Junior Camp Counselor

Commonpoint Queens (Samuel Field YM and YWHA); United States; On-site; USD 22,320 - 28,458; Part time

Job summary

Commonpoint Queens (Samuel Field YM and YWHA) is hiring a Senior Camp Counselor to support youth programming and create engaging summer experiences. You will assist in supervising campers and implementing structured activities.

The ideal candidate will be at least 16 years old with strong communication skills and a positive attitude. Compensation is seasonal with a salary ranging from $2,000 to $2,550.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 16 years old.
• Interest in working with children in a camp or youth program setting.
• Willingness to actively participate in all camp activities, including outdoor play and swim.

Responsibilities

• Assist in supervising and engaging a group of campers throughout the day.
• Support the implementation of age-appropriate, structured, and inclusive activities.
• Help maintain accurate headcounts and assist with attendance during all transitions.

Skills

Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Ability to follow directions and work as part of a team

Responsible, dependable, and punctual

Ability to maintain energy, patience, and a positive attitude

Job description

About Commonpoint

Commonpoint is a community‑centric nonprofit serving diverse audiences across Queens and the greater New York area. We provide a wide range of social services, education, and recreation programs to more than 80,000 individuals each year.

About the Role

Commonpoint is hiring a Senior Camp Counselor within the Camp Department to support youth programming and create safe, engaging summer experiences.

Role Responsibilities

• Agency Expectations
  • Support agency initiatives by carrying out assigned duties accurately and efficiently, while following established processes and contributing to basic data collection, reporting, or documentation as required.
  • Use agency resources responsibly by following established procedures, safeguarding equipment and materials, and/or supporting cost‑effective operations.
  • Work effectively with supervisors, coworkers, and cross‑department teams to ensure clear communication, timely task completion, and a positive, respectful work environment.
  • Follow all safety protocols, policies, and procedures to maintain a safe work environment for staff, partners, and the public, and promptly report concerns or incidents.
• Role Expectations
  • Assist in supervising and engaging a group of campers throughout the day.
  • Support the implementation of age‑appropriate, structured, and inclusive activities.
  • Model positive behavior and maintain a respectful and enthusiastic attitude with campers and staff.
  • Follow the lead of Senior Counselors and Unit Heads to ensure smooth daily operations.
  • Help maintain accurate headcounts and assist with attendance during all transitions.
  • Support maintaining proper staff‑to‑camper ratios at all times.
  • Assist in preparing campers for all scheduled activities, including daily swim.
  • Help with daily camp routines including transitions, snack/lunch, swim, and trips.
  • Ensure camper safety by following all camp policies and procedures.
  • Communicate any concerns, incidents, or camper needs to supervisors promptly.
  • Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.
  • Contribute to a positive and collaborative team environment.
  • Must be prepared to swim daily.

Qualifications & Key Attributes

• Minimum Qualifications
  • Must be at least 16 years old.
  • Interest in working with children in a camp or youth program setting.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to follow directions and work as part of a team.
  • Responsible, dependable, and punctual.
  • Willingness to actively participate in all camp activities, including outdoor play and swim.
  • Ability to maintain energy, patience, and a positive attitude throughout the camp day.
  • Must complete all required onboarding and compliance trainings.
• Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous experience working with children (babysitting, volunteering, camps, or school programs).
  • Interest in education, psychology, recreation, or a related field.
  • CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
  • Experience participating in group activities such as sports, arts & crafts, or team‑building programs.
  • Ability to take initiative and demonstrate a willingness to learn and grow in the role.
• Key Attributes
  • Consistently shows up prepared, follows through on assigned responsibilities, and meets expectations within established timelines.
  • Responds effectively to changing priorities, learns new tasks quickly, and applies feedback to improve performance.
  • Adheres to safety protocols, policies, and ethical standards, and represents the agency professionally in all interactions.

Compensation & Benefits

Seasonal Salary/Rate: $2,000 - $2,550 | Starting Salary: $2,000

Compensation is competitive within the nonprofit sector in the New York metropolitan area and is determined by internal and external equity, role scope, and qualifications.