YMCA Camp Greider - Counselor 2026

JOB TITLE: Camp Counselor

DEPARTMENT: Camp (40) - Camp Greider

REPORTS TO: Assistant Directors / Camp Greider Director

LOCATION: Camp Greider

STATUS: Seasonal

PAY RATE: $555+ per week DOE

Our Culture

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.

Position Summary

Camp Greider has been offering unique and high quality summer camps to youth, ages 6-15 since 1978. Instruction in a variety of specialty topics is combined with a well-rounded outdoor summer day camp program experience at our beautiful location out in West Salem. A convenient check in/out location at the downtown Salem Y, and extended daytime hours add to the popularity. Youth attend one or more weeks throughout the summer. Age appropriate groups are kept to a small, 1:8 ratio of adults to youth for a fun summer experience for all.

The Camp Counselor is responsible for planning and leading camp activities as well as guiding campers in their personal growth and social-emotional skills. They are leaders for a specific group of campers each week, and provide supervision, support, and guidance for their group, while acting as a role model within the camp community.

Essential Functions

• Provide a safe environment for youth ages 6-15
• Supervise and participate with groups of youth in a variety of indoor and outdoor activities, including swimming, games, arts/crafts, archery, boating and more.
• Plan and lead organized games and other age appropriate activities.
• Interact and relate with youth and serve as a positive role model.
• Work as a team with other Counselors, Lead Program Staff, Instructors and Supervisors
• Assist with daily set-up, daily clean-up, and transportation.
• Carry out the goals, themes and schedule of the program to provide a consistent and high quality experience.
• Maintain knowledge of association policies, procedures, risk management, and safety practices
• Demonstrate commitment to quality, the YMCA’s core values, and joy in working with youth of all ages

This job description may not be all inclusive and employees are expected to perform all other duties as assigned and directed by management. Job descriptions and duties may be modified when deemed appropriate by management.

Entry Requirements

• Age 18 or older
• Experience working with youth ages 6-15
• Experience implementing youth activities and supervising youth in groups of 8 to 20
• Willing and able to swim & physically play with youth on a daily basis
• Flexible, creative and articulate
• Ability to work in an outdoor environment and display an appreciation and understanding of the natural environment to campers.
• Individual is capable of effective and appropriate mental, emotional and social responses in a constantly changing, youth-centered environment
• Must be available during all of the following date:

June 14 - June 20 (Mandatory All-Staff Training)

June 22 - August 22 (Camp Season & Move-Out)

• Completion of all staff training prior to the program start date or training due dates. Training is provided as needed after hiring.
• Must be CPR and First Aid certified or willing to become certified within the first 30 days of employment. (Certification classes available upon employment.)
• Current Oregon Food Handler’s Certification, or ability to obtain certification.

Preferred Qualifications

• Training in child development, elementary education, early childhood, recreation, or similar fields
• Experience in a day camp, recreation or school age care setting
• Organized and highly responsible
• Experience working as a member of a team
• Customer service or public relations experience and training

Physical/Mental Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Must be physically capable of observing and listening for stressful situations at all times.
• Must be physically capable of lifting 40 pounds.
• Must be able to quickly reach a person and/or situation to prevent harm.
• Capable of effective and appropriate mental, emotional and social responses in a constantly changing, youth centered environment.
• Able to work outdoors in varying weather conditions (rain, heat, etc.)

All candidates must have reliable transportation. Job offers are contingent upon completion of a rigorous criminal history background check.