Senior Camp Counselor - Jr Olympics

Fairview Lake YMCA Camps; Maplewood (NJ); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established nonprofit organization is seeking a dedicated Senior Camp Counselor to lead and inspire youth at a vibrant summer camp. In this role, you'll supervise campers, promote their development, and create a nurturing environment where they can thrive. You'll work closely with Junior Counselors and engage with families, ensuring a fun and safe camp experience. This position is perfect for someone passionate about youth development and eager to make a positive impact in the community. Join a mission-driven team and help shape the future of our campers while enjoying a rewarding summer experience.

Benefits

Sign on bonus

Professional development opportunities

Free camp for children of staff

Health and wellness programs

Qualifications

• Experience in child supervision and youth development is essential.
• CPR and First Aid certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Supervise campers and Junior Counselors during camp activities.
• Plan and deliver engaging activities while ensuring safety.
• Foster positive relationships with campers and their families.

Skills

Child Supervision

Communication

Teamwork

Problem-Solving

Youth Development

Education

High School Diploma

CPR and First Aid Certification

Job description

Senior Camp Counselor - Jr Olympics South Mountain YMCA, 13 JEFFERSON AVE, MAPLEWOOD, New Jersey, United States of America Req #1679 Tuesday, January 7, 2025 We are an all-inclusive organization joined together by a shared commitment to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of social responsibility. As a growing, mission focused, and future-oriented association of YMCAs, the Metro YMCA of the Oranges has an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated, mission-driven, candidate to join our team.
Sign on bonus may apply

POSITION SUMMARY:

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Provides direct supervision of a group of children in a seasonal day camp. The Senior Counselor is responsible for a group of children and always supports the ongoing supervision of all campers throughout the camp day. The Senior Counselor helps children adjust to camp according to camp rules and safety precautions, form cohesive groups and enjoy their activities. The Senior Counselor creates positive, nurturing relationships with children, while building cooperative relationships with parents/caregivers. He or she is responsible for the planning and delivery of the variety of activities on regular camp days and supports the efforts of the Director and camp activities. Promotes and supports the potential of all youth in programs and facilitates peer-to-peer connections as part of the overall camp experience.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Supervise and keep Junior Counselors and campers focused on their camp responsibilities.
• Assist all Specialists during activity periods, keeping all staff and campers engaged.
• Learn camper’s names. Respond to campers needs.
• To consistently greet campers with a smile and treat them with enthusiasm.
• Develop positive relationships with member families and learn why they come to our Y.
• Be knowledgeable regarding the Strong Kids Campaign and its purpose.
• Assist in carrying out themes, special events, trips, and all camp activities.
• Encourage camper’s youth development progress.
• Help group maintain camp cleanliness.
• Work cooperatively with all camp staff. Plan, implement, and lead designated camp activities.
• Perform the above responsibilities in an enthusiastic and committed manner. Do more than the minimum for campers. Treat them as special. Treat campers and fellow staff members with respect.
• Teach and instill the Four Core Values of the YMCA in all camp activities: Caring, Respect, Honesty, & Responsibility.
• Act as requested by the supervisor.
• Create a positive and nurturing learning environment to instill youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

Safety:

• Must attend and complete all required trainings.
• At all times uphold camp safety standards. Maintain constant face counts. Will understand and practice risk management and disaster policies and procedures.
• Help maintain group control and facilitate lunch time activities.
• Must follow all Association Aquatics Policy Guidelines. Take on designated assignments for aquatic activities. Help expedite arrival and departure from the pool (i.e. dressing rooms, etc.). Follow all YMCA, ACA, and NJ Licensing standards and procedures to ensure the safest and best quality camp and to help maintain ACA accreditation.
• Secure and submit all accident reports, special plans, schedule changes, and evaluations to Camp Director when appropriate.
• Report all immediate concerns to Camp Director or nearest supervisor.
• Follow supervision of bus counselors and help to ensure safety, expedient procedures and fun activities on the bus. Lead bus songs, stories and games.
• Use two methods of discipline with campers to include: redirection to appropriate activities and using positive reinforcement to commend good choices.

OTHER DUTIES:

• Always maintain a professional demeanor, as you are a representative of the YMCA.
• Wear Camp T-shirt daily.
• Maintain positive attitude, responsibility and self-motivation. Be punctual and reliable.
• Create a positive and nurturing learning environment to instill youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

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.