YMCA Of South Hampton Roads
Location
Portsmouth, Virginia
Salary
$13 - $14 / HOUR
The Counselor will support the Youth Development Director by ensuring the safety and well-being of children through active supervision and enforcing safety protocols. This role also involves assisting Program Leaders in implementing developmentally appropriate activities and fostering positive engagement with the children.
Candidates must be at least 16 years old, possess good character, and be able to work under qualified supervision, with CPR/First Aid certifications required within 30 days of hire. Essential requirements include adequate communication skills, punctuality, and the ability to pass pre-employment background checks.
Description Imagine going to work knowing that what you do each day positively influences the lives of children in your community. Working at the YMCA you’ll discover more than a job – you will have the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the community.
As a Counselor, you will play a vital role in supporting the Youth Development Director in providing a nurturing and stimulating learning environment for young children. Your enthusiasm, dedication, and passion for early childhood education will contribute to the success of our preschool program.
Requirements: LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES: Functional Expertise Program and Project Management Developing Self and Others
The Counselor will meet the qualifications set forth by the YMCA of South Hampton Roads and the Virginia Department of Education, Division of Child Care Health and Safety. Minimum qualifications include: Shall be at least 16 years of age Shall work under the supervision of an individual qualified to be a Program Lead. Staff shall be in good character and reputation CPR/First Aid certifications required within 30 days of hire Completes all pre-employment requirements including background checks Adequate speaking, hearing and writing skills appropriate for interacting with children required Ability to be on time, every time for scheduled shifts required Ability to work at various program locations preferred Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with people from different backgrounds WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Will be required to walk, stand, kneel, stoop, push, and lift up to 50 pounds While performing duties the employee may occasionally work in the outside weather conditions, and is exposed to wet, cold and /or humid conditions Continuous operations requiring attention to detail and multi-tasking Will be exposed to cleaning supplies Must be able to stand or sit for long periods of time Must be physically able to successfully complete required certifications During peak program seasons, may be expected to work night and weekend hours to meet program needs Accountable for completion of assigned goals as measured by the number of people served and service satisfaction scores. BACKGROUND CHECKS: An offer of employment is contingent upon receipt of satisfactory results to meet minimum requirements of the position. They may include criminal background and reference checks, E-Verify, drug test, driver’s license record, and/or a Child Protective Services Check (CPS). Additional driver’s license check, CPS, criminal background check, alcohol, and/or drug testing may be required to be processed in the future in order to meet and/or maintain the requirements of this position.
Market context
In Virginia, summer camp counselor openings often reflect seasonal demand for dependable staff who can supervise children safely and work under a qualified Program Lead. These roles are competitive because employers look for candidates who are at least 16, have strong character, and can complete CPR/First Aid certification plus background checks soon after hire. Before applying, confirm you can meet the age, certification, and screening requirements; this platform’s AI-summarized job requirements and benefits help you review the original posting faster.
Salary benchmark
$53,665 avg / yr
Typical range: $31,200–$83,200 based on 230 active listings in Virginia