Are you ready for the hardest job you’ll ever love? As a YMCA camp counselor at Camp New York, you’ll create unforgettable memories, develop leadership skills, and make a meaningful impact on children’s lives. Every day brings new adventures, challenges, and moments of joy that will transform not just the campers, but you too!
Join Our Summer Camp Team!
Ready to have the summer of a lifetime while building valuable skills? We’re looking for enthusiastic, caring individuals to join our team of camp counselors.
What Does a YMCA Camp Counselor Do?
As a camp counselor, you’ll be the heart and soul of the camp experience. You’ll guide, mentor, and inspire campers while creating a safe, fun environment where children can grow, learn, and thrive.
Primary Responsibilities
- Lead and supervise a cabin group of 10-12 campers throughout their camp experience
- Plan and implement engaging daily activities and special events
- Ensure camper safety and well-being at all times
- Create an inclusive environment where all campers feel welcome
- Guide campers in developing friendships and social skills
- Lead specialized activities like swimming, archery, arts and crafts
You’ll Make an Impact By
- Being a positive role model who demonstrates YMCA values
- Creating memorable “moments” that make camp special
- Helping campers build confidence and independence
- Fostering a spirit of teamwork and cooperation
- Supporting each camper’s personal growth journey
- Building a community based on respect and kindness
“Being a camp counselor is the hardest job that you will ever love. You’re going to bed exhausted every single night, but you’re so excited to wake up in the morning and do it all again! Every day is full of moments that foster positive relationships, laughter, and the biggest smiles you can possibly imagine.”
What We’re Looking For
We seek counselors who are passionate about working with children and ready to make a positive impact. While experience is valuable, your enthusiasm and character are what matter most!
Required Qualifications
- Minimum age of 18 years by the start of camp
- Genuine enthusiasm for working with children
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work as part of a collaborative team
- Commitment to creating a safe, inclusive environment
- Physical stamina to participate in camp activities
- Ability to pass background check and health screening
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience working with children
- First Aid and CPR certification (training provided)
- Experience in specialized activities (sports, arts, etc.)
- Background in education, recreation, or child development
- Leadership experience in school or community settings
- Lifeguard certification (for waterfront positions)
Why Being a Camp Counselor Is an Amazing Opportunity
A summer as a camp counselor offers benefits that extend far beyond a typical summer job. You’ll gain valuable skills, create lasting memories, and make a real difference in children’s lives.
Professional Growth
Develop leadership, communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution skills that employers value in any career path.
Personal Development
Grow in confidence, resilience, and self-awareness while discovering strengths you never knew you had.
Meaningful Impact
Create transformative experiences for campers that they’ll remember for a lifetime.
Ready to Make an Impact?
Join our team and create memories that last a lifetime – for both you and your campers!
Compensation and Details
We value our counselors and offer competitive compensation along with an experience that goes beyond monetary benefits.
What We Offer
- Competitive weekly salary ($500-$550 based on experience)
- Room and board included during employment
- Comprehensive pre-camp training (all certifications provided)
- End-of-summer completion bonus
- Referral bonuses for bringing friends to our team
- Internship credit opportunities (where applicable)
- Weekends off with scheduled time away from camp
Employment Details
- Season runs from early June through mid-August
- Mandatory staff training week in early June
- 8-week main camp season with camper sessions
- Typical day runs from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM with breaks
- One day off per week plus evening time off
- Housing provided in staff cabins or counselor lodges
- All meals provided through our dining hall
Building Your Resume Through Camp Leadership
A summer as a camp counselor provides exceptional experience that stands out on resumes and college applications. Employers and admissions officers recognize the valuable skills developed through camp leadership.
“Camp counselor experience provides so much more than most summer opportunities or internships. You’ll have significant responsibilities, not simply experience as an observer. It opens doors by showing you’re a hard worker used to long hours, can lead diverse teams, troubleshoot problems, and create engaging programs.”
Skills You’ll Develop:
- Leadership and supervision
- Conflict resolution
- Program planning
- Problem-solving
- Adaptability
- Emergency response
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Cultural awareness
A Day in the Life of a Camp Counselor
Every day brings new adventures and opportunities to make a difference. Here’s what a typical day looks like for our camp counselors:
Morning (7:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
Wake up and prepare for the day, help campers with morning routines, lead flag raising, supervise breakfast, and guide morning activities like swimming, archery, or nature hikes.
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
Supervise lunch, oversee rest hour, lead specialized afternoon activities, facilitate free swim time, and prepare for evening programs while ensuring campers stay hydrated and energized.
Evening (5:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
Supervise dinner, participate in all-camp activities or special events, lead cabin bonding time, assist with bedtime routines, and hold meaningful cabin discussions before lights out.
Staff Support: You’re never alone! Our experienced leadership team provides ongoing mentorship, regular check-ins, and support throughout the summer to help you succeed and grow.
How to Apply
Ready to join our team? The application process is simple:
Complete Online Application
Fill out our comprehensive application form at campnewyork.org/apply-now/ with your background, experience, and interest in working with children.
Interview Process
Selected applicants will be invited for a video or phone interview with our camp leadership team to discuss your qualifications and answer any questions.
Reference Checks
We’ll contact your references to learn more about your character, work ethic, and experience with children or in leadership roles.
Background Check
All staff must pass a comprehensive background check as part of our commitment to camper safety.
Acceptance and Onboarding
Once accepted, you’ll receive employment paperwork and information about staff training and preparation for the summer.
Start Your Camp Counselor Journey Today!
Don’t miss this opportunity to have an unforgettable summer while making a difference in children’s lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need previous camp experience to apply?
What if I don’t have certifications in activities like lifeguarding or archery?
How many days off will I have during the summer?
Can I use this experience for college credit or internship requirements?
Make This Summer Count at Camp New York
Being a YMCA camp counselor is more than just a summer job – it’s an opportunity to grow, lead, and make a lasting impact. You’ll create memories that last a lifetime, develop valuable skills for your future, and be part of a community that values fun, growth, and positive youth development.
Ready for the Summer of a Lifetime?
Join our team of dedicated counselors and help create magical camp experiences for children at Camp New York!