Summer Camp Counselor II

Overview
Join our vibrant summer camp team as a Summer Camp Counselor II and ignite the spirit of adventure, learning, and growth in children and youth! In this dynamic role, you will serve as a positive role model, fostering a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment where campers can explore new activities, develop essential skills, and create lasting memories. Your energy, enthusiasm, and dedication will inspire young minds to thrive throughout the summer season. This paid position offers a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful impact while honing your leadership and childcare skills.

Duties

• Supervise and engage children in a variety of camp activities including sports, arts and crafts, theater, and outdoor adventures
• Implement age-appropriate behavior management strategies to promote cooperation and respect among campers
• Ensure camper safety by adhering to all health and safety protocols, including administering basic first aid when necessary
• Facilitate inclusive activities that support children with special education needs or additional support requirements
• Communicate effectively with parents, team members, and camp coordinators to provide updates on camper progress and incidents
• Assist with planning and executing daily schedules that align with camp goals and themes
• Support the development of social skills, teamwork, and confidence through positive reinforcement and mentorship

Skills

• Strong classroom management abilities to maintain an organized and respectful environment
• Knowledge of first aid procedures to respond promptly to minor injuries or emergencies
• Experience working with children in educational or childcare settings, including daycare or early childhood education
• Familiarity with special education practices to support diverse learning needs
• Background in teaching, tutoring, or coaching that enhances instructional delivery during activities
• Ability to handle behavior management challenges with patience and professionalism
• Excellent communication skills for engaging with children, parents, and team members effectively

This position is ideal for energetic individuals passionate about working with children in a camp setting. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to safety, inclusivity, and fun while fostering personal growth in young campers. Join us this summer to make a difference — where every day is an opportunity for adventure!

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Summer Camp Counselor II – Ages 18 and Older

Employment Type

Part-Time, Seasonal

Job Category

Summer Camp

Location

Trenton and Rider University

The Capital Area YMCA is looking for enthusiastic, creative, and caring Summer Day Camp Counselor (internally known as Youth Development Leader) to inspire young minds and build memorable experiences at our Summer Day Camp programs. If you have open availability this summer and would like to work between 20-40 hours per week and have weekends off, this is the perfect job for you.

Summer Day Camp Counselors lead various activities that aim to give children a well-rounded experience. Activities include physical play, teamwork, building positive relationships, and much more! You will provide enriching, safe, and memorable experiences to hundreds of campers. You will help campers gain a sense of achievement, build friendships, and find their sense of belonging. You will supervise a group of campers at one of our camps either in Trenton at the Capital Area YMCA or our location at Rider University.

Description

The Lead Counselor serves as a seasonal employee of the Capital Area YMCA summer camp staff team. Camp Counselors play an integral role in the execution of the daily and weekly schedule of activities for children between the ages of 3-15.

Primary Responsibilities:

Our camp programs feature a variety of traditional, sports and teen camps.

· Supervise and engage with groups of children in a fun but professional manner.

· Plan, organize and lead daily camp activities.

· Create a positive experience for all campers.

· Maintain a safe environment.

· Maintain the appropriate staff to camper ratio.

· Safety of all campers at all times.

· Responsible for the maintenance of equipment/supplies, cleanliness of camp site.

· You can work Monday through Friday, shifts between the hours of 7:00 am – 6:00 pm (Shifts vary per location).

· 8 week camp season runs June 29, 2026-August 14, 2026.

· Must be available for a Training on June 13, 2026 from 9am-2pm at 431 Pennington Ave Trenton.

· There will be additional required trainings as well.

· Competitive salary based on Education and experience.

Benefits:

· Flexible work schedule

· Work in one or more positions for a few hours a week or full time

· Membership at the YMCA for all current employees

· Competitive salary

· Full or Part Time Discounts on a variety of childcare and camp programs

· Staff development, trainings, and mentorship opportunities

How to Apply:

If you would like to be a member of our dynamic team, please complete our online application and submit your résumé and a thoughtful cover letter that explains your interest in the role and our organization. Please submit your application through Indeed.

If you are a current YMCA employee, please submit your application through Indeed and let HR know that you have expressed interest in the role.

Background check, CARI and Fingerprinting must be completed within 10 days of offer.

We understand and mutually accept the above position description represents our agreement as to the job to be performed and some tasks may shift. We are an employer at will.

Requirements

· Must be able to work the full 8 weeks of camp.

· Must be at least 18 years of age.

· Must be energetic, fun and enjoy working with kids.

· Must work outdoors at times and also on pool days.

· Must represent the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, responsibility and respect.

· Experience working with children is preferred.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

· Regular walking, reaching, bending, lifting, and standing.

· Must be able to get in the pool.

· Must be able to routinely lift 10 lbs., and occasionally lift up to 40 lbs.

Pay: From $15.92 per hour

Work Location: In person