Under the direction of the Sr. Program Director, or his/her designate, and consistent with the Christian mission of the YMCA and in cooperation with other YMCA staff, the  Themed Camp Counselor Specialist is responsible for organizing and implementing the major segments of their assigned program area.  The program area should provide each camper with the opportunity to develop physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually, socially and cognitively.

PRINCIPLE RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Attend YMCA Summer Day Camp Training.
• Participate in all required training for their assigned program area.
• Build and maintain an enthusiasm with fellow staff and all children.
• Manage appropriate behavior with all children and  discipline as directed during training.
• Proper use and care of assigned areas equipment.
• Maintain all equipment used in one’s program segment in good order.
• Ensure area is properly equipped to support the day to day program.
• Report all program changes and equipment needs to the Program Director.
• Support the camp wide programs and assist in program areas as needed.
• Greet all camp visitors in a friendly, professional manner and maintain visitor records.
• Ensure the cleanliness of program area throughout the day.
• Share with the Program Director any difficult or unusual situations.
• Encourage and implement the camp reward systems.
• Encourage and support your staff and peers.
• Complete Metro Staff Orientation, BBP and any other training provided by the YMCA.
• Maintain a positive relationship with parents, co-workers, supervisors.
• Willingness to take the initiative in daily activities and programs.
• Provide guidance and awareness of camp program to other departments.
• Support the YMCA mission and adhere to all the policies set forth by the YMCA and the Day Camp program.
• All other duties as assigned or needed.

 YMCA COMPETENCIES :

• Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Y’s values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fund-raising.
• Collaboration: Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and
• perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view, and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others.
• Operational Effectiveness: Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to
• another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience.
• Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work and actively participates in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures, and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members.
• Personal Growth: Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an
• openness to change, and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths and limitations and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be at least 16 years of age (minimum 18 years of age for licensed programs). Prefer one  year of college education.
• Experience, training, or certifications required for camp program assigned.
• Interest in children and significant evidence of emotional maturity, good moral character, judgement, integrity and leadership capability.
• Enjoyment and appreciation of the outdoors.
• Ability to create and work within a Christian environment so that each camper has the opportunity for spiritual growth with an understanding of the YMCA mission, goals and objectives.
• Administrative experience that relates to the planning, implementation and evaluation of the program development.
• Administrative experience that relates to hiring, training, supervising, coaching and evaluation of staff.
• Ability to adapt to changing needs and circumstances.
• Safety certifications and all trainings and certifications in accordance with the Quality Standards within required timeframe.
• Desire to learn and apply experiences as necessary.
• Strong interpersonal skills to be able to communicate in a positive manner with member, participants and staff.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks, keep accurate records and have goal decision making skills.
• Ability to jump in where needed with initiative and internal drive.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to work  irregular work hours.
• Ability to walk, stand, and sit (including on the floor) for long periods of time.
• Exposure to communicable diseases and bodily fluids.
• Must be able to lift and/or assist children up to 50 pounds in weight.
• Must be able to lift and carry food and supplies weighing up to 20 pounds.
• Ability to stand or sit while maintaining alertness for several hours at a time.
• Position may require bending, leaning, kneeling, and walking.
• Ability to speak concisely and effectively communicate.
• Visual and auditory ability to respond to critical situations and physical ability to act swiftly in an emergency