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Junior Camp Counselor Volunteer

Become a Junior Camp Counselor Volunteer!

The Florida Aquarium is excited to welcome a new group of Junior Camp Counselors for Summer 2024! We are looking for responsible high school students, ages 14 – 17, who are interested in volunteering for the duration of the summer term, May 28 – August 2. Please keep in mind that this is a highly competitive program. Only students who exhibit the desire to serve with us and commit to the strict schedule outlined below will be accepted into this program. A complete application includes the submission of an application form, recommendation form, and an essay.

Applications are due by 5:00 PM on March 1, 2024.

group of kids dancing with a camp stafferJunior Camp Counselor Volunteer

Position Description

This program is designed to provide an overview of the many aspects of the Learning Department at The Florida Aquarium, as well as introduce the Junior Camp Counselors to a professional environment. By the end of the summer, our Junior Camp Counselors will have:

  • Learned about the marine environment and ways they can inspire others to care for it.
  • Delivered extraordinary customer service to our campers.
  • Practiced public speaking and/or classroom management.
  • Created their own program to further enhance the camper experience.

All Junior Camp Counselors are required to commit to the application schedule and training days listed below, as well as to serving two full days per week (8 hours per day) during the summer (May 28– August 2). Schedules will be determined prior to the summer to allow for scheduling around this commitment. Accommodations may be made for vacations or prior commitments within reason and with sufficient notice.

All Junior Camp Counselors will be required to pass a Level 2 background check prior to the beginning of their service. Fees will be reimbursed to those who complete their fingerprinting at the HR approved facilities.

Parents and guardians of applicants to the Junior Camp Counselor Program are asked to allow their child to be the primary point of contact for this application. Parents of selected Junior Camp Counselors are asked to support their child in their commitment as a Junior Camp Counselor by providing reliable transportation, helping ensure their child is prepared for each shift, and providing advance notice of any conflicts or need for time off so their child is able to communicate their scheduling needs directly to their supervisors.

Pre-Selection Dates

  • Friday March 1, 2024: Complete Applications Due by 5:00 PM (includes application, recommendation and essay)
  • Friday March 8, 2024: All Applicants Notified of Interview Status
  • Saturday March 23, 2024: Group Interview for Selected Applicants | 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
  • Thursday April 4, 2024: All Interviewed Applicants Notified of Acceptance Status

Required Training Dates

  • Saturday April 27, 2024 (OPTIONAL): Paperwork and fingerprint processing
  • Saturday May 11, 2024: Staff Training I | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Saturday May 18, 2024 (OPTIONAL): Staff Training II | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
  • Saturday June 22, 2024: Mid-Summer Workshop | 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Application Process

To apply for the 2024 Junior Camp Counselor program, please complete the application below no later than 5:00 PM on March 1, 2024. Applications will be reviewed after that date and candidates contacted about their interview status no later than March 8, 2024. Applicants who participate in the interview process will be notified about their acceptance status no later than April 4, 2024. A registration fee of $30 covers the cost of your uniform, access badge, nametag and other materials you will need. If this registration fee causes any hardship, we can work out other details for payment. There are a limited number of Junior Camp Counselor positions available – not all applicants will be selected.

Application Requirements

Essay Prompt: Describe a camp counselor or teacher who has been a good role model for you and how you hope to impact the campers you may work with this summer. This essay is required for all Junior Camp Counselor applicants and must be 500-1000 words.

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Application form     Recommendation form

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