Camp Unit Head- Group Leader Ages 11-12

Old Colony YMCA•Middleborough, MA

27d

About The Position

The Senior Group Leader / Unit Head is responsible for leading a unit of campers ages 11–14 and supervising the counselors assigned to that group. This role focuses on creating a safe, supportive, and engaging environment for older campers while encouraging independence, teamwork, and leadership. The Unit Head helps guide staff, coordinate daily activities, and ensure campers have a positive and memorable camp experience.

Requirements

Minimum age requirement (typically 18+ depending on organization policies).
Experience working with youth, preferably ages 11–14, in a camp, school, or youth program setting.
Previous leadership or supervisory experience preferred.
Strong communication, organization, and conflict-resolution skills.
Ability to work outdoors and actively participate in camp programming throughout the day.
Current First Aid/CPR certification (or willingness to obtain before camp begins).

Nice To Haves

Strong leadership and mentoring skills.
Ability to connect with pre-teens and early teens.
Positive, energetic, and adaptable attitude.
Comfortable managing group dynamics and peer conflicts common in older age groups.
Creative in planning engaging activities for older campers.

Responsibilities

Lead and supervise a group of campers ages 11–14 throughout the camp day.
Foster a respectful and inclusive environment where campers feel safe and supported.
Encourage teamwork, responsibility, and positive peer relationships.
Support campers as they develop independence and leadership skills.
Manage camper behavior using positive and age-appropriate behavior management strategies.
Supervise and support counselors assigned to the unit.
Provide mentoring, guidance, and feedback to counselors to help them succeed.
Ensure staff understand daily schedules, expectations, and supervision responsibilities.
Help model professionalism and positive leadership for younger staff.
Help plan and facilitate age-appropriate activities, games, and team-building experiences.
Ensure the unit follows the daily schedule and transitions smoothly between activities.
Work with specialty staff (sports, arts, STEM, waterfront, etc.) to keep campers engaged and participating.
Help create opportunities for older campers to take on leadership roles within activities.
Serve as a communication link between counselors and camp leadership.
Report incidents, concerns, and camper needs to the Camp Director or leadership team.
Assist with communicating important updates or concerns with families when necessary.
Enforce all camp safety policies and procedures.
Conduct regular headcounts and maintain appropriate camper-to-staff ratios.
Assist with emergency procedures and ensure staff follow safety protocols.
Monitor camper attendance and ensure proper sign-in and sign-out procedures are followed.