Pioneer Trails Camp Counselor
Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges Inc·Livingston, New Jersey
About the role
The counselor is responsible for supervising a group of children, keeping them engaged in activities, and fostering positive relationships with both campers and their families. They also assist in planning and executing camp activities while ensuring safety and cleanliness.
Description Exciting Growth Ahead!We're excited to announce that we'll be opening our new West Essex YMCA in December 2026! As we get closer to our opening date, we'll be adding a variety of new positions across multiple departments. If you don't see the right opportunity today, be sure to check back regularly—new roles will be posted throughout the year as we continue to grow. We look forward to welcoming new team members to our expanding organization!
Position Summary
This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Provides direct supervision of a group of children in a seasonal day camp. Creates positive, nurturing relationships with children, while building cooperative relationships with parents/caregivers. Promotes and supports the potential of all youth in programs and facilitates peer-to-peer connections as part of the overall camp experience.
Requirements
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Keeps campers focused and engaged in camp activities. Assist Specialist during activity periods. Consistently greet campers with a smile and treat them with enthusiasm. Develop positive relationships with member families and learn why they come to our Y. Learn camper’s names. Respond to campers' needs. Assist Senior Counselor, Specialists, and all camp staff in carrying out themes, special events, trips, and all camp activities. Encourage camper’s youth development progress. Help group maintain camp cleanliness. Work cooperatively with all camp staff while planning all camp activities. Perform the above responsibilities in an enthusiastic and committed manner. Do more than the minimum for campers. Treat them as special. Treat campers and fellow staff members with respect. Use redirection to appropriate activities when needed and use positive reinforcement to commend good choices. Teach and instill the Four Core Values of the YMCA in all camp activities: Caring, Respect, Honesty, & Responsibility. Act as requested by the supervisor.
Safety
Attend regular staff meetings scheduled by supervisor. Must attend and complete all required trainings. At all times uphold camp safety standards. Maintain constant face counts. Will understand and practice risk management and disaster policies and procedures. Help maintain group control and facilitate lunch time activities. Must follow all Association Aquatics Policy Guidelines. Take on designated assignments for aquatic activities. Help expedite arrival and departure from the pool (i.e. dressing rooms, etc.). Follow all YMCA, ACA, and NJ Licensing standards and procedures to ensure the safest and best quality camp and to help maintain ACA accreditation. Secure and submit all accident reports. Report all immediate concerns to Camp Director or nearest supervisor. Follow supervision of bus counselors and help to ensure safety, expedient procedures and fun activities on the bus. Lead bus songs, stories and games.
