Travel Camp Surf Instructor

Spend a month in Costa Rica!  WB Surf Camp is looking for experienced surf coaches to guide teen summer camps in the Guanacaste province of Costa Rica.  Take a look over the job requirements and apply today!  Applicants must be available to work July 8, 2022 - August 8, 2022.

Job Overview

Overview

Travel Camp Counselors must be multi-talented, service-oriented individuals with a strong desire to provide surf and ocean safety instruction to campers. Our program attracts teens from all over the world that have the desire to learn how to surf and experience the local culture unique to California and Costa Rica. Applicants must have a passion for marine stewardship, teaching, inspiring youth, and surfing. This position requires candidates to work as part of a team to inspire, instruct, and provide care to a group of travel campers. Surf instruction experience is not necessary. Candidates will go through our surf instructor training and certification program at no cost.

Travel Camp Counselors will be responsible for daily surfing instruction, facilitation of a variety of evening activities, logistical support and daily van driving responsibilities. Logistics are a key element of our overnight travel camps and include equipment management and maintenance, evening program set-up and break-down, and other duties as assigned. This position will also assist with coordination of arrival and departure of campers. Last but not least, Travel Camp Counselors must ensure that all staff and campers stay safe while having an awesome and life-enriching experience. This position reports to the Unit Leader.

 Skills and Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• BA or BS in marine biology, environmental science, education, recreation, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• At least 25 years of age
• Must be in excellent physical condition, and able to lift 50lbs unassisted
• Ability to pass a 500 yard open-ocean swim test
• Current certifications: Lifeguarding, CPR and First Aid
• Must have 3 years surfing experience + possess a broad knowledge of surfing fundamentals
• Experience in marine science, environmental education, summer camp counselor
• For international travel programs, a current passport will be required
• No conflicting summer commitments including travel, work, or other leave of absence
• Proven ability to effectively manage staff and organize campers
• Able to pass a government background check + clean driving record

Desired Skills

• Master’s in marine biology, environmental science, education or related field
• Wilderness First Responder Certification
• Foreign language fluency (Spanish preferred)
• Previous trip leading experience and experience in a summer camp setting
• Familiarity with local marine ecosystems and organisms
• Environmental education certification or teaching credential
• Excellent critical thinking and problem solving skills
• Strong desire to change the world for the better through education and action
• Willing to work long hours while maintaining energy and stamina
• Strong communication, decision making, logistical, and organizational skills
• Team player with a positive attitude, even when things are not going smoothly
• Loyalty, honesty, and a commitment to excellence

 Responsibilities and Duties

Working in collaboration with other staff members, you will provide 24-hour supervision for campers, both in the rooms and in the field. Individual must maintain a strong skill set in the following areas: organization, punctuality, problem solving, as well as have a solid attention to detail. These skills are crucial in order for you to provide the best possible experience for each camper.

The following skills are crucial for goal-setting, prioritization, strategy development, adherence to policies and procedures, and time management. It is of utmost importance to be pro-active and forward thinking. It is the responsibility of Counselors to ensure the safety and well-being of all campers and unit staff.

Staff responsibilities include, but may not be limited to the list below.

• Maintain the highest level of risk management, responsibility and sound judgment at all times
• Provide consistent support to staff team, by handling tasks and duties, delegating duties to staff, and focusing on campers’ safety and schedule
• Responsible for the implementation of program curriculum and consistent day-to-day activities
• Work closely with vendors/partners to provide a deeply enriching experience for our campers
• Attend all scheduled pre and post trip meetings with the leadership team
• Perform all pre-session tasks, including but not limited to: arriving at the camp location prior to the start date, reviewing camp binder, preparing for camper arrival, contacting clients and ensuring all supplies are prepared and accessible
• Coordinate camper check-in and check-out; picking up campers from the airport on the first day and on the last day, remaining at the airport until the last camper flight departs
• Organize and help prep facilities and clean vehicles at the end of each camp session
• Complete all post-session tasks; including but not limited to: completing binder checklist, clean-up, program and supervisor evaluation, and inventory of supplies
• Participate in daily team meetings to go over any camper issues, logistics and schedule
• Make quick decisions throughout the day based on weather and wave conditions
• Practice open communication with your team; communicate any issues immediately
• Ensure that budgets are met
• Organize, develop and implement program curriculum
• Prepare and lead hands-on, educational activities
• Supervise campers and actively participate in all activities
• Put camper needs before own; get to know each camper
• Provide proper behavior management of campers; handle camper discipline issues and emergency situations that may arise
• Serve as a positive role model, display maturity, responsibility, flexibility, and sound judgment
• Oversee participants safety, medication administration, and dietary preferences
• Safely transport students in 15 passenger vans
• Follow proper Emergency Procedures when necessary
• Clearly understand company goals, high safety standards, and mission; continuously work to professionally promote the organization’s mission and achieve its goals
• Be knowledgeable of Surf Camp, Inc. as a company, as well as our diversity of programs

Compensation

We offer a stipend, commensurate with experience, and the inclusion of pro-deal opportunities. In addition, the compensation package will include accommodations/meals during the summer program and flights to/from the program site.

Special Benefits

• Uniform Package
• Pro-Deal Opportunities
• Room & Board