Overnight Camp Counselor

Join our team of amazing counselors and staff in our beautiful Berkshires location!
Camp Description
YMCA Camp Hi-Rock is an overnight camp for campers ages 7-16. Nestled among 1,000 acres in the Berkshire Mountains, surrounded by conservation forest, and centered around our pristine, private, ninety-acre lake, YMCA Camp Hi-Rock enjoys a truly magnificent location.
Job Description

The counselor will aid in supervising and effectively leading a group of campers in daily camp activities. Counselors will provide a safe and nurturing environment for campers and will be actively involved and have a positive attitude about all camp activities.  

Job Segments:

  • Provide opportunities for the cabin group so that each individual experiences success. 
  • Respond to and provide opportunities for discussion of individual or group problems or concerns.
  • Assist each camper with meeting personal goals and those established by the camp for camper development.
  • Follow established procedures for supervising camper health.
  • Follow established procedures for enforcing all safety regulations.
  • Plan Cabin Activities with Senior Counselor and campers as appropriate.
  • Supervise all aspects of the camper’s day including waking up, Cabin/Unit Kapers, meals, Siesta, evening activities, getting ready for bed, overnights, and after hours duty as assigned.
  • Plan and lead a non-denominational devotion, for campers each night.
  • Instruct campers in emergency procedures including fire, severe weather, Lost Camper, and Tag Calls.
  • Teach and assist in teaching Coaching Periods as assigned.
  • Serve as a Lifeguard or Lookout at the waterfront as assigned.
  • Participate in Weekend Program, Unit On Duty, and other events as assigned.
  • Actively participate in staff training, meetings, and supervisory conferences.
  • Demonstrate and teach the values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility to all campers and staff.
  • Follow all camp rules and regulations and enforce them among peers.
  • Maintain positive public relations with parents, visitors, and the general public at all times.
  • Submit all required paperwork on time.
  • Perform other duties as assigned. 
Qualifications
  • Desire and ability to work with and relate to children and one’s peers outdoors 
  • Willingness to accept supervision and guidance
  • Ability to teach and assist in teaching skills and activities
  • Good role model, high integrity, and adaptable 
  • High school senior or equivalent and at least 18 years old
  • At least four weeks experience as a junior counselor, participated in structured group camping, or at least four weeks experience in a supervisory role with children
Essential Functions
  • Ability to communicate and work with assigned ages and skill levels and provide necessary instruction to campers. 
  • Abilities to observe camper behavior, assess its appropriateness, enforce appropriate safety regulations and emergency procedures, and apply appropriate behavior-management techniques.
  • Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to environmental and other hazards related to assigned activities.
  • Physical ability to respond appropriately to emergencies and situations requiring first aid.
  • Physical strength and endurance required to maintain constant supervision of campers.
  • Ability to live in an assigned cabin with a group of campers for the duration of the season.
Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies
  • Critical Thinking & Decision Making: Makes informed decisions based on logic, data, and sound judgment.
  • Communication & Influence: Listens and expresses self effectively and in such a way that engages, inspires, and builds commitment to the Y’s cause.
  • Program/Project Management: Ensures program or project goals are met and intended impact occurs.
  • Emotional Maturity: Demonstrates ability to understand and manage emotions effectively in all situations.
  • Inclusion: Values all people for their unique talents, and takes an active role in promoting practices that support diversity, inclusion, and global work, as well as cultural competence
  • Developing Self & Others: Develops self and supports others (e.g., staff, volunteers, members, program participants), both formally and informally, to achieve their highest potential.
Required Certifications

Must complete online New Employee Orientation, Child Abuse Prevention, Mandated Reporter, Bloodborne Pathogens, Hazard Communication, and Employee Safety trainings prior to start of position.

Must hold and maintain CPR, AED, First Aid, and Oxygen Administration certifications - required for job placement.