Camp Art Specialist

The Summer Camp Art Specialist brings enthusiasm, creativity, and imagination to the camp community and works collaboratively with counselors and summer staff to support a positive camp experience. The Art Specialist is responsible for the development and delivery of an engaging, developmentally appropriate art expression program for children ages 4–12, designed to encourage creativity, exploration, and individual self-expression. Programming will expose campers to a variety of artistic tools, techniques, and materials, including painting, sculpture, collage, mixed media, printmaking, and recycled or natural materials. Activities are designed to support fine motor development, problem-solving, creativity, and confidence, while allowing children to explore personal expression in a supportive, process-focused environment. The goal of the art program is to foster a love of creative expression, build self-esteem, and provide children with meaningful opportunities to experiment, create, and take pride in their work.  

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and implement engaging, developmentally appropriate art expression experiences for children ages 4–12 using a variety of tools and materials, including painting, sculpture, collage, mixed media, and found or natural materials. 
• Create and adapt art activities that encourage creativity, exploration, problem-solving, and individual self-expression as part of the overall summer camp experience. 
• Foster a supportive, inclusive, and process-focused environment where children feel confident taking creative risks and expressing themselves through art. 
• Collaborate effectively with camp leadership, counselors, and fellow staff to integrate art experiences into daily programming and special events. 
• Demonstrate flexibility, professionalism, and a cooperative attitude in response to program needs and job responsibilities. 
• Provide support to the Program Director, Assistant Director, Unit Leads, and Head Counselors as needed to ensure smooth program operations. 
• Attend and actively participate in all required staff trainings, meetings, and orientations. 
• Commit to availability for the full summer camp season. 
• Model positive personal habits, appropriate dress, respectful communication, and professional relationships that reflect camp values and set a positive example for campers. 

Qualifications:

Education: High School Diploma, BA required    

Experience: In accordance with New York State Department of Health (DOH) licensing regulations, all camp staff are required to participate in and successfully complete mandatory pre-camp counselor orientation and training prior to any interaction with or supervision of campers. Staff must demonstrate emotional maturity, good moral character, and personal integrity, as required by DOH standards. A genuine interest in and enjoyment of outdoor activities is also expected, as the camp program is largely outdoor-based. 

Licensing and/or Certifications: 

Accepted but not mandatory 

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:  

• Ability to work as a team member with other counselors and adult staff members. 
• Experience in working with children in a group setting. 
• Responsible, friendly, enthusiastic, patient and willing to learn.  

Compensation:

• This is a seasonal stipend-based position paid through payroll.
• The total summer stipend for this role is $5,260.08, covering the full Camp Funkist season (June 25–August 21, 2026), including required training days and scheduled camp days.
• Stipends are distributed semi-monthly in accordance with the YWCA payroll schedule and are prorated across all paid days in the season.
• This stipend reflects compensation for the full seasonal assignment and is not calculated on an hourly basis.