Summer Day Camp Counselor (Grand Rapids)

NOW HIRING FOR SUMMER 2026! YMCA Summer Day Camps offer an experience that is sure to keep every child having fun all summer long. From fostering creativity, to building a sense of accomplishment and belonging, we help kids flourish by surrounding each child with support, guidance, and fantastic opportunities to discover, learn and try until they succeed.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Day Camp Counselor is responsible for leading and implementing engaging and fun activities for youth grades Kindergarten to 7th, in a small group setting. They will also be responsible for the general safety and development, growth, and skill achievement of the participants in his/her group. The Day Camp Counselor will provide high quality indoor/outdoor educational and recreational experiences for youth that focus on the YMCA core values of caring, honesty, respect, responsibility, and inclusion. This is a seasonal position that runs from early June through mid August. Day camp programming operates Monday – Friday, 7:00am-6:00pm. Staff shifts vary.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Organize and lead a variety of small and large group activities each week. Activities may include crafts, nature, songs, games, opening and closing ceremonies, swimming, archery, canoeing. This includes time spent on the bus.
• Accompany campers along with
• Identify and respond to camper behavior issues.
• Ensure that identified camp spaces are kept clean, organized, and free of litter.
• Communicate with parents about participant’s experiences and report concerns to camp leadership.
• Assist in maintaining accurate program records including incident reports, logbook documentation, and daily attendance.
• Know and understand ALL emergency procedures associated with the camp program.
• Know, enforce, and follow all safety guidelines associated with the camp and all program areas. This includes but is not limited to being responsible for your campers’ safety and their whereabouts at all times.

Performs any other functions necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids Association

COMPENSATION

$15.21 - $19.01 ; Seasonal, Non Exempt (up to 40 hours/week)

BENEFITS

• Free YMCA Individual Membership – Enjoy full access to facilities.
• Retirement Savings – 12% employer retirement contribution, no match requirement (upon eligibility) and a 403(b) savings plan.
• Paid Sick Time – Earn paid sick leave so you can focus on feeling your best when it matters most.
• Professional Growth – Access to ongoing training, development programs, and career advancement opportunities.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Free, confidential resources and counseling for you and your family.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Education classes or experiences in camp, youth programs, recreation, working with children, or in a related field.
• Ability to lead, organize, and implement program activities.
• Ability to work as a member of a team and the ability to accomplish tasks with the little direct supervision.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Must have the physical ability to lead and participate in camp activities which include, but are not limited to swimming, team building initiatives, physical games, and activities.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATION

• Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) (required)
• First Aid Certification required within the first 60 days
• AED-Oxygen Certification required within the first 60 days
• Blood Borne Pathogen training
• State of Michigan criminal background clearance (ICHAT)
• Fingerprinting
• DHS Clearance

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

TRAVEL

0-5% of local travel within the state of Michigan; occasional out-of-state travel may be required for educational conferences or training

PM21

Compensation details: 15.21-19.01 Hourly Wage

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