Overnight Camp - Specialist

Posted Tuesday, December 9, 2025 at 5:00 AM | Expires Monday, January 12, 2026 at 4:59 AM

overlooks beautiful Lake Ontario on 50 acres near Barker, NY.

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.

Plans and implements a specialized program segment within the program design, such as arts & crafts, archery, high/low ropes, rock wall climbing, sports, and STEM.

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 14, 2026, and concludes on August 15, 2026.

• Complimentary YMCA Buffalo Niagara Membership
• Discounted program fees
• Paid sick leave
• Training and leadership development opportunities
• An outstanding work environment

• Develop a daily schedule of activities relating to the specialty program allowing for flexibility and progression.
• Provide the supervisor with weekly program plans, materials list and objectives to be accomplished.
• Assist in camp training to demonstrate program activities in relation to camp themes.
• Ensure effective communication with staff and parents of campers.
• Develop and maintain positive, open communication between campers and camp staff.
• Responsible for the setup and breakdown of the specialty area, and for the maintenance and control of supplies and equipment.
• Submit a complete report at the end of summer which includes an inventory of equipment, program narrative, staff evaluation and future recommendations for improvement.
• Assist with the implementation of the overall camp program. Attend staff meetings and training sessions.
• Maintain the work rules and regulations as stated by YMCA Buffalo Niagara and the NYS Health Department.
• Follow and enforce department protocol to clean and disinfect commonly used surfaces. Ensure PPE compliance.
• Maintain the cleanliness and organization of program/work areas.
• Implement ongoing safety checks to assure a healthy and safe camp environment. Implement emergency procedures when necessary.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

• Must have one or more years of experience in camping, group work, recreation, or a related field.
• Must have experience and meet all the necessary qualifications/certifications related to the specialty program as required by YMCA Buffalo Niagara and regulatory agencies.
• Must be at least 18 years old or a high school graduate.