Summer Day Camp Lead Counselor

NOW HIRING FOR SUMMER 2026! At the Mary Free Bed YMCA Day Camp, staff can expect a fun and exciting summer program! The days are packed full of arts & craft, STEAM activities, along with swimming, indoor/outdoor games, and off-site adventures. Staff will work with kids, ages 5 - 12 years old, to help build their physical, mental, and social skills, along with strengthening their self-confidence, all the while creating lifelong memories and friendships in a nurturing and safe environment.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Day Camp Lead Counselor will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of their assigned group or groups; and for its staff, participants, and the overall Day Camp program. This position requires face-to-face leadership in this program. 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

• Implementation of the DC program and activities
• Provides on-site supervision and safety of the assigned group
• Provides positive interactions with youth
• Maintains adequate rosters for program and makes periodic reports
• Confers with parents regarding facility activities, policies, and enrollment procedures
• Confers with staff regarding child's behavioral or learning problems, and recommends methods of modifying inappropriate behavior and encouraging learning experiences
• Arranges medical attention for ill or injured child in accordance with parental instructions
• Performs child care supervision and duties during absence of regular counseling staff
• Enforces safety standards and follows emergency procedures
• Manages daily supervision of 2-6 program staff
• Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the Association’s policies and applicable laws

Performs any other functions necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids Association

COMPENSATION

$17.09 - $21.36 ; 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.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• At least two years of instruction toward Bachelor’s Degree (BA) from a four-year college or university preferred
• One to three years of documented programming with youth or teaching related experience and/or training or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Past supervision experience preferred
• Ability to teach and role model the Core Values of the YMCA and use of 21st century life skills
• Good character and ability to adapt to camp setting; enthusiasm, sense of humor, patience, and self-control

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.