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.
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What This Job Offers
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
