Job Description

2026 Summer Day Camp Counselor (Seasonal)

YOUR IMPACT
This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The role provides direct supervision of a group of children in a seasonal day camp. Camp Counselors create positive, nurturing relationships with children, while building cooperative relationships with parents/caregivers. This position promotes and supports the potential of all youth in programs and facilitates peer-to-peer connections as part of the overall camp experience.

EXPECTATIONS & RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Facilitates and provides direct supervision of children in an outdoor, seasonal day camp in all programming including weekly summer camp, family nights, overnights and before/after camp support.
2. Attends and actively participates in weekly Thursday overnights providing a safe and quality experience to program participants.
3. Provides constant supervision with each activity to ensure the safety of all program participants.
4. Mentors apprentice counselors, while leading by example and providing daily leadership opportunities.
5. Plans and implements program activities that are culturally relevant, developmentally appropriate and consistent with YMCA values.
6. Adheres to program standards including safety and cleanliness standards. Demonstrates camp stewardship by maintaining cleanliness of buildings and grounds.
7. Attends staff meetings and trainings, completing all required online trainings.
8. Follows YMCA policies and procedures and adheres to American Camp Association standards, including those related to medical and disciplinary situations, child abuse prevention and emergencies.
9. Cultivates positive relationships and maintains effective communication with parents and guardians, children and other staff. Models relationship-building skills in all interactions.
10. Ensures a strong focus on character development and diversity, equity and inclusion throughout programming.
11. Reports damaged equipment or safety hazards promptly.
12. Performs any other functions necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Rock River Valley.

SCHEDULE & COMPENSATION: 32 Positions

Positions 1-32: YMCA Camp Winnebago
Full-Time, Seasonal; 40+ hours per week
Required Staff Training: May 18 - 22, 25 - 27
Summer Camp Season Dates: May 28 - August 7
Monday - Friday with required weekly overnights
$580 Weekly Stipend
Extra weekly stipend based on certifications

QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum age of 18 years old
• High school graduate or equivalent; one year or more of college preferred.
• Previous experience working with children, preferably in a day camp setting.
• Current Praesidium Academy trainings required
• CPR, AED, First Aid, and Handle with Care certifications required upon hire
• Training required upon hire: IL Gateways Child Development Health and Safety Basics Course; IL DCFS Child Abuse and Neglect/Mandated Reporter

THERE'S SO MUCH MORE TO WORKING AT THE Y! Employment benefit information available HERE.

The Y is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We offer more than just a job, rather the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of those around you.

The Y: We're for Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility

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