Summer Camp 2026: Lead Counselor

Gallatin Valley YMCA • Bozeman, MT

12d

About The Position

POSITION SUMMARY: Responsible for the planning, execution, and overall operation of a high-quality school-age child care camp site. This includes promoting YMCA core values and encouraging life-long learning. Develops and implements summer camp activities while supporting the Camp Director in leading efforts to create a safe environment for healthy, positive child development and strong family relationships while mentoring and supporting program staff (50% of workload). Provides direct supervision of a group of children aged 5-12 in summer day camp while providing a quality experience to children and parents focused on YMCA core values: honesty, respect, responsibility, and caring (50% of workload).

Requirements

• Bachelors Degree or Associate Degree in a related field or a Child Development Credential or at least 2 years of experience in a leadership role in summer camp setting.
• 21 years of age preferred.
• Must be able to pass a Criminal Background Check.
• Infant/Child/Adult CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications within 30 days of hire date.
• Ability to plan, organize and implement age-appropriate/developmentally appropriate program activities.
• Previous experience with diverse populations. Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with people from different backgrounds.
• Must demonstrate leadership qualities-allowing for the development of personal and professional interpersonal relationships with staff, campers, parents, and others.

Nice To Haves

• Previous camp program design experience.
• Previous experience working with children in a developmental setting.

Responsibilities

• Creates and schedules all camp sessions and activities to be reviewed and approved by Camp Director.
• Supports camp counselors in daily implementation of lesson/activity plans.
• Directly supervises program participants, lead counselors, counseling staff and volunteers in accordance with organizations, policies and applicable laws.
• Maintains program site, equipment and program records.
• Confirm and coordination of camp field trips and events.
• Purchases and maintains supply expenses for camp activities that have been outlined on the camp budget and approved by the Program Coordinator.
• Monitors transportation for field trips.
• Ensures guidelines from program models are met such as HEPA standards and Camp Readers Program. Ensures all program records are accurate and maintained.
• Supports Camps and Family Program Director and Program Coordinator in assuring that YMCA best practice guidelines are being followed, program standards are met, and safety procedures are being followed.
• Supports Camps and Family Program Director and Program Coordinator to train, develop, schedule and direct personnel and volunteers as needed. Participates in reviews and helps evaluate staff performance.
• Provides upkeep of program facilities and equipment, and ensures the physical environment supports healthy living.
• Supports Camps & Family Programs Director and Program Coordinator in supervising staff, children, sites, and all activities.
• Maintains positive relationships and effective communication with parents. Engages parents as volunteers.
• Supports staff with parent interaction and behavioral plans.
• Plans, attends and participates in family nights, program activities, staff meetings, and staff professional development opportunities.
• Supervise a group of children with a creative, fun, positive attitude.

What This Job Offers