Description

The Overnight Camp Junior Counselor aids in supervising and effectively leading a group of campers in a resident camp setting. The Overnight Camp Junior Counselor maintains a supportive, positive atmosphere that welcomes and respects all individuals while promoting and maintaining safe conditions in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures. This results in a cause-centered culture that is welcoming, genuine, hopeful, nurturing, and determined. Overnight Junior Camp Counselors may be asked to work in resident camp and/or day camp depending on camp needs.

Essential Functions:

• Demonstrate the values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility in relationships with colleagues, members, volunteers, vendors, and guests
• Build positive, nurturing relationships with children while fostering cooperative relationships with parents/caregivers
• Promote and support the potential of all youth and facilitate peer-to-peer connections as part of the camp experience
• Respond to and provide opportunities for discussion of individual or group concerns
• Assist each camper in achieving personal goals and camp-established development goals
• Follow established procedures for supervising camper health and enforcing all safety regulations
• Supervise all aspects of the camper’s day, including wake-up, Cabin/Unit Kapers, meals, siesta, evening activities, bedtime, overnights, and after-hours duty as assigned
• Plan and lead a nightly Cabin Chat for campers
• Instruct campers in emergency procedures, including fire, severe weather, Lost Camper, and Tag Calls
• Teach and assist during Coaching Periods as assigned
• Serve as a Lifeguard or Lookout at the waterfront as assigned
• Participate in Weekend Programs, Unit On Duty, and other assigned events
• Actively participate in staff training, meetings, and supervisory conferences
• Follow all camp procedures and guidelines, including health and safety, camper supervision, drop-off/pick-up, attendance, forms, reports, and staff expectations in compliance with YMCA, licensing, and state health regulations
• Communicate professionally and in a timely manner with staff, campers, and parents to support a positive experience
• Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

• High school junior or equivalent and at least 17 years old
• Minimum of 4 weeks of experience as a junior counselor, participation in structured group camping, or 4 weeks of supervisory experience with children
• Ability to communicate effectively and work with assigned ages and skill levels, providing necessary instruction to campers
• Ability to live in an assigned cabin with a group of campers for the duration of the season
• Serve as a positive role model with integrity and adaptability
• Willingness to accept supervision and guidance
• Ability to teach and assist in teaching skills and activities
• Effective communication skills to inform, counsel, motivate, and support campers and staff
• Ability to remain calm and objective under pressure or when challenged
• Observant, safety-conscious, and able to react calmly and quickly in emergencies
• Completion of all new employee trainings and department onboarding
• Must possess and maintain valid CPR/AED, First Aid, and O2 Administration certifications

Summary

The Jr. Camp Counselor supports campers by providing guidance, supervision, and mentorship in a safe, welcoming, and engaging camp environment. This role assists with daily activities, teaches skills, and models positive behavior while promoting the values of the YMCA. The Jr. Camp Counselor works closely with senior staff to ensure a fun, educational, and safe experience for all campers.

Apply today to join our team and make a lasting impact on youth development.