Job Opportunities API

Description Day Camp Senior Counselor Position Summary 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. Essential Functions • 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. Safety Responsibilities • 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. Other Duties • 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. Requirements Qualifications • 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. • Interest in one or more activity areas such as outdoor living, archery, boating, camping, music, skits, sports, aquatics, or recreational games preferred. • Must be at least 18 years of age. • Previous experience working with diverse populations preferred. YMCA Competencies (Leader Level) • Mission Advancement: Demonstrates YMCA values and a commitment to serving community needs. • Collaboration: Works effectively with diverse individuals, builds rapport, communicates clearly, and remains calm in challenging situations. • Operational Effectiveness: Makes sound decisions, embraces new ideas, plans effectively, and follows policies and procedures. • Personal Growth: Pursues self-development, adapts to change, understands personal strengths and limitations, and applies best practices and current skills. Work Environment & Physical Demands • Ability to plan, lead, and participate in activities in both indoor and outdoor environments. • Physical demands are representative of those required to perform essential job functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.