Resident Camp Counselor

POSITION SUMMARY

Under the general supervision of the Summer Camp Director, the Resident Camp Counselor provides leadership, supervision, and positive mentorship to campers in a residential camp setting. The Counselor ensures a safe, inclusive, memorable, valuable, and engaging environment that encourages personal growth, friendship, skills, and fun. This position leads and actively participates in a wide variety of camp activities as well as work in a Specialty Area while modeling the YMCA's mission and core values by fostering youth development, promoting healthy living, and inspiring social responsibility throughout all aspects of the camp experience for campers ages 7-14.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Foster a positive cabin community by modeling respect, inclusion, teamwork, and friendship so that campers feel accepted and supported.
• Ensure camper safety by actively supervising campers in cabins, activities, and common areas, serving as a first responder in emergencies to maintain a secure camp environment.
• Plan, lead, and participate in age-appropriate recreational, educational, and social activities (e.g., games, hikes, crafts, campfires, and specialty areas) to create memorable and engaging camp experiences.
• Collaborate with staff and leadership to coordinate schedules, share feedback, and maintain consistent communication, ensuring a unified and positive camp culture.
• Model personal responsibility by assisting campers with keeping living areas organized and supporting daily camp setup, cleanup, and end-of-session turnover for a clean and efficient operation.
• Communicate effectively with campers and staff by listening attentively, giving clear instructions, and promptly reporting concerns or incidents to supervisors to support camper well-being.
• Guide camper behavior positively by using supportive discipline, problem-solving, and emotional coaching to promote self-confidence and cooperation.
• Encourage participation and inclusion by adapting activities to meet the diverse needs and abilities of all campers, ensuring every child feels valued and successful.
• Uphold YMCA values and policies through consistent demonstration of integrity, enthusiasm, and professionalism, fostering a culture of respect and responsibility.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Must be at least 18 years old (per ACA regulations).
• High school diploma or equivalent required; some college coursework in education, recreation, or youth development preferred.
• Prior experience working with children or youth in a camp, school, or recreation setting preferred.
• Current CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications (can be obtained during staff training). Lifeguard certification (preferred; training available).
• Strong leadership, communication, and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to create a positive, inclusive, and supportive environment for campers of all backgrounds and abilities.
• Capacity to lead diverse activities (sports, crafts, outdoor education, team building).
• Sound judgment and ability to remain calm in emergencies or stressful situations.
• Willingness to live and work in a residential setting and participate in all camp life aspects, including evenings and weekends.
• Flexibility, adaptability, and a collaborative approach in a dynamic camp environment.

COMPETENCIES

• Accountability: Takes ownership of decisions, actions, and results. Follows through on commitments and accepts responsibility. Completes assigned tasks on time and accepts feedback without defensiveness. Adheres to established policies and procedures.
• Youth Development: Understands the physical, emotional, and social needs of children and teens; fosters independence, confidence, and positive relationships.
• Relationship Building: Develops genuine, supportive relationships with campers, peers, and staff while promoting inclusion and respect for all individuals.
• Emotional Intelligence: Demonstrates responsibility, patience, and professionalism; manages challenging situations calmly and effectively.
• Communication: Clearly and respectfully communicates with campers, parents, and staff; listens actively and adapts to different audiences and age groups.
• Inclusion & Cultural Competence: Creates a welcoming environment that celebrates diversity, equity, and belonging among campers and staff.
• Teamwork & Collaboration: Works cooperatively with others to achieve camp goals and support a positive, mission-driven culture.
• Adaptability & Initiative: Adjusts quickly to changing situations, weather, or schedules; takes initiative to solve problems and contribute to camp operations.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Residential outdoor camp environment with cabins, activity areas, wooded trails, open fields, and waterfront spaces.
• Counselors live on-site in shared housing and supervise 10-14 campers day and night during assigned sessions.
• Requires long hours, outdoor activity, and exposure to varied weather conditions (sun, heat, rain, insects).
• Physically active role involving walking, standing, bending, kneeling, swimming, hiking, and lifting up to 50 pounds.
• Requires stamina for sustained periods of high activity and the ability to visually and audibly monitor camper safety.
• Work hours include early mornings, evenings, weekends, and overnight shifts.
• Camp environment is active, energetic, and often loud; staff must be comfortable working in a fast-paced, high-energy setting.

This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position and is not an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, or qualifications. Additional tasks may be assigned as needed to support organizational goals. Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Pay Range: $550 - $575 per hour