Overnight Summer Camp Adaptive Leader - Camp Surf

YMCA of San Diego County • Imperial Beach, CA

3d • $104 - $109 • Onsite

About The Position

The Overnight Camp Adaptive Leader coordinates and provides direct support to facilitate the successful inclusion of campers ages 7–17 with special needs in Overnight Camp. The role ensures that programming is accessible, equitable, and differentiated to meet participants’ needs. Responsibilities include developing individualized support plans with parents or guardians and camp leadership, providing one-on-one support, and consulting with and training general camp staff. The position requires living on-site for the full camp session and remaining available and responsive to address camper needs, emergencies, and unforeseen situations. The leader supports camper safety and well-being, helps deliver quality programs, and contributes to an inclusive, welcoming, and enriching camp environment as a positive role model and collaborative member of the camp organization.

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

Requirements

• High school diploma/GED or training that ensures the ability 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, including autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and mobility impairment.
• Ability to adapt and differentiate camp activities quickly and effectively while supporting physical and cognitive accessibility and maintaining program goals.
• Conflict-resolution and problem-solving skills for addressing sensitive issues with campers and parents or guardians while maintaining a collaborative approach with staff.
• Ability to build trust and supportive relationships with campers, parents or guardians, and colleagues.
• Strong organizational skills for managing and tracking individualized support plans, communicating scheduling needs, and coordinating logistics.
• Ability to provide constant, nurturing support in a demanding environment and serve as a positive role model.
• Excellent verbal communication skills and a warm, approachable demeanor when interacting with children, parents or guardians, and community members.
• Proficient oral and written communication, including active listening, explaining support plans to staff, and communicating empathetically with campers and parents or guardians.
• Ability to live on-site for the full program season and maintain professional standards in shared spaces with staff and campers.
• CPR/AED and First Aid certification covering Adult and Child/Infant, obtained within 30 days of hire and issued by the American Red Cross, American Heart Association, American Safety & Health Institute, or YMCA.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement individualized support plans and behavioral strategies to include campers with special needs in typical Overnight Camp activities.
• Adapt general camp programming, including skits, games, songs, crafts, and major events, to support accessible and meaningful participation.
• Design and maintain an age-appropriate learning environment that fosters creativity, individual expression, and diverse learning styles.
• Provide one-on-one support addressing campers’ physical, behavioral, social, and emotional needs.
• Collaborate with parents or guardians and unit leaders to assess and prepare activity areas, materials, and schedules to address participation barriers.
• Communicate daily with parents or guardians about campers’ progress, challenges, and successes.
• Maintain situational awareness and respond promptly to critical incidents, emotional distress, or changing camper needs.
• Model positive behavior, conflict resolution, and social skill development.
• Serve 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, inclusion practices, and effective support techniques.
• Fulfill residential duties, remaining responsive and available throughout the night to assist and supervise campers and provide comfort.
• Follow and model camp rules, operating procedures, and emergency protocols, taking campers’ accommodations and safety needs into account.
• Promote a welcoming camp culture that prioritizes equity and belonging.
• Help maintain clean facilities and care for and inventory equipment and supplies, while practicing environmental stewardship.
• Participate in general camp chores, which may include cleaning cabins and bathrooms, assisting with evening programs and special events, and contributing to projects as requested by the Program Director.
• 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 Employee Benefits link.

What This Job Offers

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