Overnight Summer Camp Unit Leader - Camp Marston

YMCA of San Diego County•Julian, CA

3d•$103 - $109•Onsite

About The Position

The Overnight Camp Unit Leader supervises a designated overnight camp unit and provides leadership, continuity, and direction to support a high-quality camp program. The role oversees assigned staff, delivers staff training, manages unit schedules and logistics, and develops, evaluates, and maintains engaging classes and activities. Unit assignments may include age-based camper villages, trips, teen leadership, aquatics, health-center support, photography, or camp-wide activities. The Unit Leader must live on-site for the full camp session and remain available and responsive to camper and unit needs, emergencies, and unforeseen situations. The position helps foster a positive, inclusive camp culture and contributes to the broader operation of camp. The role is scheduled six days per week. Mandatory staff training is May 23, 2027, and the summer camp season runs June 6 through August 7, 2027. Weekly pay is listed as $621.06–$661.76, with a daily equivalent of approximately $103.49–$109.17. Free on-site meals are included; on-site housing is provided, with a weekly housing cost deducted from pay. The position is exempt from overtime under the organized-camp counselor exemption described in the posting.

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 two years of experience working with children ages 7–17 in a day camp, resident camp, overnight camp, or similar setting.
Ability to lead and motivate a diverse staff team and foster a collaborative, positive, high-performing work environment.
Ability to exercise sound, rapid, and ethical judgment in critical incidents, camper behavior challenges, and staff performance matters.
Demonstrated scheduling, resource-allocation, and logistical-management abilities.
Excellent verbal communication and an approachable demeanor when interacting with children, parents or guardians, staff, senior administration, and community members.
Visual and auditory ability and physical capacity to identify, assess, and respond effectively to emergencies.
Ability to teach and lead activities in at least four of these domains: recreational games, drama, arts and crafts, outdoor education, performing arts, sports, aquatics, team building, or STEM/science.
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, including standing, walking, hiking, and/or climbing for extended periods, often outdoors in varying weather conditions.
Ability to plan and prepare materials and spaces for daily activities so sessions start on time and run smoothly.
Ability to live on-site for the full program season and maintain professional standards in shared areas with staff and campers.
Fingerprinting is required before reporting to work, with subsequent arrest notifications.
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

Supervise, mentor, and evaluate assigned unit staff, including counselors and specialized activity leaders.
Facilitate staff training on youth development, risk management, program delivery, and camp behavioral policies.
Manage unit logistics, including staff schedules, attendance, transitions, and camper cabin placements.
Plan and implement an age-appropriate unit program that supports the Overnight Camp’s mission and educational objectives.
Evaluate classes, activities, and routines, and make data-informed adjustments to improve program quality and retention.
Ensure daily programming follows YMCA camp policies, safety procedures, and American Camp Association requirements; lead orientations and organize schedules and cabin lists.
Foster an intentional, inclusive, and nurturing environment that encourages creativity, individuality, and belonging.
Maintain unit supplies and equipment, and ensure program areas are stocked, clean, and safe.
Lead all-camp activities, participate in leadership meetings, and communicate between camp leadership and the unit team.
Support camp operations and stewardship, including facility cleanliness, equipment care, general chores, cabin and bathroom cleaning as assigned, evening programs, special events, and other projects requested by the Program Director.
Perform other duties as assigned.