What if I plan to take a vacation this summer?
If you plan to be away this summer, and would not be able to work a number of days during camp, it could hinder you from being hired. It is very difficult for us to find coverage when staff is gone, which could lead to unsafe ratios between campers and staff. It is very important that all staff is able to work 8 hours every day of camp.
When will I know where I am placed? Can I choose my placement?
What are they looking for in a background check?
Because you will be working with children, it is imperative that there is nothing on your record that involves the mistreatment of children and any criminal offenses and convictions. We are also looking for any other red flags that may indicate how you will perform as an employee.
How long does a background check take to clear?
A background check will ideally take anywhere from 10 to 20 days to clear. If there is a conviction found on your criminal background, an investigator will be assigned to you and will contact you regarding inquiries to finalize your clearance. If you do not hear anything about your clearance after a period of 20 days, please contact [email protected].
Can I reschedule my suitability check?
NO. Your suitability clearance is scheduled at any point within a 30-day timeframe from your potential start date. Once scheduled and instructed to attend, you are not permitted to reschedule unless extenuating circumstances arise, in which you must provide evidence. If you do not provide evidence of the purpose of your rescheduling and do not appear at your scheduled appointment, you will be automatically disqualified from potential employment with DPR for Summer 2013 as well as Summer 2014.
How many kids will be in my camp?
Camp size depends on location and enrollment. We try to keep the ratio between children and adults as small as possible. For Little Explorers camps (ages 3-5) typically the ratio is 5:1 and for all other camps, the ratio is typically 15:1.
Am I responsible for creating the activities or is there a curriculum we must follow?
We do provide a curriculum for Little Explorer and Discovery camps that we recommend to be used as a guide. We strongly encourage staff to be creative and add their own ideas and personality to the curriculum. What is most important is that camps are engaging, enriching, and structured.
When would I receive my first paycheck? How often would I get paid?
The date of your first paycheck receipt will vary based on your effective start date. You will be provided with a detailed payroll schedule at your HR Orientation. Employees are paid every two weeks.
Will there be any opportunities for me to move into a full-time position with DPR?
DPR is constantly looking for talented and motivated individuals to add to our staff, and we take notice if a summer employee really excels in their position. An offer for full-time employment would depend on your performance during the summer, and the availability of positions in the fall. For full time positions with DPR, please visit www.dchr.dc.gov and check employment opportunities.