Summer Day Camp Counselor

Description

The Raritan Bay Area YMCA is currently seeking energetic Summer Day Camp Counselors to lead fun, safe, and engaging activities for our camp participants.

This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a dynamic and growing YMCA located just five miles west of New York City in the waterfront city of Perth Amboy. Since 1912, the Raritan Bay Area YMCA has proudly served the evolving needs of our community. Today, we support more than 6,000 members in the Raritan Bay area through programs and initiatives focused on Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility.

Under the supervision of the Childcare Program Director, Summer Day Camp Counselors provide a safe, fun, and engaging camp experience for all participants. Summer Day Camp Counselors lead age-appropriate activities, support campers’ social and emotional development, and foster a positive and inclusive environment. All program activities follow YMCA standards, comply with New Jersey Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCF) licensing requirements, and align with American Camp Association (ACA) guidelines. This position requires energy, teamwork, and a commitment to the YMCA mission.

Summer Day Camp Counselors also support and promote the organization’s mission by embodying the core values of Honesty, Caring, Responsibility, Respect, and Faith, while demonstrating cause-driven leadership through the YMCA Leadership Competencies: Mission Advancement, Collaboration, Operational Effectiveness, and Personal Growth.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Supervise a group of 10–15 campers, ensuring safety, engagement, and well-being at all times.
• Plan and lead age-appropriate activities in alignment with program goals and YMCA standards.
• Actively supervise campers during aquatic activities; swimming with campers is required.
• Foster a positive, inclusive environment that encourages participation, teamwork, and respect.
• Manage camper behavior, resolve conflicts, and communicate effectively with campers, families, and staff.
• Support daily operations, including setup, cleanup, attendance tracking, and check-in/check-out procedures.
• Follow all YMCA policies, safety procedures, and emergency protocols.
• Attend required trainings and meetings.

Additional Details:

• Seasonal (summer) position - June 29th thru August 21st ; Monday thru Friday; 8:30am to 4:15pm.
• Camp locations vary; may require travel between sites.
• Must attend all pre-camp and mandatory summer camp Trainings.

Benefits:

• Paid Sick Leave
• 403b Retirement Savings Plan (voluntary)
• Complimentary Y Membership (restrictions apply)
• Career Guidance
• Employee Referral Bonus

The Raritan Bay Area YMCA is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Requirements

• Experience working with children in a camp, school, or recreational setting preferred.
• Reliable with consistent attendance and punctuality, is required.
• Ability to lead and participate in a wide range of activities; including swimming, sports, arts, and outdoor play.
• Energetic, enthusiastic, and patient in working with children.
• CPR and First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain.