Job Opportunities API

Description Day Camp Specialist 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 Camp Specialist provides direct supervision of children in a seasonal day camp and designs and delivers programming within a designated specialty area tailored to the skills and interests of each age group. The Camp Specialist works collaboratively with counselors to provide high-quality specialty programming that nurtures creativity, cooperation, skill development, and self-esteem. This role promotes the potential of all youth and encourages peer-to-peer connections as part of the overall camp experience. Essential Functions • Plan, set up, and lead age-appropriate specialty activities that maintain camper engagement. • Instruct and support Counselors in delivering specialty activities, encouraging leadership and activity planning. • Lead specialty activities with assistance from Counselors while maintaining focus and structure. • Manage supply inventory for the specialty area, assist with ordering, and maintain an organized storage area. • Assist the Camp Director with themes, special events, and general camp activities. • Greet campers with enthusiasm and positivity. • Learn campers’ names and respond to their needs. • Encourage campers’ youth development and model positive behavior. • Teach problem-solving skills and maintain basic discipline and group control. • Ensure volunteers have a positive experience to support increased volunteer participation. • Build positive relationships with member families and understand their connection to the YMCA. • Help maintain cleanliness within the camp group. • Perform all duties with enthusiasm, commitment, and initiative. • Act as needed when not leading a specialty program. Safety Responsibilities • Attend and complete all required trainings. • Uphold all camp safety standards and maintain constant camper counts. • Understand and follow risk management and emergency procedures. • Assist with group supervision and lunchtime activities. • Follow all YMCA, ACA, and NJ Licensing standards and procedures to ensure camper safety and program quality. • Complete and submit accident reports, special plans, schedule changes, and evaluations as required. • Report immediate concerns to the Camp Director or supervising staff. • Use appropriate behavior management techniques, including redirection and positive reinforcement. Other Duties • Maintain a professional demeanor as a representative of the YMCA. • Wear the designated camp T-shirt daily. • Demonstrate a positive attitude, responsibility, self-motivation, punctuality, and reliability. • Create a positive and nurturing environment that supports youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. 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 preferred. • Interest in one or more specialty areas such as outdoor living, art, archery, 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 commitment to community service. • Collaboration: Works effectively with individuals of diverse backgrounds, abilities, and perspectives. • Operational Effectiveness: Exercises sound judgment, embraces innovation, and follows policies and procedures. • Personal Growth: Seeks self-development, adapts to change, and applies best practices and current skills. Work Environment & Physical Demands • Ability to plan, lead, and participate in activities in both indoor and outdoor settings. • Physical demands consistent with active supervision and program leadership. • Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.