What are the responsibilities and job description for the Summer Day Camp Counselor position at YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids?
Description
NOW HIRING FOR SUMMER 2026! Sitting on close to 40 acres, the Wolverine Day Camp program offers a variety of onsite and offsite amenities. North of Grand Rapids we have a range of offsite field trip opportunities such as AJ’s, Whitecaps, Deer Tracks, Critter Barn, and the local downtown amenities such as John Ball Zoo & Millennium Park. With the proud and robust partnerships of the local community, the Wolverine Day Camp hosts the Plainfield Township Fire Dept., Kona Ice Truck, and Rockford Education Foundation Book Bus. Whether it’s Cook It Up classes, Firepit Friday, or the inch thick layer of sunscreen, come enjoy a summer of camp at the Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA Day Camp!
POSITION SUMMARY
The Day Camp Counselor is responsible for leading and implementing engaging and fun activities for youth grades Kindergarten to 7th, in a small group setting. They will also be responsible for the general safety and development, growth, and skill achievement of the participants in his/her group. The Day Camp Counselor will provide high quality indoor/outdoor educational and recreational experiences for youth that focus on the YMCA core values of caring, honesty, respect, responsibility, and inclusion. This is a seasonal position that runs from early June through mid August. Day camp programming operates Monday – Friday, 7:00am-6:00pm. Staff shifts vary.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Organize and lead a variety of small and large group activities each week. Activities may include crafts, nature, songs, games, opening and closing ceremonies, swimming, archery, canoeing. This includes time spent on the bus.
- Accompany campers along with
- Identify and respond to camper behavior issues.
- Ensure that identified camp spaces are kept clean, organized, and free of litter.
- Communicate with parents about participant’s experiences and report concerns to camp leadership.
- Assist in maintaining accurate program records including incident reports, logbook documentation, and daily attendance.
- Know and understand ALL emergency procedures associated with the camp program.
- Know, enforce, and follow all safety guidelines associated with the camp and all program areas. This includes but is not limited to being responsible for your campers’ safety and their whereabouts at all times.
Performs any other functions necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids Association
COMPENSATION
$15.21 - $19.01 ; Seasonal, Non Exempt (up to 40 hours/week)
BENEFITS
- Free YMCA Individual Membership – Enjoy full access to facilities.
- Retirement Savings – 12% employer retirement contribution, no match requirement (upon eligibility) and a 403(b) savings plan.
- Paid Sick Time – Earn paid sick leave so you can focus on feeling your best when it matters most.
- Professional Growth – Access to ongoing training, development programs, and career advancement opportunities.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Free, confidential resources and counseling for you and your family.
Requirements
QUALIFICATIONS
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Education classes or experiences in camp, youth programs, recreation, working with children, or in a related field.
- Ability to lead, organize, and implement program activities.
- Ability to work as a member of a team and the ability to accomplish tasks with the little direct supervision.
- Strong organizational and communication skills.
- Must have the physical ability to lead and participate in camp activities which include, but are not limited to swimming, team building initiatives, physical games, and activities.
CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATION
- Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) (required)
- First Aid Certification required within the first 60 days
- AED-Oxygen Certification required within the first 60 days
- Blood Borne Pathogen training
- State of Michigan criminal background clearance (ICHAT)
- DHS Clearance
WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
TRAVEL
0-5% of local travel within the state of Michigan; occasional out-of-state travel may be required for educational conferences or training
Salary : $15 - $19