CAMP COUNSELOR

YMCA OF COLUMBIA - JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title:  Summer Camp Counselor 

FLSA Status: Hourly, Non-Exempt                    

Reports to: Youth Development Director                

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Youth Development Director, Summer Camp Counselors provide day-to-day direction and supervision of Day Camp campers. Staff manage groups of children ages 3-15 and lead group games, art/stem time, physical activity, swimming, and play. Staff uphold the standard of ensuring that all programs operate in a quality manner consistent with the Y mission, causes, and values. Staff will participate in weekly field trips and act as positive role models for youth. Summer camp roles include Traditional Day Camp, Teen Camp, Preschool Camp, and Counselor in Training leaders. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Supervises children; keep sight and sound supervision and accurate head counts of groups at all times.
2. Plans and implements program activities that are culturally relevant, developmentally appropriate and consistent with YMCA values.
3. Adheres to program standards including safety and cleanliness standards.
4. Assists children in daily needs including but not limited to washing hands, using the restroom, picking up belongings, assisting with meals and packing or unpacking of belongings.
5. Attends staff meetings and trainings.
6. Follows YMCA policies and procedures, including those related to medical and disciplinary situations, drop-off/pick procedures, supervision, incident reports, child abuse prevention and emergencies, completing appropriate paperwork when needed.
7. Maintains positive relations with parents and other staff. Models relationship-building skills (including Listen First) in all interactions.
8. Perform other duties as assigned.

YMCA COMPETENCIES (Leader):

Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Y’s values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fund-raising.

Collaboration: Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view, and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others.

Operational Effectiveness: Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience. Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work and actively participates in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures, and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members.

Personal Growth: Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change, and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths and limitations and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Minimum age of 16.
2. Ability to complete CPR, First Aid, AED, Oxygen within 60 days.
3. Ability to complete Bloodborne Pathogens, Sexual Harassment and Child Abuse Prevention training before start of 1st shift.
4. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with participants of all ages and backgrounds.
5. Ability to plan, lead, organize and implement program activities in a variety of settings, including indoor, outdoor, and swimming. Getting into swimming pool required.
6. Must be able to improvise when unexpected circumstances occur.
7. Must be able to remain active, energetic and positive throughout the program day.
8. Must be able to attend New Counselor Orientation on May 17 and mandatory summer camp training May 27-30, 2025.
9. Must be able to work summer camp season June 2-August 1, 2025.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Two to Three years child care or related experience and relevant experience in supervision and administration of youth programs, preferably in a day camp setting.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Must be able to frequently stand, sit, walk, hear, run, jump, kick, catch, throw, climb, kneel, bend, reach, balance, crouch or crawl, climb and/or balance, reach with hands and arms, handle or feel, stoop, lift/move and carry approximately 35 lbs., and use hands and fingers. Must be able to lift and/or maneuver large gym or office equipment. Special vision abilities required; distance, peripheral, depth perception and analytical, auditory, and verbal capabilities in order to communicate adequately. Must be able to get into swimming pool.