Summer Camp Junior Counselor (West Side YMCA)

YMCA of Greater New York; New York (NY); On-site; USD 19,320 - 27,517; Full time

Job summary

The YMCA of Greater New York is hiring a Summer Camp Junior Counselor for the West Side YMCA in New York. This full-time seasonal position pays $17.00 hourly. The counselor will ensure a safe and positive environment for children, plan activities, and maintain documentation. Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent, be at least 16 years old, and have experience working with kids.

The role runs from June through August and emphasizes creating an inclusive atmosphere while connecting with the community.

Qualifications

• At least one year of experience working with children 13 years or younger.
• Must be at least 16 years old.
• General knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.

Responsibilities

• Ensure health, safety, and well-being of program participants.
• Plan and implement activities and lessons for diverse children.
• Maintain accurate program documentation.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Leadership qualities

Comfortable working with diverse youth and adults

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

PowerPoint

Access

Adobe PageMaker

Photoshop

Job description

Full-Time / Seasonal – $17.00 hourly – West Side YMCA, New York

The YMCA of Greater New York is here for all New Yorkers – to empower youth, improve health, and strengthen community. Founded in 1852, today the Y serves a diverse population of more than half a million New Yorkers who learn, grow, and thrive through programs and services at our 24 branches. Community is the cornerstone of the Y. Together, we connect active, engaged New Yorkers to build stronger communities.

For the summer of 2023, the West Side YMCA is seeking a Summer Camp Junior Counselor. Under the supervision of the Summer Camp Director, the Junior Counselor will play a critical role in the successful operations of the Summer Camp program, ensuring a safe, positive environment for school‑age children and opportunities for learning, interaction, and academic or personal growth. Summer Camp programs operate Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., June through August.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure the health, safety, and well‑being of participants in the program by providing appropriate supervision at all times. Understand, maintain, and ensure that participants follow Risk Management and safety procedures.
• Plan and implement meaningful activities, lesson plans, and special events that are structured, age‑appropriate, fun, exciting, challenging, and values‑based in the areas of arts, STEM, character development, literacy, creative expression, community service, physical fitness, and/or nutrition.
• Perform specific scheduled assignments, including, but not limited to, arrival and/or departure, and lunch duty.
• Support the planning and implementation of all camp activities, including, but not limited to, summer learning initiatives, field trips, in‑camp events, and culminating performances.
• Work cooperatively with all program staff.
• Promote an inclusive, welcoming, and respectful environment that embraces the diversity of all staff and participants.
• Create and maintain a strength‑based, youth‑focused atmosphere that is consistent and sensitive to the needs of participants with learning, emotional, or behavioral differences.
• Maintain accurate program documentation (attendance, sign‑in/out forms, behavior reports, incident reports, and accident reports, as appropriate).
• Understand and communicate the YMCA’s core values and the goals of the Summer Camp program to staff, participants, and caregivers.
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with parents and guardians through regular communication about their child’s strengths and areas of growth.
• Attend all required pre‑camp trainings. Actively participate in training sessions, designated meetings, and special events.
• Adhere to all Department of Health, YMCA of Greater New York, and funder standards, expectations, and regulations.

Desired Skills & Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent required, or at least one (1) year of experience working with children 13 years of age or younger.
• Must be at least 16 years old.
• General knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Knowledge of Access, Adobe PageMaker, and Photoshop preferred.
• Strong interpersonal skills, leadership qualities, and comfortable working with diverse youth and adults.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER DRUGFREE WORKPLACE

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