Senior Counselor - Preschool Camp

Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges; Maplewood (NJ, MN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Senior Counselor for a seasonal day camp role. This position is ideal for someone passionate about youth development and community engagement. You will supervise campers, create nurturing relationships, and lead activities that promote social responsibility and healthy living. Join a mission-driven organization where your contributions will make a meaningful impact on children's lives. If you are enthusiastic and committed to fostering a supportive camp environment, this is the perfect opportunity for you to shine.

Benefits

Professional development opportunities

Complimentary use of YMCA facilities

Sign on bonus may apply

Qualifications

• Experience working with children, preferably in a camp setting.
• Must be at least 18 years old with a positive attitude.

Responsibilities

• Supervise campers and Junior Counselors, ensuring safety and engagement.
• Plan and implement camp activities, fostering a positive environment.

Skills

Child Supervision

Communication Skills

Teamwork

Problem Solving

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Job description

10 W Parker Ave, Maplewood, NJ 07040, USA Req #1763

Monday, April 14, 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 a 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.
• 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. Understand and practice risk management and disaster policies and procedures.
• Help maintain group control and facilitate lunchtime activities.
• 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: 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.
• Maintain a 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.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Previous experience working with children, preferably in a day camp setting, with a minimum of two previous camp seasons as a Counselor.
• At least 18 years of age.
• Previous experience with diverse populations preferred.

SALARY: Starting at $16 - $17.50/hour

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Must be capable of being on your feet for long periods and be able to actively supervise children in a variety of indoor and outdoor environments. Must be capable of bending, kneeling, squatting, and lifting 30 pounds. Must be able to visually account for all children in the program, whether inside or outside. Must be able to hear whistles or alarms. A clear speaking voice is needed to command control of the group.

INTERNAL CANDIDATES:

Current active employees of the METROPOLITAN YMCA OF THE ORANGES should apply via the Careers section of the Dayforce Employee Account.

Professional development opportunities and complimentary use of YMCA facilities.

We are proud to be an EEO/AA/employer M/F/D/V. Employment is subject to an extensive background check.