Summer Camp Counselor
Department: Child Care
Supervisor: Assistant Camp Director (s)
Employment Type: Seasonal, Hourly (Non-Exempt)
Schedule: 30–40 hours/week (typical shifts 9:00 am–6:00 pm or 10:00 am–6:00 pm)
Dates: Late June – Late August (approx. June 22 – August 21)
Make an Impact This Summer
Spend your summer making a difference.
As a Summer Camp Counselor at the YMCA, you’ll play a key role in creating a safe, fun, and meaningful experience for children entering Kindergarten through 7th grade. This is more than a summer job—it’s an opportunity to build leadership skills, gain hands-on experience, and positively impact the lives of youth in your community.
This role is especially ideal for college students, future teachers, counselors, and youth development professionals.
Pay & Perks
- $15.10 – $19/hour (based on experience & education)
- Free YMCA Membership
- Paid Training & Certifications (CPR/First Aid)
- Staff shirts provided
- Leadership & growth opportunities
- Potential for continued employment during the school year
- Letters of recommendation available for strong performers
What Your Day Will Look Like
No two days are the same—and that’s the best part.
- Start your day supporting child-led play (kickball, tag, group games)
- Participate in morning council, sing & lead a camp song, and help guide campers through their day
- Support campers in choosing and engaging in activities
- Lead or assist with creative, outdoor, and group-based experiences
- Supervise and engage during afternoon swim time
- Participate in weekly field trips and on-site enrichment programs
- Build meaningful connections with campers while maintaining structure and safety
Who We’re Looking For
We’re looking for individuals who are:
- High-energy AND calm, nurturing, and patient
- Interested in working with children and growing their skills
- Creative, flexible, and able to think on their feet
- Open to feedback and committed to continuous improvement
- Strong communicators who can build relationships with children, families, and staff
- Able to balance leading activities and supporting others when needed
Non-Negotiables
To ensure the highest quality program, all staff must:
- Maintain active supervision and ensure child safety at all times
- Limit personal phone use during program hours
- Demonstrate a growth mindset and apply feedback in real-time
- Follow all YMCA policies, licensing regulations, and program expectations
- Maintain professionalism with campers, families, and staff
What You’ll Gain
This role builds real-world skills that transfer directly into careers in:
- Education
- Counseling
- Social work
- Youth development
- Leadership
You will gain experience in:
- Behavior guidance and emotional support
- Group management and leadership
- Communication with families
- Activity planning and facilitation
Key Responsibilities
- Ensure a safe, engaging, and inclusive environment for all campers
- Support daily operations, including activity planning and implementation
- Maintain accurate attendance and sign-in/out records
- Engage with campers during free blocks (lead group games or sports, tabletop activities, etc.)
- Communicate effectively with staff, families, and leadership
- Uphold YMCA values: Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility
- Assist with snacks, setup, cleanup, and organization of program spaces
- Participate in required trainings and staff meetings
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, and stay active throughout the day (including hot or rainy days)
- Lift and/or move up to 30 pounds regularly (up to 50 pounds occasionally)
- Safely assist children and move equipment as needed
Qualifications
- Must be 16 years or older
- Experience working with children is preferred, but not required
- CPR/First Aid certification required (provided if needed)
Why the YMCA?
At the YMCA, we believe in developing the whole person—both the children we serve and the staff we support. You’ll be part of a team that values growth, connection, and making a lasting impact.
Job Type: Temporary
Pay: $15.10 - $19.00 per hour
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Monday to Friday
Application Question(s):
- Which of the two available shifts works best for your schedule?
Experience:
- Childcare: 1 year (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
- Sanford, ME 04073 (Required)
Work Location: In person
