Summer Day Camp Lead Counselor
About The Position
NOW HIRING FOR SUMMER 2026! Sitting on close to 40 acres, the Wolverine Day Camp program offers a variety of onsite and offsite amenities. North of Grand Rapids we have a range of offsite field trip opportunities such as AJ’s, Whitecaps, Deer Tracks, Critter Barn, and the local downtown amenities such as John Ball Zoo & Millennium Park. With the proud and robust partnerships of the local community, the Wolverine Day Camp hosts the Plainfield Township Fire Dept., Kona Ice Truck, and Rockford Education Foundation Book Bus. Whether it’s Cook It Up classes, Firepit Friday, or the inch thick layer of sunscreen, come enjoy a summer of camp at the Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA Day Camp! POSITION SUMMARY The Day Camp Lead Counselor will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of their assigned group or groups; and for its staff, participants, and the overall Day Camp program. This position requires face-to-face leadership in this program. This is a seasonal position that runs from the early June through mid August. Day camp programming operates Monday – Friday, staff shifts vary.
Requirements
- Must be 18 years of age or older.
- At least two years of instruction toward Bachelor’s Degree (BA) from a four-year college or university preferred
- One to three years of documented programming with youth or teaching related experience and/or training or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Past supervision experience preferred
- Ability to teach and role model the Core Values of the YMCA and use of 21st century life skills
- Good character and ability to adapt to camp setting; enthusiasm, sense of humor, patience, and self-control
- Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) (required)
- First Aid Certification required within the first 60 days
- AED-Oxygen Certification required within the first 60 days
- Blood Borne Pathogen training
- State of Michigan criminal background clearance (ICHAT
- DHS clearance
Nice To Haves
- At least two years of instruction toward Bachelor’s Degree (BA) from a four-year college or university preferred
- Past supervision experience preferred
Responsibilities
- Implementation of the DC program and activities
- Provides on-site supervision and safety of the assigned group
- Provides positive interactions with youth
- Maintains adequate rosters for program and makes periodic reports
- Confers with parents regarding facility activities, policies, and enrollment procedures
- Confers with staff regarding child's behavioral or learning problems, and recommends methods of modifying inappropriate behavior and encouraging learning experiences
- Arranges medical attention for ill or injured child in accordance with parental instructions
- Performs child care supervision and duties during absence of regular counseling staff
- Enforces safety standards and follows emergency procedures
- Manages daily supervision of 2-6 program staff
- Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the Association’s policies and applicable laws
- Performs any other functions necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids Association
Benefits
- Free YMCA Individual Membership – Enjoy full access to facilities.
- Retirement Savings – 12% employer retirement contribution, no match requirement (upon eligibility) and a 403(b) savings plan.
- Paid Sick Time – Earn paid sick leave so you can focus on feeling your best when it matters most.
- Professional Growth – Access to ongoing training, development programs, and career advancement opportunities.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Free, confidential resources and counseling for you and your family.
