Summer Day Camp Counselor - New Field Elementary / Peterson Elementary

Summer Day Camp Counselor - New Field Elementary / Peterson Elementary Job Category: Day Camp Requisition Number: SUMME005390 Pay: $17.90–$18.45 per hour (Monday–Friday) Locations: New Field Elementary School (1707 W. Morse Ave., Chicago, IL 60626) and Peterson Elementary School (5510 N. Christiana Ave., Chicago, IL 60625). Off‑site programming at Lake View YMCA, 3333 N Marshfield, Chicago, IL 60657, USA. Overview The YMCA is hiring Summer Day Camp Counselors for Summer 2026 for off‑site programming at New Field Elementary School and Peterson Elementary School. We create an exciting, safe camp environment for kids and staff to have an unforgettable summer. While campers enjoy unique experiences and adventures, our Summer Day Camp Counselors develop leadership skills and confidence while making lasting friendships and memories. 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 ensure that campers of all ages and experience levels are engaged. 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 abreast of camp activities and schedule. Support camp activities as assigned by supervisor, including specialty camp activities. Ensure the physical and emotional health and safety of campers by being safety conscious, following all established YMCA standards, and 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 appropriately after use; keep camp facilities clean at all times. Qualifications A commitment to and passion for working with diverse youth. Enjoy being outdoors, being creative, and not afraid to work and play hard. Experience in camping, childcare, education, recreation, sports, or related is a plus but not required. Must 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 high‑quality 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 Reporting any items that may provide a health or safety hazard to staff, members, or guests to your supervisor. Following all policies and procedures related to keeping children safe in our facilities and programs, including those related to the monitoring and supervision of children. Reporting any suspicious behavior and violation of policy and procedures to your supervisor. Completing all child abuse prevention training as required. Preferred Skills Team Player – works well as a member of a group. Leader – inspires teammates to follow. Enthusiastic – shows intense and eager enjoyment and interest. Self‑Starter – inspired to perform without outside help. Flexibility – inspired to perform well when granted the ability to set your own schedule and goals. Ability to Make an Impact – inspired to perform well by contributing to the success of a project or the organization. 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. Equal Opportunity Employer. This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor. #J-18808-Ljbffr