Arts Camp Counselor

The Arts Camp Counselor reports to the Arts Camp Director. In this role, the Camp Counselor works with and supports Lead Counselors and instructors in all Arts Camp planning, execution, and overall operations including activities, workshops, events and performances for the safety and support of participants and staff which will include promoting YMCA core values and encouraging lifelong learning. Each Arts Camp counselor is responsible for developing, planning, and executing afternoon specialty activities for the Arts Camp program, as well as working with Arts Camp Lead Counselors and directors to write lesson plans and supply order lists.  

1. PROGRAM MANAGEMENT 

Assist in planning and execution of programs to meet the needs of the community and fulfill YMCA objectives. Responsible for assisting in the compliance in all related areas including the Department of Early Education & Care (EEC) licensing procedures and regulations, assisting in working towards increased Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) levels as determined by SACC goals and promoting YUSA Healthy Eating Physical Activity (HEPA) standards. Provide reasonable accommodations to allow children with disabilities to participate in activities whenever possible and to meet each child’s individual needs according to EEC and ADA.  

2. STAFF ENGAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT 

Assist in the supervision of program participants in accordance with the organization's policies, EEC regulations, applicable laws, and QRIS Standards. Monitor and communicate with the Arts Camp Director regarding all staff-related EEC, QRIS, and South Shore YMCA requirements.  

3.   MEMBERSHIP ENGAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT 

Builds relationships with and among families and members, assists in responding to inquiries, and solves problems. Creates a supportive community environment, assists in recruiting and engaging new families, and connects families to the YMCA’s cause.  

4.   FACILITY MANAGEMENT 

Works with the Arts Camp Director and other Camp Staff members to ensure that program facilities and equipment for children are safe, clean, adequately equipped, well maintained, and attractive. 

5.  VOLUNTEER DEVELOPMENT 

Responsible for assisting to engage and work with volunteers. 

6.   COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT & SUPPORT 

Assists in YMCA fundraising activities/events, and engages in collaborative relationships with community organizations in order to strengthen support and build community. 

CORE COMPETENCIES REQUIRED FOR SUCCESS AT THE YMCA- Leader Level 

Mission and Community Oriented – Accepts and demonstrates YMCA values. Work effectively with people of all backgrounds and levels. Willingness to serve and fulfill community needs. Recruit volunteers and build supportive relationships with them. 

People-oriented – Remains calm in challenging situations and seeks to understand the underlying cause. Speaks and writes effectively. Develops rapport, relates well, and takes initiative to assist in developing others. 

Results-Oriented – Discovers ideas to create and deliver a high-value member experience. Makes sound judgments, establishes goals, plans work, supports fundraising, and adheres to budgeting procedures. 

Personal Development – Recognizes personal strengths and limitations, pursues self-development, and demonstrates flexibility. 

CORE COMPETENCIES ESSENTIAL FOR CARING FOR AND EDUCATING CHILDREN & YOUTH 

1. Understanding the Growth and Development of Children and Youth 
2. Guiding and Interacting with Children and Youth 
3. Partnering with Families and Communities 
4. Health, Safety, and Nutrition 
5. Learning Environments and Implementing Curriculum 
6. Observation, Assessment, and Documentation 
7. Program Planning and Development 
8. Professionalism and Leadership 

Job Preview: 

Arts Camp is the Emilson YMCA’s summer camp experience at Laura’s Center for the Arts, the state-of-the-art facility celebrating the arts in Hanover, Massachusetts. We are seeking individuals with both arts and summer camp experience who are committed to celebrating and working with our next generation of artists. We seek candidates who have a deep commitment, passion, and humanity for working with and teaching youth in the arts. 

• Experience in a full-day camp setting is preferred. 

• Experience with school-age children is preferred. 

• Hands-on experience with theatre, music, dance, visual arts, and/or digital media is required. 

• Knowledge and experience with the Department of Early Education and Care regulations and QRIS Standards are preferred. 

• The ability to develop positive, effective working relationships with staff, children & families, volunteers, school administrators, members, community leaders, and other agencies is critical to this position. 

• Effective teaching skills, the ability to implement methods to address and follow up with family needs/concerns in a positive and professional way reflecting an attitude that values diversity. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to: climb stairs, bend, stoop, kneel, twist, reach with hands, sit, stand for an extended period of time, walk, lift, and/or move up to 25 pounds, have finger dexterity, grasp, perform repetitive motions, talk, hear and have visual acuity. Activities that may be required as part of the job are climbing, running, swimming, dancing, and other outdoor activities. Please note that all Camp Counselors are required to swim with the campers daily. 

The South Shore YMCA Day Camp operates Monday through Friday between June 16 to August 22, 2025. Successful applicants are expected to be available for the full camp season. Applicants are expected to be available for training the week of June 7th during after-school hours. 

*Please note that the Arts Camp program operates for 9 weeks during the summer whereas Day Camps is a 10-week program.