Summer Camp Unit Leader - Mentor, Program Lead & Safety

YMCA of Silicon Valley; Boulder Creek (CA); On-site; USD 38,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

YMCA of Silicon Valley seeks a dedicated Summer Unit Leader to join our Camp Leadership Team in Boulder Creek, CA. You will mentor Camp Counselors, manage daily camp operations, and ensure a safe, engaging experience for campers and families.

Responsibilities include coaching staff, handling camper behavior, coordinating activities, and maintaining high standards in safety and program quality. CPR/First Aid certification is required or obtained on hire.

Qualifications

• Experience as a group counselor or staff member in a camp setting.
• Supervisory experience preferred.
• Flexibility and maturity, with ability to be self-motivated and work with minimum supervision.
• Ability to relate to peers as well as youth effectively.
• CPR and First Aid certified (can be obtained upon hire).
• Preferred YMCA approved driver.

Responsibilities

• Mentor and support a team of Camp Counselors to ensure the delivery of a safe, engaging, and high-quality camp experience.
• Serve as the primary point of contact and support for counselors regarding camper behavior, group management, program implementation, and daily operations.
• Provide leadership, coaching, and ongoing feedback to staff to promote professional growth and successful job performance.
• Participate in staff development and recognition efforts.
• Monitor staff performance and address concerns promptly, professionally, and in accordance with camp policies.
• Lead by example by demonstrating professionalism, enthusiasm, teamwork, and a commitment to camp values.
• Oversee and manage a designated activity or program area, ensuring activities are safe, organized, engaging, and age-appropriate.
• Maintain activity spaces, equipment, and supplies to ensure cleanliness, organization, and safety standards are met.
• Respond to camper, staff, parent, and program concerns, utilizing sound judgment and problem-solving skills to resolve issues effectively.
• Serve as the first level of escalation for behavioral incidents, conflicts, emergencies, and other situations requiring leadership intervention.
• Complete and maintain accurate incident reports, behavioral documentation, accident reports, and other required records in a timely manner.
• Partner with Camp Director to communicate significant incidents, concerns, and program needs.
• Support counselors in creating positive group environments that encourage inclusion, participation, teamwork, and personal growth.
• Monitor camper well-being and assist with behavior management strategies that promote positive outcomes.
• Ensure all camp policies, procedures, licensing requirements, ACA standards, and YMCA standards are consistently followed by staff and campers.
• Assist in planning, coordinating, and implementing special events, camp-wide activities, and leadership initiatives.
• Participate actively in leadership meetings and trainings.
• Maintain positive relationships with campers, families, visitors, and community members through professional and respectful communication.
• Remain alert and able to identify and respond to environmental hazards, behavioral concerns, and safety risks.
• Respond appropriately to emergencies and situations requiring First Aid, CPR, or crisis management procedures.
• Assist with opening and closing duties, daily camp operations, and overall program administration.
• Support the Camp Director and leadership team with additional responsibilities and special projects as assigned.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Job description

YMCA of Silicon Valley seeks a dedicated Summer Unit Leader to join our Camp Leadership Team in Boulder Creek, CA. You will mentor Camp Counselors, manage daily camp operations, and ensure a safe, engaging experience for campers and families.

Responsibilities include coaching staff, handling camper behavior, coordinating activities, and maintaining high standards in safety and program quality. CPR/First Aid certification is required or obtained on hire.