Summer 2026 Overnight Camp Counselor

About the role

YMCA Camp MacLean is now hiring Overnight Camp Counselors for the 2026 Summer Camp Season!

Responsibilities

• Promotes the YMCA and provides outstanding customer service by creating an outstanding camper experience for children, parents and families.
• Leads recreational activities with campers, including but not limited to, arts and crafts, sports, social recreation, songfests, nature hikes, archery, and other games and hobbies.
• Instructs campers using various teaching methods and modifies activities as needed to ensure that campers of all ages and experience levels are engaged.
• Teaches socially acceptable behaviors to campers by serving as a role model and by using age-appropriate positive reinforcement and behavior management strategies.
• Communicates consistently with supervisor, team leader, unit leader and other team members to ensure everyone is kept abreast of camp activities and schedule.
• Supports camp activities as assigned by supervisor, including any specialty camp activities.
• Ensures the physical and emotional health and safety of campers by being safety conscious, following all established YMCA standards and critically evaluating situations for potential risks.
• Makes sure compliance with established rules and regulations to ensure safety.
• Makes sure facilities and equipment are set up and stored appropriately after use.
• Notifies Program Director of any broken or unsafe equipment or if more resources/equipment are needed.

Requirements and Qualifications

• Overnight Camp Counselor - Must be at least 18 years of age by the first day of camp
• Overnight Camp Junior Counselor - Must be at least 16 years of age
• Must have prior experience working with youth; previous experience in a camp setting strongly preferred
• Relevant specialty experience for positions supporting specialty camps
• Commitment to, and passion for, the YMCA of Metro Chicago’s mission
• Excellent verbal communication skills, including the ability to clearly and concisely present ideas and concepts and tailor communication to multiple audiences
• Passion for working with diverse youth and ability to provide a high-quality of instruction using age-appropriate practices
• Ability to observe camper behavior and apply appropriate behavior management techniques
• Proven ability to establish constructive relationships and interact as a positive role model
• Continuous learner who leverages opportunities for learning and applies new knowledge and skills
• Demonstrates evidence of YMCA Y Team competencies in previous experience or practice
• Mets physical qualifications required as outlined in job description

Benefits

• Competitive salaries reflecting your skills and experience.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for eligible employees, plus wellness programs, mental health resources, and a family gym membership.
• Generous PTO and paid holidays, with flexible work hours for work-life balance.
• 403(b) plan with company contributions for eligible employees after 2 years of service.
• Continuous learning opportunities through workshops and training programs.
• Supportive work environment valuing diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Discounts on programs, employee assistance programs, and company-sponsored events.