What are the responsibilities and job description for the Trips Counselor position at Greater Green Bay YMCA?
POSITION SUMMARY
Under the general supervision of the Summer Camp Director, the Trips Counselor supports the planning, leadership, and delivery of safe, fun, and developmentally appropriate out-of-camp and wilderness experiences. This position ensures that every trip promotes camper growth, teamwork, and appreciation for the outdoors, while upholding YMCA values and safety standards.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Plan and lead out-of-camp and wilderness trips to ensure programs are safe, enjoyable, and aligned with YMCA goals for youth development and outdoor education.
- Supervise and guide campers in all aspects of trip life—including travel, camp setup, meal preparation, and group activities—to build independence, responsibility, and a positive, inclusive group culture.
- Model and teach outdoor living and wilderness skills, such as navigation, cooking, fire building, and Leave No Trace principles, to help campers gain confidence and respect for nature.
- Lead and assist in adventure-based activities such as climbing, rafting, hiking, canoeing, and camping to promote physical fitness, teamwork, and personal challenge.
- Foster camper growth and group cohesion by facilitating activities and discussions that encourage leadership, cooperation, and respect for others and the environment.
- Maintain the health and safety of all participants by adhering to YMCA, state, and ACA standards, implementing risk management practices, and responding calmly and effectively in emergencies.
- Maintain and organize trip gear and equipment to ensure all supplies are safe, functional, and ready for use on future trips.
- Communicate effectively with leadership and staff to provide trip updates, address camper needs, and coordinate logistics and safety support.
- Participate fully in on-site camp life, including pre-trip preparation, post-trip debriefing, camper supervision, and community activities, to support overall camp operations.
- Contribute to evening programs and special events, such as campfires and all-camp gatherings, to strengthen the camp community and create lasting camper memories.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Must be at least 20 years old (per ACA regulations); 21 years old preferred.
- High school diploma or equivalent required; some college coursework in education, recreation, or youth development preferred.
- Prior experience working with children or youth in a camp, school, or recreation setting preferred.
- Current CPR, Wilderness First Aid, and AED certifications (can be obtained during staff training). Lifeguard Deep Water certification required (training available).
- Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record required.
- Strong leadership and decision-making skills with the ability to motivate and guide campers and peers.
- Excellent organization and problem-solving abilities to manage logistics in dynamic outdoor environments.
- Effective verbal and written communication; able to resolve conflicts and provide constructive feedback.
- Commitment to inclusion, equity, and positive youth development principles.
- Proficiency with basic computer applications for scheduling and documentation.
- Enthusiastic, team-oriented, and adaptable to changing schedules, weather, and camper needs.
- Sound judgment and emotional maturity to handle emergencies and challenging situations calmly.
- Willingness to live and work in a residential setting and participate in all camp life aspects, including evenings and weekends.
- Flexibility, adaptability, and a collaborative approach in a dynamic camp environment.
COMPETENCIES
- Accountability: Takes ownership of decisions, actions, and results. Follows through on commitments and accepts responsibility. Completes assigned tasks on time and accepts feedback without defensiveness. Adheres to established policies and procedures.
- Youth Development: Understands the physical, emotional, and social needs of children and teens; fosters independence, confidence, and positive relationships.
- Relationship Building: Develops genuine, supportive relationships with campers, peers, and staff while promoting inclusion and respect for all individuals.
- Emotional Intelligence: Demonstrates responsibility, patience, and professionalism; manages challenging situations calmly and effectively.
- Communication: Clearly and respectfully communicates with campers, parents, and staff; listens actively and adapts to different audiences and age groups.
- Inclusion & Cultural Competence: Creates a welcoming environment that celebrates diversity, equity, and belonging among campers and staff.
- Teamwork & Collaboration: Works cooperatively with others to achieve camp goals and support a positive, mission-driven culture.
- Adaptability & Initiative: Adjusts quickly to changing situations, weather, or schedules; takes initiative to solve problems and contribute to camp operations.
WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS
- Residential outdoor camp environment with cabins, activity areas, wooded trails, open fields, and waterfront spaces.
- Counselors live on-site in shared housing and in trail tents.
- Requires long hours, outdoor activity, and exposure to varied weather conditions (sun, heat, rain, insects).
- Physically active role involving walking, standing, bending, kneeling, swimming, hiking, and lifting up to 50 pounds.
- Requires stamina for sustained periods of high activity and the ability to visually and audibly monitor camper safety.
- Work hours include early mornings, evenings, weekends, and overnight shifts.
- Camp environment is active, energetic, and often loud; staff must be comfortable working in a fast-paced, high-energy setting.
This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position and is not an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, or qualifications. Additional tasks may be assigned as needed to support organizational goals. Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.