Kids Camp Counselor

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the general supervision of the Kids Camp Director, the Kids Camp Counselor supports the YMCA’s mission by creating a safe, engaging, and inclusive environment for campers. This role fosters youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility through structured activities, mentorship, and positive interactions. Counselors ensure the safety and well-being of campers while encouraging personal growth through various teamwork and camp learning experiences.

• This is a seasonal position scheduled for 40 hours per week, seasonal employees do not receive benefits.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Lead and participate in engaging daily activities with assigned camper group to promote camper development and self-confidence through structured games, arts and outdoor recreation.
• Supervise campers to ensure their safety and well-being by monitoring behavior and maintaining a secure environment while following all licensing guidelines.
• Facilitate teamwork and social interaction to build positive relationships among campers through group projects and cooperative games.
• Coordinate with fellow camp counselors in the weekly planning and implementation of all program activities while engaging with the group.
• Communicate effectively with parents to keep them informed of camper progress and events through verbal updates.
• Work closely with the Teen Lead Counselor weekly, providing leadership opportunities and supervision to ensure growth of assigned Junior Counselors.
• Promote YMCA character values to foster a positive, supportive and inclusive camp culture through role modeling and daily interactions.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must be at least 18 years of age and have completed high school or its equivalent.
• Prior experience working with school-age children is preferred.
• Must have good communication skills, a cooperative attitude and the ability to relate well with children.
• Must be CPR certified.

COMPETENCIES:

• Accountability: Takes ownership of decisions, actions, and results.  Follows through on commitments and accepts responsibility.  Completes assigned tasks on time and accepts feedback without defensiveness. Adheres to established policies and procedures.
• Adaptability: Welcomes and respects all participants by valuing diverse backgrounds and abilities. Adapts activities to ensure every child feels included and supported.
• Communication: Listens actively and speaks clearly with children, families, and team members. Shares information in a timely and respectful manner to promote understanding and cooperation.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Works effectively with colleagues to achieve program goals. Demonstrates reliability, cooperation, and mutual respect in all interactions.
• Trustworthiness: Demonstrates honesty, integrity, and reliability in all interactions. Follows through on commitments and maintains confidentiality of sensitive information. Acts consistently with organizational values and ethical standards to build confidence and respect among children, families, and colleagues.
• Conflict Resolution: Addresses disagreements or concerns calmly and constructively. Listens to all perspectives, identifies underlying issues, and works collaboratively toward positive solutions. Seeks guidance when needed and promotes understanding, cooperation, and respect among participants and staff.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Work is performed in an outdoor camp environment.
• Moving about freely is essential to assist co-workers and campers.

This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position and is not an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, or qualifications. Additional tasks may be assigned as needed to support organizational goals.  Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.