Winter Day Camp Counselor
About The Position
The Day Camp Counselor leads and implements engaging activities for youth in kindergarten through 7th grade in a small-group setting. The counselor is responsible for participants’ general safety and for supporting their development, growth, and skill achievement. The role provides high-quality indoor and outdoor educational and recreational experiences centered on YMCA core values: caring, honesty, respect, responsibility, and inclusion. This is a seasonal position with schedules that vary according to programming needs. Day camp operates Monday through Friday between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., and staff shifts vary within those hours. Compensation is $15.21–$19.01 per hour, seasonal and non-exempt, up to 40 hours per week. The position involves 0–5% local travel within Michigan; occasional out-of-state travel may be required for educational conferences or training.
Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Education, classes, or experience in camp, youth programs, recreation, working with children, or a related field.
- Ability to lead, organize, and implement program activities.
- Ability to work as a team member and accomplish tasks with little direct supervision.
- Strong organizational and communication skills.
- Physical ability to lead and participate in camp activities, including swimming, team-building initiatives, physical games, and other activities.
- CPR certification required.
- First Aid certification required within the first 60 days.
- AED-Oxygen certification required within the first 60 days.
- Blood Borne Pathogen training.
- DHS clearance.
- Fingerprinting.
- State of Michigan criminal background clearance (ICHAT).
Responsibilities
- Organize and lead weekly small- and large-group activities, which may include crafts, nature activities, songs, games, ceremonies, swimming, archery, and canoeing; this includes time spent on the bus.
- Identify and respond to camper behavior issues.
- Keep identified camp spaces clean, organized, and free of litter.
- Communicate with parents about participants’ experiences and report concerns to camp leadership.
- Assist in maintaining accurate program records, including incident reports, logbook documentation, and daily attendance.
- Know and understand all camp emergency procedures.
- Know, enforce, and follow camp and program-area safety guidelines, including maintaining responsibility for campers’ safety and whereabouts at all times.
- Perform other functions necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids Association.
Benefits
- Free YMCA individual membership with full facility access.
- 12% employer retirement contribution upon eligibility, with no match requirement, and access to a 403(b) savings plan.
- Paid sick time.
- Ongoing training, development programs, and career advancement opportunities.
- Free, confidential Employee Assistance Program resources and counseling for the employee and family.
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What This Job Offers
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
