Overnight Summer Camp Counselor - Camp Surf

YMCA of San Diego County•Imperial Beach, CA
•$96 - $101•Onsite

About The Position

The Overnight Camp Counselor is responsible for the constant supervision, safety, and positive development of a group of 8–12 campers ages 7–17. The counselor provides overnight supervision in the sleeping quarters, teaches and leads engaging activities, strictly enforces camp safety protocols and policies, and serves as a positive, approachable role model. Because this is a residential role, the counselor must live on-site for the full camp session and remain available and responsive to camper needs, emergencies, and unforeseen situations. The counselor helps maintain a welcoming, genuine, and nurturing environment and contributes to a supportive staff team. The position pays $573.12–$623.10 per week, approximately $95.52–$101.18 per day. The schedule is six days per week. Free on-site meals are provided, and on-site housing is provided with a weekly housing cost deducted from the paycheck. The position is exempt from overtime under the stated organized-camp counselor exemption. Mandatory all-staff training is May 27, 2027, and the summer camp runs June 6 through August 7, 2027.

Requirements

  • High school diploma/GED or training that ensures the ability to read and write at a level necessary for successful job performance.
  • At least six months of experience working with children ages 7–17 in a day camp, resident camp, overnight camp, or similar setting.
  • Visual and auditory ability and physical capacity to identify, assess, and respond effectively to critical incidents and emergencies.
  • Ability to observe participant activities, enforce safety regulations, and apply camp policies and procedures to mitigate risk.
  • Physical ability to lead and participate in group activities and perform skills including standing, walking, hiking, and/or climbing for extended periods, often outdoors in varied weather.
  • Ability to plan, organize, and prepare materials and activity spaces so daily sessions start on time and run smoothly.
  • Excellent verbal communication skills and a warm, approachable demeanor with children, parents/guardians, and community members.
  • Ability to serve as a positive, mature, enthusiastic role model, demonstrating integrity, responsibility, and good sportsmanship.
  • Ability to work cooperatively within a staff team, take direction, and contribute positively to camp culture.
  • Ability to live on-site for the full program season and maintain professional standards with staff and campers in all areas at all times.
  • Must be fingerprinted before reporting to work; subsequent arrest notifications are included.
  • CPR and First Aid certification is required within 30 days of hire from the American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or American Safety & Health Institute.

Responsibilities

  • Assume full, 24-hour responsibility for a cabin group of 8–12 children ages 7–17, including evenings, overnights, meals, transitions, and activity periods, and respond promptly to needs, emergencies, or unforeseen situations.
  • Participate enthusiastically in camp activities, encourage camper participation, and adapt instruction to differing skill levels and needs.
  • Plan and prepare assigned activities in advance, ensuring materials are ready, areas are safe, and sessions meet learning or recreational goals.
  • Use effective teaching and leadership techniques to provide quality instruction and lead engaging, age-appropriate activities.
  • Enforce camp safety rules and operating procedures and implement emergency procedures when necessary.
  • Use sound judgment and conservative decision-making, prioritize campers’ physical and emotional safety, and use constructive techniques to manage behavior and mediate conflicts.
  • Serve as a positive role model by demonstrating maturity, good sportsmanship, and responsible behavior.
  • Help maintain clean facilities, care for and inventory equipment and supplies, practice stewardship of the natural environment, and perform general camp chores, which may include cleaning cabins and bathrooms, assisting with evening programs and special events, and contributing to larger projects as requested by the Program Director.
  • Work cooperatively with counselors, directors, and support staff and contribute to a positive staff culture.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

  • Free on-site meals
  • On-site housing, with a weekly housing cost deducted from the paycheck
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