Summer Day Camp Unit Leader - Indian Boundary YMCA 2025

YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago; Street; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Summer Day Camp Unit Leader to inspire and guide campers through exciting activities in a safe environment. This role emphasizes leadership, creativity, and the ability to foster positive relationships with youth. As a vital part of the camp team, you will oversee recreational activities, enforce safety standards, and promote the YMCA’s values. With a supportive work environment and numerous perks, this position offers a fulfilling opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of children during their summer adventures.

Benefits

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance

Wellness programs

Generous paid time off

Flexible work hours

403(b) plan with company contributions

Opportunities for ongoing learning

Supportive, inclusive work environment

Discounts on programs

Employee assistance

Company-sponsored events

Qualifications

• Passion for working with diverse youth and outdoor activities.
• Excellent verbal communication skills and ability to build relationships.

Responsibilities

• Lead recreational activities, ensuring camper engagement and safety.
• Promote YMCA values and create an outstanding camper experience.

Skills

Leadership

Customer Service

Communication

Creativity

Teamwork

Education

Experience in camping, childcare, education, recreation, or sports

Job description

Lead the Adventure, Inspire the Future: Be a Summer Day Camp Unit Leader!

At the Y, we create an exciting, safe camp environment for kids and staff to have an unforgettable summer. While campers are taking part in unique experiences and adventures, our Summer Day Camp Unit Leaders develop leadership skills and confidence while making lasting friendships and memories.

Pay starts at $18.45 per hour, Monday-Friday schedule

The Summer Day Camp Unit Leader serves as a professional role model by overseeing and monitoring recreational activities, guiding campers and counselors, and leading by example.

Our staff is the Y's greatest asset

Our teams provide valuable skills, knowledge, and passion that are essential to our community's positive impact. We offer numerous perks and benefits, including:

• Competitive salaries reflecting your skills and experience
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, wellness programs, mental health resources, and a family gym membership
• Generous paid time off, paid holidays, and flexible work hours
• 403(b) plan with company contributions after 2 years
• Opportunities for ongoing learning through workshops and training
• A supportive, inclusive work environment valuing diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Discounts on programs, employee assistance, and company-sponsored events

Responsibilities of a Summer Camp Unit Leader

• Promote YMCA, provide excellent customer service, and create an outstanding camper experience
• Lead recreational activities such as arts and crafts, sports, hikes, and more
• Instruct campers with age-appropriate methods, ensuring engagement
• Model socially acceptable behaviors and reinforce positive conduct
• Maintain communication with supervisors and team members
• Support camp activities and specialty programs as assigned
• Ensure camper safety and health by following YMCA standards and evaluating risks
• Enforce rules and regulations for safety
• Monitor campers and staff, providing coaching and intervention when necessary
• Prepare facilities and equipment, and keep camp areas clean

Qualifications

• A passion for working with diverse youth
• Enjoy outdoor activities, creativity, and a willingness to work hard
• Experience in camping, childcare, education, recreation, or sports is a plus
• Must be 19 years or older by the start of camp
• Excellent verbal communication skills
• Ability to build positive relationships and serve as a role model
• Willingness to learn and apply new skills
• Meet physical requirements as outlined

Child Abuse Prevention

• Report hazards and suspicious behavior
• Follow policies for child safety and supervision
• Complete required child abuse prevention training