Summer Camp Counselor – Camp Sargent

About the role

At the YMCA, you'll help campers grow in spirit, mind, and body while discovering who they are and where they belong. You'll guide them through challenges, empower them to thrive, and foster a fun, positive, and emotionally safe environment.

Responsibilities

• Create a transformational camper experience by leading daily activities that help campers achieve new skills and goals, build relationships through teamwork and shared experiences, and develop belonging by feeling included and valued.
• Be the most welcoming presence by greeting every camper and caregiver with warmth and enthusiasm, ensuring every child feels seen, heard, and included, and modeling YMCA values: caring, honesty, respect, responsibility.
• Practice "Listen First" engagement by actively listening to campers, using open-ended questions to understand their needs and interests, supporting behavior with empathy, consistency, and clear expectations, and maintaining constant supervision of assigned group.
• Maintain safety and well-being by responding to basic health needs, following all safety procedures and infection prevention protocols, keeping materials and equipment safe and organized, and participating in staff meetings and trainings.
• Collaborate and communicate by maintaining positive communication with families and staff, reporting concerns and updates to the Assistant Camp Director, and being creative and engaging by planning and leading activities including games, arts, sports, and outdoor exploration.
• Be creative and engaging by bringing energy, creativity, and joy to each day, maintaining a "rainy day kit" for flexible programming, and ensuring consistent attendance to support camper safety and experience.

Qualifications

• Minimum age: 17 years
• Experience working with children in camp, childcare, or recreation
• Ability to lead group activities (games, crafts, sports, etc.)
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• Reliable transportation
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and remain active throughout the day

Benefits

• Seasonal position (June–August)
• Core hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
• May be scheduled for: Pre-Camp (7:00–9:00 AM), Post-Camp (4:00–6:00 PM)
• Participation in special events may be required
• Consistent attendance is essential to support camper safety and experience

Pay

$15.00 per hour

Schedule

Seasonal position (June–August) with core hours of 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM, with flexibility for pre-camp and post-camp hours and participation in special events.