What are the responsibilities and job description for the Manchester Day Camp - Teen Trip Counselors position at graniteymca?
The YMCA of Downtown Manchester is now hiring Summer Camp Counselors for our Teen Trip Camp, a unique travel-based day camp serving youth ages 12–16. This is more than just a summer job—it's an opportunity to build your leadership skills, make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people, and spend your summer traveling, building relationships, and having fun in a supportive, mission-driven environment.
Counselors will accompany and lead teens on daily excursions across New England, help facilitate outdoor recreation and team-building activities, and serve as positive role models who create safe, inclusive, and engaging experiences for campers. If you thrive in active environments and are passionate about youth development, we encourage you to apply.
Key Responsibilities:
- Build positive, supportive relationships with campers, encouraging growth, self-confidence, and resilience.
- Lead and participate in off-site trips and recreational activities throughout the region.
- Collaborate with co-counselors, unit leaders, and camp directors to create a cohesive and supportive team atmosphere.
- Support behavior management strategies that foster cooperation, respect, and inclusivity among teens.
- Ensure the physical and emotional safety of all participants throughout the day.
- Demonstrate and teach the core YMCA values: Caring, Honesty, Respect, Responsibility, and Courage.
- Actively engage in training and ongoing development opportunities provided by the YMCA.
Qualifications:
- Must be at least 19 years old by the start of camp season.
- Must hold, or be willing to obtain, CPR and First Aid certification prior to start date.
- Experience working or volunteering with youth in a camp, school, or recreational setting preferred.
- Previous experience as a camp counselor (minimum 2 seasons) strongly preferred.
- Lifeguard certification is a plus; training may be provided for strong candidates.
- Must be available to attend pre-camp staff training and be present for the majority of camp weeks.
- Strong communication, leadership, and teamwork skills required.
- Must be dependable, flexible, and able to adapt to the dynamic needs of a travel-based program.
Schedule & Compensation:
- Daily hours may vary based on trip schedules
- Competitive pay commensurate with experience
- Additional training and professional development opportunities provided
- Year-round employment opportunities may be available within the YMCA organization after camp
Position Specifics:
- Camp season runs 06/22/2026 through 08/21/2026 and must be able to work most of the camp weeks
Year-round employment opportunities are available with the YMCA. We encourage you to join our dynamic summer team, and support youth in creating a great summer camp experience!