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Ropes Course Specialist

• Day Camp
• Congressional School
• Specialist

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Camp Dates

Ropes Course Specialist

About the role
Ropes Counselors deliver challenge-course sessions under the supervision and direction of the Ropes Director. You’ll focus on safe facilitation, equipment/PPE checks, and positive group experiences using approved SOPs and lesson plans, supporting a “challenge-by-choice” environment.

Responsibilities

• Facilitate low- and high-element activities as assigned by the Ropes Director, using approved SOPs.
• Conduct daily visual/function checks per checklist; set up/close down elements and maintain orderly staging areas; document as directed.
• Fit and verify PPE (helmets, harnesses, lanyards) to campers and counselors.
• Belay and supervise per training, maintain ratios, and provide constant oversight.
• Maintain rescue readiness (e.g., belay escape/assisted lower) and participate in drills led by the Ropes Director.
• Monitor weather/heat index and enforce holds, boundaries, hydration, and behavior expectations.
• Care for gear (ropes, webbing, carabiners, pulleys) within scope; report damage/hazards immediately to the Ropes Director.
• Uphold “challenge-by-choice”; adapt activities for varied abilities per Director guidance.
• Complete incident/accident reports and other logs accurately; communicate promptly with camp leadership.
• Meet or exceed ACA practices and Virginia child day program licensing standards.
• Maintain professionalism and confidentiality; be punctual, prepared, and flexible; perform other duties as assigned by the Ropes Director/Camp Director.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience facilitating challenge-course or climbing activities with youth (camp, school, outdoor ed).
• Challenge Course training/certification (or ability to obtain before the season and keep current).
• Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED (or ability to obtain and maintain)
• Strong risk management, clear communication, and calm decision-making under pressure.
• Comfortable working outdoors at height; able to lift/move ~40–50 lbs and manage ladders as trained.

Eligibility: Must be at least 18 years old by the first day of employment and able to pass required background checks per School and Virginia regulations.