YMCA Camp Greider - Counselor 2026
About The Position
Camp Greider has been offering unique and high quality summer camps to youth, ages 6-15 since 1978. Instruction in a variety of specialty topics is combined with a well-rounded outdoor summer day camp program experience at our beautiful location out in West Salem. A convenient check in/out location at the downtown Salem Y, and extended daytime hours add to the popularity. Youth attend one or more weeks throughout the summer. Age appropriate groups are kept to a small, 1:8 ratio of adults to youth for a fun summer experience for all. The Camp Counselor is responsible for planning and leading camp activities as well as guiding campers in their personal growth and social-emotional skills. They are leaders for a specific group of campers each week, and provide supervision, support, and guidance for their group, while acting as a role model within the camp community.
Requirements
- Age 18 or older
- Experience working with youth ages 6-15
- Experience implementing youth activities and supervising youth in groups of 8 to 20
- Willing and able to swim & physically play with youth on a daily basis
- Flexible, creative and articulate
- Ability to work in an outdoor environment and display an appreciation and understanding of the natural environment to campers.
- Individual is capable of effective and appropriate mental, emotional and social responses in a constantly changing, youth-centered environment
- Must be available during all of the following date: June 14 - June 20 (Mandatory All-Staff Training) June 22 - August 22 (Camp Season & Move-Out)
- Completion of all staff training prior to the program start date or training due dates. Training is provided as needed after hiring.
- Must be CPR and First Aid certified or willing to become certified within the first 30 days of employment. (Certification classes available upon employment.)
- Current Oregon Food Handler’s Certification, or ability to obtain certification.
- All candidates must have reliable transportation.
- Job offers are contingent upon completion of a rigorous criminal history background check.
Nice To Haves
- Training in child development, elementary education, early childhood, recreation, or similar fields
- Experience in a day camp, recreation or school age care setting
- Organized and highly responsible
- Experience working as a member of a team
- Customer service or public relations experience and training
Responsibilities
- Provide a safe environment for youth ages 6-15
- Supervise and participate with groups of youth in a variety of indoor and outdoor activities, including swimming, games, arts/crafts, archery, boating and more.
- Plan and lead organized games and other age appropriate activities.
- Interact and relate with youth and serve as a positive role model.
- Work as a team with other Counselors, Lead Program Staff, Instructors and Supervisors
- Assist with daily set-up, daily clean-up, and transportation.
- Carry out the goals, themes and schedule of the program to provide a consistent and high quality experience.
- Maintain knowledge of association policies, procedures, risk management, and safety practices
- Demonstrate commitment to quality, the YMCA’s core values, and joy in working with youth of all ages
- This job description may not be all inclusive and employees are expected to perform all other duties as assigned and directed by management. Job descriptions and duties may be modified when deemed appropriate by management.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
