Counselor (Overnight) - Entry Level

About Company:

Challenge. Transform. Empower.

“Challenge people through transformative educational and retreat experiences to realize their attitudes and actions have a lasting impact on their lives, communities, and the environment.”

Founded in 2005 on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay, NorthBay is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that creates transformative experiences that help people grow and lead with purpose. Each year, we serve over 20,000 middle school students through overnight and in-school environmental education and character development programs and have reached more than 300,000 students across the Mid-Atlantic. Through our rentals program, we also welcome thousands of organizations annually, expanding our impact through retreats and community-building.

About the Role:

Position Summary

The Overnight Counselor is responsible for supervising and supporting students during evening and overnight hours at an outdoor/resort-based science school. This entry-level role focuses on student safety, well-being, and engagement in a residential learning environment. Counselors help maintain a structured, positive atmosphere while fostering independence, community, and respect among students.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise students during evening, nighttime, and early morning hours in dormitory or cabin settings

• Ensure the safety and well-being of all students at all times

• Conduct room checks, enforce curfews, and monitor quiet hours

• Respond appropriately to student needs, including minor conflicts, homesickness, or medical concerns

• Support and model positive behavior, inclusion, and respect among students

• Assist with emergency response procedures and follow established safety protocols

• Communicate effectively with daytime staff regarding student behavior, concerns, and incidents

• Complete incident reports and maintain accurate documentation as required

• Help prepare students for the next day’s programming (wake-up routines, readiness, etc.)

• Maintain cleanliness and organization of residential spaces

• Facilitates discussions with students during cabin time relating to the theme/topic of the day

• Creating an environment that the students feel safe in and comfortable sharing in

• Assisting in first aid situations and/or the implementation of emergency procedures as directed by NorthBay policy.

• Communicating any issues or needs of individual campers or yourself to the appropriate staff member or camp coordinator/director

• Maintaining organization during breakfast and dinner meals –this includes sitting with your cabin during meals

• Sitting with the campers during NorthBay live and maintaining control during the show

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; some college coursework in education, environmental science, psychology, or related field preferred

• Previous experience working with children, teens, or in camp/residential settings is a plus but not required

• Ability to remain alert and responsive during overnight shifts

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills

• Ability to manage groups and maintain a calm, professional demeanor

• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire)

• Must pass background check and any required clearances

Skills & Competencies

• Patience and empathy when working with students

• Strong observational and problem-solving skills

• Reliability and accountability, especially in overnight supervision

• Team-oriented mindset with the ability to work independently

• Adaptability in a dynamic outdoor/residential environment

Working Conditions

• Overnight shifts, including weekends and holidays as needed

• Residential/outdoor setting with shared or semi-private accommodations

• May require walking between cabins/buildings during various weather conditions

Physical Requirements

• Ability to move around campus, including uneven terrain

• Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations

• Occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive hourly rate

• On-site housing and meals (if applicable)

• Training and professional development opportunities

Equal Opportunity Statement

NorthBay Education is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and students.

Skills:

The required skills enable the counselor to build trusting relationships with students and effectively communicate with diverse stakeholders, ensuring that each student’s unique needs are understood and addressed. Strong interpersonal skills facilitate collaboration with teachers, parents, and community partners to create a holistic support system. The ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise ethical judgment is critical in managing sensitive information and fostering a safe environment. Preferred skills such as familiarity with mental health resources and digital tools enhance the counselor’s capacity to provide timely and accessible support. Together, these skills empower the counselor to deliver impactful guidance that promotes student resilience and academic achievement.