Aquatics Summer Camp Counselor

Overview

This position is seasonal from May 11 - August 7, 2026. If you wish to continue employment with the Y after the summer, you will need to apply with the desired department.

GENERAL FUNCTION:
This position supports the work of the YMCA, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Aquatics Summer Camp Counselor at The Stephens Family YMCA maintains a supportive, positive atmosphere that welcomes and respects all individuals, promotes the potential of all youth, and provides a quality experience to both youth and their families.

• Supervises a group of children and program activities.
• Travels to various locations for field trips.
• Supports swim instruction in certain aquatic camps like Little Seals and Super Swimmers.
• Follows all policies, procedures, and standards as established by the law or the Y (e.g., safety or emergency procedures, behavior guidance strategies, child abuse prevention policies); makes ADA accommodations where appropriate; maintains the program site, equipment, and required program records.
• Nurtures children through purposeful programming; plans activities that are intended to achieve program goals and outcomes, are culturally relevant, are developmentally appropriate, and are consistent with the Y's values.
• Creates a positive rapport and shared interest with all youth; models relationship-building skills in all interactions.
• Provides opportunities for youth to lead, problem-solve, and make decisions and choices within the program and provides daily opportunities for youth to reflect on and respond to their experiences.
• Provides and welcomes ongoing dialogue with parents and caregivers about their child's needs and progress; connects families to the Y.
• Attends and participates in family nights, program activities, staff meetings, and staff training.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Communication and Influence
• Developing Self and Others
• Program/Project Management

• Must be 16 years of age.
• CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications required or attainable within 30 days of hire.
• Child Abuse Prevention training required within 30 days of hire.
• Previous experience working with children in a camp setting preferred.
• Previous experience in one or more of the following areas preferred: outdoor living, boating, camping, songs/music, skits, sports, aquatics, or recreational games.
• Previous experience working with diverse populations.
• Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with people from different backgrounds.

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Ability to plan, lead, and participate in program activities in a variety of indoor and/or outdoor settings, including the swim area.

• Free YMCA membership
• Discount on YMCA programs and merchandise

As a YMCA staff member, you are responsible for ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all members, participants, and colleagues. This includes actively adhering to and promoting the YMCA's abuse risk management policies, which are designed to prevent and address any potential incidents of abuse. You are expected to remain vigilant in recognizing signs of abuse, report any concerns or suspicious behaviors immediately, and participate in required training to stay informed on best practices for safeguarding.

Your commitment to these protocols is essential in fostering a trusted, respectful, and secure environment for everyone involved in YMCA programs and services.