Specialist

Commonpoint Queens (Samuel Field YM and YWHA); New York (NY); On-site; USD 20,664 - 34,440; Full time

Job summary

Commonpoint Queens (Samuel Field YM and YWHA) is hiring Summer Camp Specialists in New York to lead and facilitate engaging activities for youth aged 5-13. Responsibilities include planning and delivering structured programs in areas like sports and arts while ensuring a fun and safe environment for all campers.

The ideal candidate should be at least 18 years old, have a strong background in a specialty area, and possess effective communication and leadership skills.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Experience or strong background in a specialty area (e.g., sports, arts, fitness).
• Previous experience working with children required.
• Strong communication and leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Plan and lead daily activities for campers ages 5–13.
• Create engaging lesson plans and programming.
• Instruct and supervise campers while promoting teamwork.
• Manage equipment and ensure proper use.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organizational skills

Engagement in recreational activities

Job description

About the Role

To continue advancing the impact we have across the communities we serve, Commonpoint is hiring Specialists situated within the Summer of Arts and Sports Day Camp. The Summer of Arts and Sports Day Camp plays a vital role in creating a positive summer experience for the youth of Forest Hills. The individuals hired as Specialists will lead and facilitate engaging, age-appropriate programming in their area of expertise (e.g., sports, arts, fitness, or other specialty activities). They will be responsible for planning and delivering structured activities, promoting skill development, and fostering a fun, inclusive, and safe environment for all campers.

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 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 – Plan and lead daily activities in area of specialty for campers ages 5–13. Create engaging, structured, and age‑appropriate lesson plans and programming. Instruct and supervise campers while promoting participation, teamwork, and skill development. Maintain a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for campers of all abilities. Model positive behavior, enthusiasm, and good sportsmanship or creative expression. Assess camper skill levels and adapt activities to ensure balanced participation and engagement. Manage equipment and ensure proper use, care, and organization of materials. Collaborate with counselors and other staff to ensure smooth transitions and group management. Communicate any camper concerns (behavioral, physical, or social) to camp leadership. Attend and participate in all camp activities, including orientations, meetings, trips, and staff events. Maintain strong attendance and punctuality; arrive on time and remain until dismissed by leadership. Maintain a professional attitude at all times.

Qualifications & Key Attributes

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Experience or strong background in a specialty area (e.g., sports, arts, fitness, or related field).
• Previous experience working with children required.
• Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
• Previous experience in a camp or youth program setting (preferred).
• Ability to lead multiple types of activities.
• Previous experience in a Commonpoint role is a plus (preferred).
• Bilingual preferred.

• 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.

Working Conditions & Job Details

Environment: Primarily indoors in a camp facility, with regular outdoor activities including playground time and scheduled swimming sessions.

Exposures: Exposure to typical indoor and outdoor conditions, including moderate noise levels from children and staff, and seasonal weather during outdoor activities (heat, sun, or light rain).

Essential Physical Requirements: Ability to actively engage with children, including standing, walking, bending, stooping, and participating in recreational activities. Must be able to supervise children in and around water and participate in swimming activities. Light physical effort required; ability to lift and carry up to 20 pounds.

Work Schedule: Regular daytime hours, typically 8:30AM to 4:30PM. No late nights required. Occasional weekend work may be required depending on camp programming. Occasional local travel for off‑site field trips; no overnight travel required.

JOB DETAILS – Working schedule: Mon‑Fri, 8:30AM to 4:30PM
Non‑Union Position
In Person

Commonpoint is an equal opportunity employer