Overnight Summer Camp Adaptive Leader - Camp Marston

YMCA of San Diego County • Julian, CA

3d • $104 - $109 • Onsite

About The Position

The Overnight Camp Adaptive Leader coordinates and provides direct support to facilitate the inclusion of campers ages 7–17 with special needs in Overnight Camp. The role helps ensure programming is accessible, equitable, and differentiated for participants’ needs. The leader develops individualized support plans with parents or guardians and camp leadership, provides one-on-one camper support, and consults with and trains general camp staff in inclusive practices. The position requires living on-site for the full camp session and remaining available to respond to camper needs, emergencies, and unforeseen situations, including overnight. The leader promotes camper safety and well-being and contributes to an inclusive, welcoming, and enriching camp environment as a positive role model and collaborative member of the camp organization.

The position includes mandatory staff training on May 27, 2027, followed by the summer camp season from June 6 through August 7, 2027. The schedule is six days per week. Weekly pay is $621.06–$655.06, with a stated daily equivalent of approximately $103.51–$109.17. Free on-site meals are included, and on-site housing is provided with a weekly housing cost deducted from the paycheck. The role is exempt from overtime under the organized-camp counselor exemption described in the posting.

Requirements

• High school diploma/GED or training sufficient to read and write at the level necessary for successful job performance, supplemented by specialized training in childcare, special needs, healthcare, or a related field.
• At least one year of experience working with children ages 7–17 with special needs, or related experience.
• Visual and auditory ability and physical capacity to identify, assess, and respond effectively to critical incidents and emergencies.
• Current knowledge of relevant inclusion, equity, and safety guidelines and standards for individuals with special needs in recreational settings.
• Knowledge of practices for supporting people with diverse physical, cognitive, behavioral, and developmental needs, such as autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and mobility impairment.
• Ability to modify and differentiate camp activities to support physical and cognitive accessibility while maintaining program goals and experience.
• Conflict-resolution and problem-solving skills for sensitive issues involving campers and parents or guardians, with a positive and collaborative approach to teamwork.
• Ability to build trust and supportive relationships with campers, parents or guardians, and colleagues.
• Strong organizational skills for managing, documenting, and tracking individualized support plans, scheduling needs, and camper logistics.
• Ability to provide constant, nurturing support in a demanding environment and serve as a positive role model.
• Excellent verbal communication and an approachable demeanor when interacting with children, parents or guardians, and community members.
• Proficient oral and written communication, including active listening and the ability to explain individualized support plans to staff and communicate empathetically with campers and parents or guardians.
• Ability to live on-site for the full program season and maintain professional standards in shared areas with staff and campers.
• CPR/AED and First Aid certification covering adults and children/infants, obtained within 30 days of hire from the American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or American Safety & Health Institute.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement individualized support plans and behavioral strategies so campers with special needs can participate in typical Overnight Camp activities.
• Adapt and modify camp programming, including skits, games, songs, crafts, and major events, to enable accessible and meaningful participation.
• Design and maintain an age-appropriate learning environment that encourages creativity and individual expression and accommodates diverse learning styles.
• Provide one-on-one support for assigned campers’ physical, behavioral, social, and emotional needs.
• Work with parents or guardians and unit leaders to assess activity areas, materials, and schedules in advance and address potential barriers to participation.
• Communicate daily with parents or guardians about campers’ progress, challenges, and successes.
• Respond promptly to critical incidents, emotional distress, or changes in camper needs to ensure safety and comfort.
• Model positive behavior, conflict resolution, and social skill development.
• Act as the primary liaison among parents or guardians, camp administration, and general staff regarding accommodations and camper welfare.
• Coach and consult with general camp staff on disability awareness, best practices, and effective inclusion techniques.
• Fulfill residential duties and remain available to supervise, assist, and comfort campers throughout the night.
• Follow and model camp rules, operating procedures, and emergency protocols, taking assigned campers’ accommodations and safety needs into account.
• Promote a welcoming and nurturing camp culture centered on equity and belonging.
• Help maintain clean facilities and care for and inventory equipment and supplies, while practicing stewardship of the natural environment.
• Participate in camp chores and activities as requested, which may include cleaning cabins and bathrooms, assisting with evening programs and special events, and contributing to larger projects.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Free on-site meals.
• On-site housing is provided; a weekly housing cost is deducted from the paycheck.
• Employee perks are referenced through the YMCA of San Diego County benefits page, but specific additional benefits are not listed.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED