Overnight Camp - Unit Leader

YMCA Buffalo Niagara operates two premier summer overnight camps in Western New York.
 

YMCA Camp Kenan (CampKenan.com) overlooks beautiful Lake Ontario on 50 acres near Barker, NY.

YMCA Camp Weona (CampWeona.com) is nestled among 800 acres of hills and forests in Gainesville, NY.  

When applying for this job, you will be asked to select the overnight camp location you would prefer to work at.

Camp activities include swimming, archery, low & high ropes challenges, climbing wall, gaga ball, arts & crafts, nature, science, and more.

The Y is looking for talented individuals with a passion for the YMCA’s mission and cause, an understanding of YMCA programs and services, and whose everyday values reflect the core YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

YMCA Buffalo Niagara is an equal opportunity employer committed to valuing diversity and practicing inclusion.

POSITION SUMMARY:

Provides direction, leadership, and guidance to counselors within the assigned groups. Plans and implements activities and ensures the safety of campers.

GENERAL WORK SCHEDULE:

This is a residential position where food and lodging are provided during hours of work. The work week follows the camper session which begins each Sunday and ends on Friday with a 24 hour break in-between. Dates of employment include a week of training starting June 22, 2025, 7 weeks of program, and concludes on August 16, 2025.

BENEFITS:

Complimentary YMCA Buffalo Niagara Membership, discounted program fees, paid sick leave, training and leadership development opportunities, and an outstanding work environment. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Oversee the activities of several camper groups. Plan and implement camp activities on schedule, as per the program design.
2. Provide direction and leadership to counselors of the assigned groups.
3. Identify and resolve problems. Implement the appropriate discipline techniques and procedures.
4. Pursue innovative and creative ways to implement camp components.
5. Ensure effective communication with staff and parents of campers.
6. Develop and maintain positive, open communication between campers and camp staff.
7. Participate with campers when needed in the pool during swim lessons and free swim.
8. Maintain the work rules and regulations as stated by YMCA Buffalo Niagara and the NYS Health Department.
9. Perform administrative functions as assigned in the areas of attendance, parent evaluation and health records.
10. Assume the responsibilities of counselors when needed to cover absences.
11. Attend staff meetings and training sessions.
12. Implement ongoing safety checks to ensure a healthy and safe camp environment. Implement emergency procedures when necessary.
13. Follow and enforce department protocol to clean and disinfect commonly used surfaces. Ensure PPE compliance.
14. Maintain the cleanliness and organization of program/work areas.
15. Always remain with the assigned groups, and keep constant, visual track of all assigned campers unless they are relieved by a qualified staff person.
16. Organize and clean up the camp area at the beginning and end of each day.
17. Performs additional duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Must have one or more years of experience as a Senior Counselor or other equivalent position.
2. Excellent leadership and communication skills.
3. Able to successfully plan and lead activities for children in a camp environment.
4. Must be at least 18 years old.

Daily pay rate: $55