Day Camp Specialty Counselor

YMCA of Greater Hartford Job Description

Job Title: Day Camp Specialty Counselor

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt                               Job Grade:  

Primary Department: Day Camp

Reports to: Camp Director

Revision Date: 01/20/2025                             Leadership Level: Leader

The YMCA of Greater Hartford is an association open to all committed to helping people reach their potential in spirit, mind, and body.  Our commitment is based on the belief that the purpose of this three-fold development is to live out the values of Caring, Honest, Respect and Responsibility.

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Camp Director, Day Camp Specialty Counselors are responsible for leadership, daily lesson plans, observations, encouragement and supervision of campers and staff in their program area while collectively supporting the daily operation of camp. Specialty Counselors also assist camp director in the daily operations of age groups and take responsibility in the Camp Director absence.

Types of Day Camp Specialty Counselors:

• Arts & Craft: Manages, develops and delivers arts and crafts activities and programming that are safe, fun, and appropriate to campers’ ages and abilities ensuring the safety and well-being of campers. 
• STEM: Management of all STEM activities, inventory and management of STEM equipment, creation and management of STEM programs.
• Sports: Management of all sports activities, inventory and management of sports equipment, creation and management of sports programs.
• Drama & Literacy: Management of all literacy and drama activities, inventory and management of literacy and drama supplies, equipment, creation and management of all literacy and drama programs.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Supervises a group of children and possess ever present knowledge of whereabouts and safety of each child in assigned group.
2.  Implements and follows program activities that are culturally relevant, developmentally appropriate, and consistent with YMCA values.
3. Adheres to program standards including safety and cleanliness standards.
4.  Attends staff meetings and trainings.
5. Follows YMCA policies and procedures, including those related to medical and disciplinary situations, child abuse prevention and emergencies.
6. Completes accident/incident reports as necessary.
7.  Maintains positive relations with parents and other staff. Models relationship-building skills in all interactions.
8. Reinforce children’s actions in a positive manner to promote safety and health self-images.
9. Builds effective, authentic relationships with campers and parents; helps them connect with each other and the YMCA.
10. Works in cooperation with other staff as a member of the YMCA team.
11. Maintains a professional attitude and appearance at all times.
12. Any other duties assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum 18 years of age.
•  Experience working with children.
•  Certifications: Current American Heart Association or American Red Cross CPR/AED, and First Aid.
•  Completion of required trainings.
•  Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENT:

• Ability to plan, lead and participate in a range of activities in a variety of outdoor/indoor settings.
•  Able to lift and carry 15-50 lbs.
• Visual and auditory ability to respond to critical situations and physical ability to act swiftly in an emergency