Day Camp Counselor - EPC (2027)

YMCA; Estes Park (CO); On-site; USD 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

YMCA of the Rockies is hiring a Day Camp Counselor to plan, lead, and implement core and specialty programs for K-7 participants in a small-group outdoor setting. You will ensure safety, foster growth, and provide high-quality recreational experiences aligned with our Core Values.

The role requires strong teamwork, effective communication with families, and the ability to adapt activities for varied skill levels while maintaining daily attendance and safety procedures on site.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Experience working with children preferred (400+ hours).
• Ability to lift up to 60 pounds and hike on uneven terrain.
• English speaking and writing proficiency required.

Responsibilities

• Lead, plan, and implement camp activities for K-7.
• Maintain safety protocols and camper supervision.
• Communicate with parents and Camp leadership about participant experiences.
• Keep attendance records and incident reports.

Skills

Camp leadership

Team collaboration

Safety awareness

Communication skills

English fluency

Education

Education classes or experience in camp/youth programs

Tools

First Aid Certification

CPR Certification

Wilderness First Aid (WFA)

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:Under the direction of the Day Camp Director and supporting supervisor, the Day Camp Counselor is responsible for planning, leading, and implementing core and non-core programs and experiences for K-7 grade children in a small group setting, providing high quality outdoor educational and recreational experiences that focus on the YMCA of the Rockies’ Core Values, and ensuring the general safety and development, growth and skill achievement of participants.OUR MISSION AND CULTURE:We firmly believe in our mission of putting Christian principles into practice through programs, staff and facilities in an environment that builds healthy spirit, mind and body for all. We are committed to being welcoming to all people and to making a difference in the lives of our members, guests and staff. We count on our staff to provide extraordinary mission-based experiences for our guests and for each otherESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:Ability to lead, plan, organize, and implement program activitiesAbility to work as a member of a team and the ability to accomplish tasks with little direct supervisionAbility to model wholesome behaviorOrganize and lead a variety of small and large group activities each week. Activities may include crafts, nature, songs, games, swimming, archery, hiking, scavenger hunts, etc.Help write and implement a weekly schedule for assigned camp group and organize and implement one specialty week of campIdentify and respond to camper behavior issuesAssist in maintaining accurate program records including incident reports, logbook documentation, and daily attendanceKnow, understand and follow all emergency procedures associated with the day camp programKnow, enforce, and follow all safety guidelines associated with the camp and all program areas. This includes but is not limited to being responsible for campers’ safety and whereabouts at all timesCommunicate with parents about participant’s experiences and report concerns to Camp leadershipEnsure that day camp sites are kept clean, organized, and free of litterREQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS:Must be at least 18 years of age.Education classes or experience in camp, youth programs, recreation, working with children, or in a related field requiredExperience working with children required 400 + hours preferredMust have the physical ability to lead and participate in camp activities which include, but are not limited to, hiking, swimming, team building activities, campfires, skits, and physical gamesMust enjoy working with young childrenMust have the ability to restrain and physically support children weighing 50-200 pounds when needed for safety in general camp activitiesUpon hire, must complete YMCA-provided First Aid and CPR certification, and for some positions, Wilderness First Aid certificationMust be fluent in speaking and writing English.Must possess strong organizational and communication skillsMust be able to walk up to 3 miles on uneven terrain.Must be able to lift up to 60 pounds.GENERAL YMCA OF THE ROCKIES REQUIREMNTS:Uphold and reflect the YMCA core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, Responsibility and Faith in all functionsUphold the YMCA of the Rockies Mission, policies, and programs.Possess and demonstrate excellent customer service skills; for example, friendly, personable, helpful, patient, and professional.Support the YMCA of the Rockies safety program. Promote safe work practices and a safe environment for guests, members, and staff.Promote a cooperative, positive, and flexible atmosphere while working with others in a diverse community.Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and antiracism is required.Must meet acceptable criminal background check standards.All other duties as assigned.WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.Able to work outdoors in all weather, hiking large distances over varied terrain.Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and carry up one (1) flight of steps.Short bursts of stooping, kneeling, bending, standing for long periods of time, etc.Prolonged periods at a computer and on the phone.Note: Employees are held accountable for all duties of this job.This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities,or qualifications associated with the job.