Summer Day Camp Counselor 2025

YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking enthusiastic Summer Day Camp Counselors for an unforgettable summer experience. In this dynamic role, you will lead fun and engaging activities for children while serving as a positive role model. You'll have the opportunity to develop leadership skills, create lasting friendships, and make a meaningful impact on campers' lives. With a focus on safety and inclusivity, this position offers a supportive work environment and numerous benefits, including health insurance and paid time off. If you're passionate about working with youth and enjoy outdoor adventures, this is the perfect opportunity for you!

Benefits

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance

Wellness programs

Generous paid time off

Flexible work hours

403(b) plan with company contributions

Opportunities for continuous learning

Diverse and inclusive work environment

Discounts and assistance programs

Qualifications

• Passion for working with diverse youth and outdoor activities.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to build relationships.

Responsibilities

• Lead activities like arts and crafts, sports, and games.
• Ensure camper safety and positive experiences.
• Communicate regularly with team members.

Skills

Team Player

Leadership

Communication Skills

Creativity

Childcare Experience

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Job description

Lead the Fun, Shape the Future: Be a Summer Camp Counselor!

Join us for the experience of a lifetime - the YMCA is hiring Summer Day Camp Counselors for 2025!

At the Y, we create an exciting, safe camp environment for kids and staff to have an unforgettable summer. While campers participate in unique experiences and adventures, our Summer Day Camp Counselors develop leadership skills and confidence, making lasting friendships and memories.

Pay starts at $17.90 per hour, Monday-Friday schedule

Locations:

• New Field Elementary School (1707 W Morse Ave., Chicago, IL 60626)
• Peterson Elementary School (5510 N Christiana Ave., Chicago, IL 60625)

The Summer Day Camp Counselor serves as a professional role model, leading recreational activities that teach life skills, encourage healthy and safe behaviors, and create a positive camper experience. The counselor ensures adequate supervision of youth, preventing any unsupervised situations.

Benefits:

• Salaries reflecting skills, experience, and value
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, wellness programs, mental health resources, family gym membership
• Generous paid time off, holidays, flexible work hours
• 403(b) plan with company contributions after 2 years
• Opportunities for continuous learning through workshops and training
• Diverse, inclusive, supportive work environment
• Discounts, assistance programs, and events

Responsibilities:

• Promote YMCA, provide excellent service, and ensure a positive camper experience
• Lead activities such as arts and crafts, sports, nature hikes, archery, and games
• Instruct and modify activities to engage all campers
• Model appropriate behaviors and use positive reinforcement
• Communicate regularly with team members and supervisors
• Support camp activities and special programs
• Maintain safety and health standards, evaluate risks
• Ensure compliance with rules and monitor campers and staff
• Prepare facilities and equipment, keep camp clean

Qualifications:

• Passion for working with diverse youth
• Enjoy outdoor activities, creative, willing to work and play hard
• Experience in camping, childcare, education, recreation, sports is a plus
• Must be 18 or older by camp start
• Excellent communication skills
• Ability to build positive relationships and serve as a role model
• Willingness to learn and apply new skills
• Meet physical requirements
• Reasonable accommodations available for disabilities

Child Abuse Prevention:

• Report hazards and suspicious behavior
• Follow policies for child safety and supervision
• Complete required training

Behaviors:

Team Player, Leader, Enthusiastic

Motivations:

Self-Starter, Flexibility, Impact-driven

Equal Opportunity Employer. For more information, review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.