DAYCAMP COUNSELOR

Reports To

Camp Director / Program Director

Position Summary

The Summer Day Camp Counselor is responsible for providing a safe, engaging, and positive camp experience for children. Counselors lead activities, supervise campers, and serve as positive role models while supporting the YMCA’s mission and values.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and ensure the safety and well-being of campers at all times

• Lead and participate in age-appropriate activities such as games, sports, arts and crafts, swimming, and group activities

• Build positive relationships with campers, parents, and fellow staff

• Maintain active supervision and follow all YMCA policies and safety procedures

• Manage camper behavior using positive guidance and redirection techniques

• Assist with daily camp schedules, set-up, and clean-up of activities

• Communicate effectively with Camp Director regarding camper needs, concerns, and incidents

• Serve as a positive role model by demonstrating YMCA values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility

Child Abuse Prevention Verbiage: 

Employeesandvolunteerswhodirectlysuperviseconsumerswill:

1. Adhere to policies related to boundaries withconsumers.
2. Attendrequiredabuseriskmanagementtraining.

3. Employeesandvolunteerswhodonotdirectlysuperviseconsumerswill:

4. Adhere to policies related to boundaries withconsumers.
5. Attendrequiredabuseriskmanagementtraining.
6. Reportsuspiciousandinappropriatebehaviorsandpolicyviolations.
7. Followmandatedabusereportingrequirements.
8. Adhere to job specific abuse risk managementresponsibilities.
   • Maintenance employees and volunteers—ensure unused rooms and closets remain locked; routinely monitor high-risk locations (locker-rooms and bathrooms), etc.
   • Front desk personnel—ensure consumers are properly signed in and signed out,ensures only authorized adults are allowed in the facility, etc.
9.  
10. Adhere to procedures related to managing high-risk activities and supervisingconsumers.
11. Reportsuspiciousorinappropriatebehaviorsandpolicyviolations.
12. Followmandatedabusereportingrequirements.

Qualifications

Qualifications

• Must be at least 16 years of age (age requirements may vary by program). Ages 18 and up preferred due to YMCA policy with a high school diploma or equivalent.

• Experience working with children preferred

• Ability to lead groups and participate in active, outdoor programming

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

• Ability to respond to emergencies calmly and follow safety procedures

Certifications & Training

• CPR, First Aid, and AED certification (or willingness to obtain before camp begins)

• Completion of child abuse prevention training, YMCA camp training and orientation

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, run, and participate in physical activities for extended periods

• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds

• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions

Work Schedule

• Seasonal, summer position

• Monday–Friday, with varying hours based on program needs

YMCA Mission Statement

The YMCA of South Alabama is a nonprofit organization dedicated to putting Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.

The YMCA is an equal opportunity employer.