, they make a commitment to put the community first. Oftentimes, that means putting aside their own personal desires for the greater good of the group. We expect no less of ourselves as Mayhew Staff, and are therefore looking for people who are willing to take on whatever challenge the community asks of them. With this in mind, every staff member (new or returning, summer or full-time) enters staff week ready to fill whatever position is required of him/her. Only a few members come to the Island knowing exactly what role they will fill (usually those who are certified swim instructors, lifeguards, or medical personnel), and even they may end up doing a different job than they expected. There is also the possibility that one’s job will change during the summer as needed.
That being said, we will work hard to make sure that each staff member’s skills are put to the best use for the boys. Please, look over the positions below and let us know if you think you have more to offer in a certain area. And don’t worry if you’re not an expert in any one field. The staff community always has a mix of many different talents, and the greatest asset a Mayhew staff member can possess is simply the willingness to go wherever he or she is needed.
We consider each staff member a “Program Facilitator.” As you’ve probably already figured out, Mayhew is not your average summer camp, so the people we hire are not looking to be your average camp counselors.
_original_JPG.jpg)
Adventure
The Adventure counselor facilitates all challenge-course activities including group initiatives and high-element climbing events. This position requires prior facilitation experience and technical expertise with both low-rope and high-rope activities. Adventure on the Island emphasizes group cooperation, group problem solving, and group trust.
Art
Mayhew’s Arts Program gives the boys a chance to express themselves creatively, while teaching them some basic techniques they can use at home. A focus on teamwork is still central, and the boys are encouraged to collaborate on several different group projects. Art counselor responsibilities include developing and implementing creative activities for the boys, as well as finding more and more ways to integrate their artwork into Island life.
Athletics
Counselors for the athletics program will help direct coaches, serve as referees/umpires, and teach basic athletic skills in softball, basketball, floor hockey, and soccer. Sportsmanship and team play are heavily emphasized.
Hiking
Day hikes taken throughout the session require a capable staff leader with considerable outdoors experience and excellent physical condition. Must be 21 and have a good driving record to drive Mayhew vehicles to off-Island trails.
Rowing
Our competitive rowing program is an excellent team activity for the boys, and a strong staff member is needed to facilitate the practices and events. The boats are seven-man Whitehall fiberglass rowing dories. Rowing expertise is not as important as communication skills, teaching ability, enthusiasm, and common sense.
Swimming
This position requires Water Safety Instructor & Life Guarding certifications (or willingness to acquire them before the start of the Mayhew summer), along with strong swimming skills, good communication skills, patience, and common sense. Swim counselors are responsible for instructing the boys in American Red Cross certified swimming at all levels.
Cabin Counselor
Cabin Counselors are responsible for leading the boys through the daily Island routine. The best analogy for this job is that of the stay-at-home parent. Usually, each cabin group will have two counselors, with one staff member leaving the group during the day to facilitate an activity (athletics, swimming, etc.) and the Cabin Counselor staying with the boys to lead them from activity to activity.
Link-Up Counselor
Link-Up trips are what the older Mayhew guys do once they graduate the Island phase of the program. Trip leaders are charged with taking a group of 12-17 year olds out on five day outdoor trips. The trips most commonly offered are canoeing, backpacking, and mountain biking. Outdoor trip experience is preferred, but not required. Applicants must be 21 years or older with a clean driving record.
Kitchen Manager
Former campers of Mayhew can apply to work in the camp’s kitchen as a summer job (ages range 14-17). The Kitchen Manager works with those young adults. While primarily responsible for the food aspect, the kitchen manager plays a role in making sure the kitchen staff members stay on task, are being safe, and that meals are being run smoothly. The kitchen manager debriefs with the staff after each meal, and spends time with them during downtime. Much of the job is teaching these young men how to be young professionals. An interest and comfort working with teenagers is needed. Former kitchen experience is ideal.