Specialist - Day Camp

Specialists are responsible for planning and facilitating activities within their specific area (i.e. archery, arts & crafts, drama, nature, new games, low ropes, sports). Activity Specialist positions change each season as we look to provide the best variety and experiences to our campers. Experience and/or certifications relevant to certain activities may be required or may greatly further the application. Activity Specialists are responsible for maintaining the quality of all equipment used, notifying the camp director of additional resources and materials needed as well as providing plans of activities for each week in advance. Applicants must be at least 18 years old.  

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 child’s 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 the Camp Director 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 YMCA’s cause. 

FACILITY MANAGEMENT 

Works with the Camp Director 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 

1. Understanding the Growth and Development of Children and Youth 
2. Guiding and Interacting with Children and Youth 
3. Partnering with Families and Communities 
4. Health, Safety, and Nutrition 
5. Learning Environments and Implementing Curriculum 
6. Observation, Assessment, and Documentation 
7. Program Planning and Development 
8. Professionalism and Leadership 

Opportunities: 

Drama Specialist. Develop appropriate drama-based curriculum and activities for various skills and age levels, and implement a program designed to motivate the children of the camp. 

Arts and Crafts Specialist. Develop appropriate arts and crafts-based curriculum and activities for various skill and age levels, and implement a program designed to motivate the children of the camp. 

Sky Trail Specialist. Applicants must be willing to attend additional training to receive a Sky Trail certification prior to the summer season. The Sky Trail specialist will maintain safety for all groups over the age of 7 that attend the Sky Trail area during an assigned activity block. They will be responsible for all safety checks, and responsible to ensure all equipment is well-maintained and up to RCI standards. 

Court Sports Specialist. Develop appropriate curriculum and activities utilizing outdoor courts for various skill and age levels, and implement a program designed to motivate the children of the camp. 

New Games Specialist. Develop appropriate curriculum and activities utilizing outdoor courts for various skill and age levels, and implement a program designed to motivate the children of the camp. 

Field Sports Specialist. Develop appropriate curriculum and activities utilizing field space for various skill and age levels, and implement a program designed to motivate the children of the camp. 

Archery Specialist. Applicants must be willing to attend additional training to receive an archery certification prior to the summer season. The archery specialist will maintain safety for all groups over the age of 7 that attend the archery activity block. Will lead all archery activities blocks on the schedule. 

Low Ropes Specialist. Develop appropriate curriculum and activities for various skill and age levels, and implement a program designed to motivate the children of the camp. They will be responsible for all safety checks, and responsible to ensure all equipment is well maintained.