What are the responsibilities and job description for the Head Counselor position at SSYMCA?
The South Shore YMCA Day Camps are a place where campers aged 3-15 come to enjoy a wide range of summer adventures.
Camp is a unique place where we have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of many youth. Along with the fun that camp provides comes great responsibility, long hot days with many different challenges. In addition to practical experience and training, you must have a strong desire to work with youth. Working with us requires you to be a positive role model for youth and a compassionate leader amongst campers and staff at all times.
The Head Counselor provides daily leadership necessary to ensure a safe, clean, and enjoyable camper environment. Head Counselors are responsible for the overall supervision of up to 20 campers along with up to 2 counselors. Head Counselors are responsible for working with their counselor team as well as dealing with camper concerns and daily communication with parents and camp leadership. Head counselors are responsible for planning and facilitating STEAM activities based on the week/sessions theme. Applicants should be strong leaders with prior camping or youth development experience.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old by June 16th.
Reports to: Director and Assistant Director, Day Camp
PROGRAM MANAGEMENT
Assist in planning and execution of programs to meet the needs of the community and fulfill YMCA objectives. Responsible for assisting in the compliance in all related areas including the Department of Early Education & Care (EEC) licensing procedures and regulations, assisting in working towards increased Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) levels as determined by SACC goals and promoting YUSA Healthy Eating Physical Activity (HEPA) standards. Provide reasonable accommodations to allow children with disabilities to participate in activities whenever possible and to meet each childs individual needs according to EEC and ADA.
STAFF ENGAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT
Assist in the supervision of program participants in accordance with the organization's policies, EEC regulations, applicable laws, and QRIS Standards. Monitor and communicate with Camp Directors, all staff related EEC, QRIS, and South Shore YMCA requirements.
MEMBERSHIP ENGAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT
Builds relationships with and among families and members, assists in responding to inquiries, and solves problems.Creates a supportive community environment, assists in recruiting and engaging new families, and connects families to the YMCAs cause.
FACILITY MANAGEMENT
Works with the Camp Directors and other Camp Staff members to ensure that program facilities and equipment for children are safe, clean, adequately equipped, well maintained, and attractive.
VOLUNTEER DEVELOPMENT
Responsible for assisting to engage and work with volunteers.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT & SUPPORT
Assists in YMCA fundraising activities/events, and engages in collaborative relationships with community organizations in order to strengthen support and build community.
CORE COMPETENCIES REQUIRED FOR SUCCESS AT THE YMCA- Leader Level
Mission and Community Oriented Accepts and demonstrates YMCA values. Work effectively with people of all backgrounds and levels. Willingness to serve and fulfill community needs. Recruit volunteers and build supportive relationships with them.
People Oriented Remains calm in challenging situations and seeks to understand the underlying cause. Speaks and writes effectively. Develops rapport, relates well and takes initiative to assist in developing others.
Results Oriented Discovers ideas to create and deliver a high-value member experience. Makes sound judgments, establishes goals, plans work, supports fundraising, and adheres to budgeting procedures.
Personal Development Recognizes personal strengths and limitations, pursues self-development, and demonstrates flexibility.
CORE COMPETENCIES ESSENTIAL FOR CARING FOR AND EDUCATING CHILDREN & YOUTH
Understanding the Growth and Development of Children and Youth
Guiding and Interacting with Children and Youth
Partnering with Families and Communities
Health, Safety, and Nutrition
Learning Environments and Implementing Curriculum
Observation, Assessment, and Documentation
Program Planning and Development
Professionalism and Leadership
Experience with school-age children is preferred
The ability to develop positive, effective working relationships with staff, children & families, volunteers, school administrators, members, community leaders, and other agencies is critical to this position.
Effective management skills, the ability to implement methods to address and follow up with family needs/concerns in a positive and professional way reflecting an attitude that values diversity.
The South Shore YMCA Day Camp operates Monday through Friday between June 16 to August 22, 2025. Successful applicants are expected to be available for the full camp season. Applicants are expected to be available for training June 1st - 15th during after-school hours.
