Camp Counselor- East Orange YMCA

Become a part of the East Orange YMCA team, where we oversee two lively camps!

One camp is located on-site at 100 North Arlington Ave and 159 N. Munn Ave, East Orange, NJ, serving Pre-K through 8th Grade. Meanwhile, our offsite camp at Lincoln Avenue School, 216 Lincoln Ave, Orange, NJ 07050, invites students from First Grade through entering 8th Grade.

Join us in creating an exhilarating summer experience for children across diverse age groups!

SALARY: $15.13-$16 p/h

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Camp Counselor is responsible for a group of children and support the ongoing supervision of all campers throughout the camp day. The Counselor helps children adjust to camp according to camp rules and safety precautions, form cohesive groups and enjoy their activities. The Counselor is a source of friendship, guidance and discipline to the campers. The incumbent will be responsible for the planning and delivery of the variety of activities on regular camp days and supports the efforts of the Camp Director and activities.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• At all times, maintain a professional demeanor, as a representative of the YMCA. Wear Camp T-shirt every day. Encourage through positivity.
• Supervise campers and Junior Camp Counselors focused on their camp responsibilities.
• Assist all Specialists during activity periods, keeping all staff and campers engaged.
• Learn Camper’s names. Respond to camper needs.
• Consistently greet campers with a smile and treat them with respect and with enthusiasm.
• Develop positive relationships with families and learn why they come to our Y.
• Be knowledgeable regarding the Annual Campaign and its purpose.
• Assist 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. Plan, implement, and lead designated camp activities.
• Perform the above responsibilities in an enthusiastic and committed manner. Do more than the minimum for campers. Treat each camp as if they are special.
• Uphold, model, teach and put the four (4) core values of the YMCA into action in all camp activities everyday: Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility
• Create a positive and nurturing learning environment to instill and encourage youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

Safety & Supervision:

• 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 lunchtime 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 incident reports, special plans, schedule changes, and evaluations to Camp Director.
• Report all immediate concerns to Camp Director or nearest supervisor.
• Follow supervision of bus counselors and help ensure safety, expedient procedures and fun activities on the bus. Lead bus songs, stories and games.
• Use redirection to appropriate activities and positive reinforcement to commend good choices when applicable.  

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School Diploma, college credits/degree in Education preferred.
• Basic understanding of youth development principles.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate with all levels including staff, parents and staff.
• Ability to be creative, innovative, flexible with high energy. Ability to problem solve and take initiative that adhere to the purpose, mission and goals of the YMCA.
• Ability to relate to children and develop professional, positive relationships with youth.
• 1-3 years’ experience leading and supervising group activities.
• Ability to work as part of a team, as a role model and take initiative to identify potential risk factors and take measures to reduce them.
• First Aid, CPR and AED certification may be required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Must be capable of being on your feet for long periods and be able to actively supervise children in a variety of indoor and outdoor environments. Must be capable of bending, kneeling, squatting and lifting 30 pounds. Must be able to visually account for all children in the program, whether inside or outside. Must be able to hear whistle or alarms. Clear speaking voice is needed to command control of group.

INTERNAL CANDIDATES: Current active employees of the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges should apply via the Careers section of the Dayforce Employee Account.