Lead Camp Counselor

Lead Camp Counselor

Requirements

• High school student or equivalent.
• Previous experience working with children preferably in a day camp setting, with a minimum of two previous camp seasons
• Interest preferred in one or more of the following areas: outdoor living, archery, boating, camping, songs/music, skits, sports, aquatics, recreational games, etc.
• At least 18 years of age.
• CPR, First Aid, AED certifications and Child Abuse Prevention training within 30 days of hire date.
• Previous experience with diverse populations preferred.

Responsibilities

• Keeps campers and counselors focused and engaged in camp activities.
• Assist Specialist during activity periods.
• Assist Campers with Swim.
• Supervise Campers on field trips.
• Consistently greet campers with a smile and treat them with enthusiasm.
• Develop positive relationships with member families and learn why they come to our Y. Effectively communicates daily happenings and incidents to parents/guardians of campers.
• Learn camper’s names. Respond to campers needs.
• Assist Specialists and all camp staff in carrying out themes, special events, trips, and all camp activities.
• Encourage camper’s youth development progress.
• Help group maintain camp cleanliness.
• Work cooperatively with all camp staff while planning all camp activities.
• Perform the above responsibilities in an enthusiastic and committed manner. Do more than the minimum for campers. Treat them as special. Treat campers and fellow staff members with respect.
• Use redirection to appropriate activities when needed and use positive reinforcement to commend good choices.
• Teach and instill the Four Core Values of the YMCA in all camp activities: Caring, Respect, Honesty, & Responsibility.
• Maintains group backpack including group binder, camper information sheets, necessary medications when off site, and first aid kit.
• Handles all behavior, medical, and other incidents within their group, requesting assistance from camp leadership when necessary.
• Act as requested by the supervisor.
• Attend regular staff meetings scheduled by supervisor.
• Must attend and complete all required trainings.
• At all times uphold camp safety standards. Maintain constant face counts. Will understand and practice risk management and disaster policies and procedures.
• Help maintain group control and facilitate lunch time activities.
• Must follow all Association Aquatics Policy Guidelines.
• Take on designated assignments for aquatic activities. Help expedite arrival and departure from the pool (i.e. dressing rooms, etc.).
• Follow all YMCA, ACA, and NJ Licensing standards and procedures to ensure the safest and best quality camp and to help maintain ACA accreditation.
• Secure and submit all accident reports.
• Report all immediate concerns to Camp Director or nearest supervisor.
• Follow supervision of bus counselors and help to ensure safety, expedient procedures and fun activities on the bus. Lead bus songs, stories and games.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience with diverse populations preferred.