Policies for our staff

Though an immensely rewarding job, being a camp counselor is a physically and psychologically demanding job. Counselors must be physically and mentally fit to adapt to the long days, lack of privacy, and constant needs from campers. Because camping is an important part of the Friendly Pines program, the staff need to cook over an open fire, sleep on the ground, and sacrifice all the conveniences of home or what some may refer to as "civilization" - all done with cheer and a positive, "can-do" approach. Not only must counselors be able to work under these conditions, but they also must retain the essential counselor qualties of patience, kindness, honesty, integrity, emotional stability, maturity of judgment and a desire to work hard. Previous experience with school age children is helpful and desirable, but Friendly Pines believes that it is more important for counselors to have a sincere and unselfish desire to learn about the children entrusted to their care. Though we can't lay claim to the description, it's apt to characterize the prospects of being a camp counselor as the hardest job you'll ever love.

Friendly Pines maintains a policy which ensures that campers are supervised 24 hours a day for the duration of their stay. THE WELL-BEING OF EVERY CAMPER IS PARAMOUNT! Cabin counselors live with 4 to 8 children, grouped in cabins according to age and grade. These counselors will live and sleep in the cabin, spend "siesta" time with the campers, supervise camper living habits, and guide the campers in their selection of activities. At meal times, two staff members will sit at each table with 10 children. Counselors are involved in those activities where their teaching skills can be best utilized. On occasion, though, counselors may be asked to "assist" in activities in which they are not particularly experienced. (However, they are not expected to be the Head, but rather they assist and help with supervision.) Counselors also take part in "special days", outcamping, evening games and activities, square dances, weekly cook-out meals, and so on. We have great confidence in our staff to carry out all duties and responsibilities, however discussion and/or questions are encouraged should special situations arise.

Below are specific job qualifications. Staff members must:

Be at least 18 years of age.
Have some college education, preferably one year minimum.
Be able to provide proof of permission to work in United States.
Have NO dependents or pets at camp.
Be free of outside commitments during camp dates.
Be a non-smoker during dates of employment.*
Be a non-user of alcohol during dates of employment.*
Be Drug Free.*
Be able to walk one mile in twenty minutes over uneven, hilly ground.
Be able to work length of average camp day, approx. 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. minimum (until 11 p.m. if on night duty).
Be willing to submit to a professional background check.
Be willing to submit to a pre-employment drug tests and random drug tests.
Provide a complete and signed Health History Form/Physical, on a timely basis, performed after April 1, 2007.
Attend a weekly, non-denominational inspirational services.
Attend a weekly, traditional Native-American-themed ceremony to honor and recognize all campers.
Be able/willing to adapt to a menu that is designed to satisfy the greatest number of tastes and needs.
Be able to perform the essential functions of the job without unreasonable accommodation.

*IMPORTANT: FRIENDLY PINES CAMP ASPIRES TO BE A DRUG/ALCOHOL/ SMOKE/TOBACCO-FREE ENVIRONMENT. ANY VIOLATIONS OF THIS POLICY WILL NOT BE TOLERATED. DRUG TESTING WILL BE A CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT.

Grooming and Dress Policies

It is extremely important that all counselors present themselves in a fashion that assures the campers, their parents, and the public that the Friendly Pines staff is more than competent in the field of caring for children. Our grooming/dress code requirements for ALL staff include:
1. Neatly groomed, non-extreme hair styles for all; must be kept out of the face and may not be shaved to the skin. For males: trimmed above the collar, out of the eyes, and no ponytails.
2. No visible tattoos or body piercings. Earrings for females only: small stud-type earrings (maximum two pair) in the lobe only, and not extending below the ear lobe.
3. Simple, but appropriate, clothing. No visible undergarments; no sleeveless, low neckline, bare-shoulder or sheer shirts; no bare tummies; no immodest or drooping shorts/pants. Shorts must be of fingertip length. Modest, one-piece swimsuits, please. Bandanas are not acceptable head-wear for male staff members.

Finger-printing may also be requested as a condition of employment. If you feel you would have any difficulty at all in complying with the above policies and requirements, please do not apply.