Resident Camp Counselor

Greater Green Bay YMCA • Suring, WI

7d • Onsite

About The Position

Under the general supervision of the Summer Camp Director, the Resident Camp Counselor provides leadership, supervision, and positive mentorship to campers in a residential camp setting. The Counselor ensures a safe, inclusive, memorable, valuable, and engaging environment that encourages personal growth, friendship, skills, and fun. This position leads and actively participates in a wide variety of camp activities as well as work in a Specialty Area while modeling the YMCA’s mission and core values by fostering youth development, promoting healthy living, and inspiring social responsibility throughout all aspects of the camp experience for campers ages 7-14.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years old (per ACA regulations).
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Current CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications (can be obtained during staff training).
• Strong leadership, communication, and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to create a positive, inclusive, and supportive environment for campers of all backgrounds and abilities.
• Capacity to lead diverse activities (sports, crafts, outdoor education, team building).
• Sound judgment and ability to remain calm in emergencies or stressful situations.
• Willingness to live and work in a residential setting and participate in all camp life aspects, including evenings and weekends.
• Flexibility, adaptability, and a collaborative approach in a dynamic camp environment.

Nice To Haves

• Some college coursework in education, recreation, or youth development preferred.
• Prior experience working with children or youth in a camp, school, or recreation setting preferred.
• Lifeguard certification (preferred; training available).

Responsibilities

• Foster a positive cabin community by modeling respect, inclusion, teamwork, and friendship so that campers feel accepted and supported.
• Ensure camper safety by actively supervising campers in cabins, activities, and common areas, serving as a first responder in emergencies to maintain a secure camp environment.
• Plan, lead, and participate in age-appropriate recreational, educational, and social activities (e.g., games, hikes, crafts, campfires, and specialty areas) to create memorable and engaging camp experiences.
• Collaborate with staff and leadership to coordinate schedules, share feedback, and maintain consistent communication, ensuring a unified and positive camp culture.
• Model personal responsibility by assisting campers with keeping living areas organized and supporting daily camp setup, cleanup, and end-of-session turnover for a clean and efficient operation.
• Communicate effectively with campers and staff by listening attentively, giving clear instructions, and promptly reporting concerns or incidents to supervisors to support camper well-being.
• Guide camper behavior positively by using supportive discipline, problem-solving, and emotional coaching to promote self-confidence and cooperation.
• Encourage participation and inclusion by adapting activities to meet the diverse needs and abilities of all campers, ensuring every child feels valued and successful.
• Uphold YMCA values and policies through consistent demonstration of integrity, enthusiasm, and professionalism, fostering a culture of respect and responsibility.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED