Senior Camp Counselor
About The Position
This position supports the work of the YMCA, a leading nonprofit organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The Senior Counselor provides direct supervision of children in a seasonal day camp and is responsible for a designated group of campers while supporting the supervision of all campers throughout the camp day. The Senior Counselor helps children adjust to camp expectations, rules, and safety procedures; supports the development of cohesive groups; and ensures campers enjoy a positive camp experience. This role is responsible for planning and delivering daily activities, supporting camp leadership, and promoting the potential of all youth through peer-to-peer connections and inclusive programming.
Requirements
- High school student or equivalent.
- Minimum of two previous camp seasons as a Counselor; prior experience working with children in a day camp setting required.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
Nice To Haves
- Interest in one or more activity areas such as outdoor living, archery, boating, camping, music, skits, sports, aquatics, or recreational games preferred.
- Previous experience working with diverse populations preferred.
Responsibilities
- Supervise Junior Counselors and campers to ensure focus and engagement in camp responsibilities.
- Assist Specialists during activity periods, keeping staff and campers actively involved.
- Learn campers’ names and respond to individual needs.
- Greet campers with enthusiasm and positivity each day.
- Build positive relationships with member families and understand their connection to the YMCA.
- Maintain knowledge of the Strong Kids Campaign and its purpose.
- Assist with and lead themes, special events, trips, and daily camp activities.
- Encourage campers’ youth development and personal growth.
- Help maintain cleanliness within the camp group.
- Work cooperatively with all camp staff to plan, implement, and lead activities.
- Perform responsibilities with enthusiasm and commitment, treating campers and staff with respect.
- Teach and model the YMCA’s Four Core Values: Caring, Respect, Honesty, and Responsibility.
- Perform additional duties as assigned by the supervisor.
- Create a positive, nurturing learning environment that promotes youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
- Attend and complete all required trainings.
- Uphold camp safety standards at all times, including maintaining constant camper counts.
- Understand and follow risk management and emergency procedures.
- Assist with group control and lunchtime activities.
- Follow all Association Aquatics Policy Guidelines and complete assigned aquatic duties.
- Assist with safe and efficient transitions to and from the pool.
- Follow all YMCA, ACA, and NJ Licensing standards to ensure camper safety, program quality, and ACA accreditation.
- Complete and submit accident reports, special plans, schedule changes, and evaluations as required.
- Report immediate concerns to the Camp Director or supervising staff.
- Assist with bus supervision, ensuring safety, efficiency, and engagement through songs, stories, and games.
- Use appropriate behavior management techniques, including redirection and positive reinforcement.
- Maintain a professional demeanor at all times as a representative of the YMCA.
- Wear the designated camp T-shirt daily.
- Demonstrate a positive attitude, responsibility, self-motivation, punctuality, and reliability.
- Support a positive and nurturing camp environment.
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What This Job Offers
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
Number of Employees
1,001-5,000 employees
