Summer Day Camp Junior Counselor

The YMCA focus is to strengthen communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Actively participate in activities/games with children, effectively monitor behavior while using appropriate discipline techniques, and develop age-appropriate skills. Depending on experience and ability, some Junior Day Camp Counselors will be asked to lead and manage their own group of children with the shared supervision of a Day Camp Counselor.

This position is responsible for helping to maintain a safe, clean summer program site; ensuring a high level of program quality and working to establish a positive relationship with all program participants and their families. The Junior Day Camp Counselor will provide a positive role model to youth & teens within the philosophy of YMCA standards and expectations with an emphasis on youth development and healthy living.

Essential Functions:

• Supervise the children, with first priority in their safety, at all times following risk management policies.
• Participate and encourage the participation of all students in daily activities and events.
• Attend staff meetings, mandatory training, and other YMCA events such as in-service, parent nights, and special events as required by the program.
• Responsible for the care of all facilities, equipment and supplies.
• Provide opportunities for youth development as defined by the YMCA of Greater Birmingham and in areas of leadership and core values of honesty, caring, respect, and responsibility.
• Communicate with co-workers, and supervisors about incidents involving children's behavior, actions, or other concerns.
• Follow YMCA policies and procedures.
• Prepare and maintain necessary supplies.
• Arrive to work on time, as scheduled, dressed appropriately & ready to work.
• Other duties and responsibilities assigned by the supervisor.

Minimum Requirements:

• Minimum age of 16-17 years old
• Previous experience working with children preferred.
• Must be willing to work outdoors.
• Successful completion of a background check and Child Abuse & Neglect screening
• Acquire and maintain the following certifications:
• First Aid/CPR /AED (valid 2 years unless otherwise noted)
• Requisite Online Training Modules
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Desire and ability to work with children of all ages.
• Demonstrated responsibility and dependability.
• Follow through actions regarding communication with Counselors and supervisors.
• Must exhibit patience and understanding.
• Must be able to receive, comprehend, and follow detailed instructions.
• Must be capable of working under pressure in a somewhat disruptive environment.
• Ability to work up to 15-20 hours weekly.

Physical Demands:

• Must be alert at all times, keeping safety in mind.
• Must possess acceptable hearing and visual capabilities in order to monitor the environment and children's well-being.
• May be required to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. in various forms.
• May be required to sit, stand, or maintain physical activity for extended periods of time outdoors.
• Physically, actively engage in play and sports.