Summer Day Camp Lead Counselor

YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids • Park Township, MI

21d • $17 - $21 • Onsite

About The Position

NOW HIRING FOR SUMMER 2026! West Ottawa YMCA Summer Day Camp is located at Lakeshore Elementary. With an awesome playground and a lot of trees for shade, our programs spends lots of time outdoors - thanks to the Lake Michigan breeze for keeping us cool. Our program is smaller in size, which helps us get to know each child well. Program days are packed with a variety of activities, including wheel days, water days, and weekly field trips around Holland and surrounding cities 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 early June through mid-August. Day camp programming operates Monday – Friday. Staff shift times 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.
• 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
• Fingerprinting

Nice To Haves

• 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

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.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level