Summer Day Camp Counselor - New Field Elementary / Peterson Elementary

Overview The YMCA is hiring Summer Day Camp Counselors for Summer 2026 for offsite programming at New Field Elementary School and Peterson Elementary School. 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 are developing leadership skills and confidence while 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) Responsibilities Promote the YMCA, provide excellent customer service and create an outstanding camper experience for children, parents and families. Lead recreational activities with campers, including arts and crafts, sports, social recreation, nature hikes, archery, and other games and hobbies. Instruct campers using various teaching methods and modify activities as needed to engage campers of all ages and experience levels. Teach socially acceptable behaviors to campers by serving as a role model and using age-appropriate positive reinforcement and behavior management strategies. Communicate consistently with supervisors, team leaders, unit leaders and other team members to keep everyone informed of camp activities and schedule. Support camp activities as assigned by supervisor, including any specialty camp activities. Ensure 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. Ensure compliance with established rules and regulations to ensure safety. Monitor campers and counselors and provide corrective coaching and intervention as necessary. Set up facilities and/or equipment for activities and store equipment properly after use; keep camp facilities clean at all times. Qualifications A commitment to and a passion for working with diverse youth. Enjoy being outdoors; are creative and not afraid to work and play hard. Your experience in camping, childcare, education, recreation, sports or related fields is a plus but not required. You will be 18 years of age or older by the start of camp. 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. 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. Meets physical qualifications required as outlined in the job description. The YMCA will provide reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Child Abuse Prevention Supports the YMCA’s commitment to child abuse prevention by reporting items that may provide a health or safety hazard to staff, members or guests to your supervisor. Follows all policies and procedures related to keeping children safe in our facilities and programs, including those related to monitoring and supervision of children. Reports any suspicious behavior and violations of policy and procedures to your supervisor. Completes all child abuse prevention training as required. #J-18808-Ljbffr YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago