Camp Counselor- Open/Closer

JOB TITLE: Camp Counselor – Opener/Closer Shift

REPORTS TO: Program Director and/or as assigned

FLSA TYPE: Non-Exempt, Hourly

JOB PURPOSE:

Under the direct supervision of the Camp Director, or as assigned, the Camp Counselor – Opener/Closer is responsible for working directly with children, members, & other adults/youth. This position plays an integral role in the development of building strong character values in others. All staff must strive to work cooperatively with fellow employees to achieve the goals and objectives of the YMCA. The Opener/Closer shift is designed to work a split shift including partial hours in the morning and afternoon. 

PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (not a complete list):

1. Works split shift of approximately three hours for camp opening and arrivals and then three hours for camp closing and departures each day.
2. Interpret and administer all policies established by the YMCA, to all members, participants, employees, etc. 
3. Supervises a group of children and program activities.
4. Follows all policies, procedures, and standards as established by the law or the Y (e.g., safety or emergency procedures, behavior guidance strategies, child abuse prevention policies); makes ADA accommodations where appropriate; maintains the program site, equipment, and required program records.
5. Nurtures children through purposeful programming; plans activities that are intended to achieve program goals and outcomes, are culturally relevant, are developmentally appropriate, and are consistent with the Y’s values.
6. Creates a positive rapport and shared interest with all youth; models relationship-building skills in all interactions.
7. Provides opportunities for youth to lead, problem-solve, and make decisions and choices within the program and provides daily opportunities for youth to reflect on and respond to their experiences.
8. Provides and welcomes ongoing dialogue with parents and caregivers about their child’s needs and progress; connects families to the Y.
9. Attends and participates in family nights, program activities, staff meetings, and staff training.
10. Respond appropriately to all emergency and non-emergency situations and fill out necessary paperwork.
11. Adhere to all organizational policies and procedures regarding the prevention of abuse.
12. Report any suspected abuse, neglect, or misconduct immediately to the appropriate supervisory staff.
13. Attend mandatory training on abuse prevention, including recognizing signs of abuse, and reporting requirements.
14. Performs other duties as assigned.

Required:

• Must be 18 years old
• Must be an example of good moral behavior
• At least 3 months working and/or volunteering with children ages 5-17
• Desire to work with children daily
• Current CPR/AED/First Aid/O2 Certification (will provide upon hire)

Preferred:

• One or more years of college in a related field (i.e. recreation, child development, psychology, etc.)
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Bilingual - English/Spanish
• Understand the nature of the YMCA as a membership organization