Day Camp Specialty Counselor

Day Camp Specialty Counselor (Agriculture)

Day Camp Gathering Pines in Lakeville, MN is seeking enthusiastic and responsible Camp Specialty Counselors, Age 18+, to play the role of camp counselor and provide leadership to one of the camp units. This position is seasonal;
June 15 - September 4th Monday-Friday (plus some required staff training beginning on May 27th.) Pay rate is $16.50 an hour.

For 2026 we will be hiring a specialty camp counselor for the following camp units:

• Nature and Science
• Aquatics
• Art and Imagination
• Outdoor Sports

The ideal candidate is someone who enjoys working in the outdoors and with kids! Preference will be given to candidates with role specific experience, are available to work through the end of the summer, and can attend all of staff training.

The Day Camp Specialty Counselor is responsible for facilitating safe and meaningful day camp experiences in a small group setting AND providing leadership to a specialty program or program area. The Specialty Counselor may work in-ratio with a group and/or out of ratio as a support staff. The incumbent will provide high quality outdoor educational and recreational experiences for participants that focus on the YMCA core values of caring, equity, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

• Provide leadership for a specific camp program or program area (target sports, outdoor sports, arts & crafts, etc)

  • Provide guidance, mentorship, and support to counselors and assistant counselors.
  • Lead or assist with staff training sessions related to specialty program activities, safety procedures, and best practices.
  • Collaborate with the Camp Lead and Director team to plan, refine, and enhance program design and curriculum.
  • Maintain organization, cleanliness, and inventory of program materials, equipment, and facilities
  • Model effective group management, positive camper interactions, and enthusiastic program engagement for other staff.
  • Serve as a key point of contact for specialty program questions or troubleshooting during camp hours.
  • Communicate program needs, supply requests, and maintenance issues to the Camp Lead or Director promptly.

• Assist in the direction, supervision, and organization of campers in their camper group within activities and throughout the camp in order to meet the intended camper outcomes.

  • Apply Social Emotional Learning concepts and basic youth development principles in working with campers through communication, relationship development, respect for diversity, involvement, and empowerment of youth.
  • Ability to communicate and work with groups (all ages and skill levels) and provide necessary instruction to campers.
  • Assures campers are properly supervised at all times.
  • Be aware of and implement safety guidelines and procedures within camp activities.

• Participate in the development and implementation of program activities for campers within the mission and outcomes.

  • Responsible for leading or assisting with the teaching of activities.
  • Actively participate in all program areas as assigned.
  • Provide a progression of activities within the framework of individual and group interests and abilities.
  • Organize and lead a variety of small and large group activities and programs each week. Activities may include crafts, nature, songs, games, swimming, archery, canoeing, Family Night, etc.

• Maintain high standards for health and mental health in all activities for campers.

  • Provide daily care for each camper within your supervision.
  • Ability to respond appropriately to situations requiring first aid. Must be able to assist campers in an emergency (fire, evacuation, illness, or injury) and possess strength and endurance required to maintain constant supervision of campers.
  • Ability to identify and respond to camper behavior, assess its appropriateness, enforce appropriate safety regulations and emergency procedures, and apply appropriate behavior-management techniques in alignment with camp training and proactive response.
  • Ensure that campers receive their medications as directed by Camp Health Manager.
  • Be alert to campers needs and assist them with personal and/or health problems; discuss with camp health manager and/or camp…