Critter Camp Counselor at Richmond SPCA Susan M Markel Veterinary Hospital

Richmond, Virginia, United States -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

23 Apr, 26

Salary

0.0

Posted On

23 Jan, 26

Experience

0 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Supervision, Communication, Public Speaking, Creativity, Resourcefulness, Time Management, Attention to Detail, Teamwork, Animal Handling, Childcare, Positive Reinforcement Training, Inclusivity, Safety Awareness, Organization, Adaptability, Reliability

Industry

Non-profit Organizations

Description

Description Seasonal position (May 20 – August 28, 2026) Reports to Manager of Humane Education The Richmond SPCA is a non-profit organization located in the heart of Richmond, Virginia. As a leader in the field of animal welfare, we are cultivating a community committed to saving, protecting and enriching animal lives with a mission to provide education and resources to achieve and sustain a no-kill community. Annually, we rescue, rehabilitate and find homes for about 4,000 homeless animals while also providing our region with vital safety net programs designed to keep thousands of pets in loving homes and out of shelters. Our values of collaboration, creativity, honesty, inclusion and respect guide not only what we do – but how we do it. Critter Camp Counselors serve as the primary adults responsible for children during our summer and winter camp programs. Critter Camp activities include arts and crafts, learning about an animal shelter and a veterinary hospital operates, learning to train their own pets, and more. Each camp session includes time with the cats and dogs in our care. Essential Functions Supervise campers at all times – prioritizing safety – while following camp policies set forth by the Manager of Humane Education and the Chief Advancement Officer Serve as a positive role model for campers Work to ensure that all campers are comfortable and feel included Communicate with coworkers and management about incidents involving campers Assist in organizing and leading group activities throughout each week Supervise children attending Critter Camp Ensure the camp areas are kept clean and organized Maintain open and regular communication with the Manager of Humane Education Alert management when camp supplies may be running low Other related duties as assigned Qualifications, Skills, and Expectations Alignment with the Richmond SPCA’s mission to achieve and sustain a no-kill community – including promoting pet adoption and spaying/neutering – and to utilizing reward-based, positive reinforcement (R+) training methods Effective, professional, and empathetic communication (written and verbal) with the public, volunteers, and all Richmond SPCA employees Attitude that contributes to a welcoming, accessible, compassionate, and respectful atmosphere Previous experience with children or relevant education Uncompromising commitment to the wellbeing of children attending camp Public speaking skills Creative, resourceful, positive, get-it-done attitude Ability to multi-task, take and follow directions, and adapt to and productively accommodate changing demands – all with excellent attention to detail Punctuality and reliability are essential, as well as good time management and prioritization skills Able to work independently in a mature, professional, and productive capacity and as part of a team Maintain confidentiality as requested Requirements Have daytime availability Mondays through Fridays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. from May 20 to August 28 (somewhat flexible end date), including attending all required trainings and meetings before and during Critter Camp Have reliable transportation, including during inclement weather Be 18 years of age or older Physical Job Requirements Comfort handling or learning to handle both dogs and cats Able to safely work with animals (including those who are sick or injured or who have behavior challenges) Able to work around loud noises, cat litter, animal waste, and various chemicals Able to be on your feet for extended periods of time Able to routinely lift 25 lbs. Able to push/pull a large cart Able to kneel and stoop, and have physical strength to perform cleaning duties effectively and efficiently Work Environment Supportive, collaborative team environment that encourages and celebrates creativity and resourcefulness Rapid pace with exposure to potential hazards including animal waste, allergens (pet dander, peanut butter), and disinfectants Potential for animal bites and scratches and diseases that are zoonotic (can be transmitted from animals to people) Potential for exposure to common childhood illnesses and conditions including but not limited to flu, RSV, hand, foot, and mouth disease, head lice, and COVID-19 High levels of noise at times Richmond SPCA employees are eligible to become clients of our low-cost, full-service Susan M. Markel Veterinary Hospital and have access to an Employee Assistance Program.

Responsibilities

Critter Camp Counselors supervise children during summer and winter camp programs, ensuring safety and inclusion. They organize and lead activities while maintaining communication with management.