News: Head Summer Camp Counselor

Date Published Author
3/3/2026 12:00:00 AM  Jeremy Fila 

Head Summer Camp Counselor

Summer Camp Dates: June 1-August 14
Orientation: May 26-29 (Mandatory)

Description:
The Head Counselor is responsible for the management and supervision of a comprehensive summer camp program serving children in grades Kindergarten to 9th grade. This includes the planning, scheduling, execution, and evaluation of the 10-week camp sessions offered at the York Center Park District. The goal is to further the mission of the program through the development and delivery of crafts, activities, games and sports that are safe, fun, and appropriate to the program's age and abilities. This position requires a high level of responsibility as you will be the on-site go-to for all parents and staff. 

The Head Counselor will work independently and alongside ALL camp, office, and building staff. Assist in the management of the physical operation of the equipment and facilities. Reports to Camp Assistant Supervisor and Camp Supervisor.

Head Counselor Responsibilities

  • Work with groups of campers and provide a fun, safe, and exciting camp experience.
  • Supervise swim time in a hands-on manner from within the water, as needed (lifeguard certification not required)
  • Work with and assist in the supervision of counselors and campers in a supportive manner.
  •  Create and execute weekly activity/lesson plans.
  • Complete and submit daily and weekly documentation and newsletters
  • Greet families and campers upon arrival and help orientate them to camp.
  • Establish rules with campers and staff and review emergency procedures.
  • Manage parent expectations by knowing your campers and conversing with parents at pick-up and drop-off times.
  • Assist Assistant Supervisor in managing any non-staff issues that may arise including, but not limited to, camper behavior issues, parent complaints, etc.
  • Assist in the Counselor in Training (CIT) Program.
  • Complete other duties, as assigned.

Requirements:
  • Must be 18 years or older
  • High School Diploma or equivalent. Some College; Preferred: College degree in Education, Recreation or related field preferred. Candidates who do not retain an Education, Recreation, or related degree but have qualified experience will be considered at the discretion of the hiring authority.
  • Strong interest, maturity, and judgment in working with children in an outdoor setting
  • Minimum of 2 years of knowledge and experience in a camp setting with experience
  • Possess the ability to work as a team member with other counselors and Park Staff members.
  • Responsible, friendly, enthusiastic, patient, and willing to learn 
  • Must obtain First Aid/CPR certification
  • Must complete mandated reporter training
  • Possess a valid driver's license (Preferred)

Qualifications:
  • Ensure the safety of all camp participants including summer staff.
  • Responsible for training and supervising summer camp counselors
  • Responsible for planning, organizing, executing, and evaluating the formal training program for summer camp counselors
  • Provide the highest level of customer service to parents, staff, and children enrolled in our camps and the general public within the building.
  • Able to enforce building, camp, and staff guidelines and policies
  • Participate in daily activities with the counselors and campers.
  • Able to recognize and respond effectively to emergencies.
  • Directly supervise and support Counselors, and children within specified camps.
  • Manage announcements daily for parents, campers, and staff.
  • Have strong customer service and teamwork orientation.
  • Able to give verbal direction to subordinates, and communicate effectively with co-workers and supervisors.
  • Perform other related work as assigned by the Supervisor or Assistant Supervisor.
  • Able to work in indoor and outdoor environmental conditions
  • Able to hike, stand, sit, and crouch for extended periods of time, as well as occasionally lifting objects up to 30 lbs.
  • Demonstrate patience and positive attitude and the ability to manage challenging situations with children and maintain a positive demeanor.   
  • Able to adapt to changes in environment and program structure
  • Able to work independently and with others  


Return to News