Job Title:                   Lead Counselor

Branch:                     Oakbrook/Ponds/Downtown

FLSA Status:            Non-Exempt (Hourly) Part-Time

Reports To:           Program Director

Job:                       Starting Pay:  $15.00

Revision Date:         July 31, 2024

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES:

 

Provides direct supervision of a group of children in a seasonal day camp and/or afterschool program.  Provides a quality experience to children and parents focused on YMCA core values: honesty, respect, responsibility, and caring.

PRINCIPLE ACTIVITIES:

 

  • Assist Program Director with development of program activities that are culturally relevant, developmentally appropriate and consistent with YMCA values.
  • Serves as a supervisor and Co-Lead Counselor, but also as a support to childcare staff.
  • Administers and adheres to program standards including safety and cleanliness standards.
  • Plans and conducts staff meetings and trainings.
  • Implement and educate the staff on risk management concerns, policies and procedures, including those related to medical and disciplinary situations, child abuse prevention and emergencies. Needs to be sure HR receives all forms within a 24-hour period.
  • Models relationship-building skills (including Listen First) in all interactions. Responsible for first impressions with parents at designated facility.
  • Accepts and demonstrates the Y’s core values and has a desire to fulfill community needs.
  • Provides a high-quality experience to children and parents by planning and implementing program activities that are culturally relevant, developmentally appropriate, and consistent with the Y’s core values.
  • Improvises quickly and appropriately when faced with unexpected circumstances, so as to better meet the needs of members.
  • Maintains positive relationships with parents and other staff through seeking to understand the other’s point of view, building credibility, and remaining calm in challenging situations.
  • Communicates concerns, issues, and suggestions regarding the program, facility, staff, participants, and parents with Family Program Director.
  • Will contact parents regarding any participant concerns, absentees, balances, etc. throughout the summer or school year.
  • Will maintain the participant records such as emergency contacts, and special needs.
  • Should be able to register participants for programs and membership. Must be knowledgeable about all programs.
  • Other duties as assigned.

 

 

 

ABILITY TO:

  • Establish and maintain cooperative relationships with members, staff, and others contacted in the course of the work.
  • Maintain cooperative community relationships.
  • Exercise good judgment, flexibility, creativity, and sensitivity in response to changing situations and needs.
  • Set an example for the participants by displaying YMCA Core Values: caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
  • Communicate clearly and concisely, orally and in writing.
  • Ability to plan, lead and participate in a range of activities in a variety of outdoor/indoor settings.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Carrying _X_          Kneeling_X_             Pushing_X_              Sitting_X_

Climbing_X_            Lifting_X (min 25 lbs)_Running_X_           Stooping_X_

Crouching_X_          Pulling_X_                Standing_X_            Walking_X_

Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Y’s values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fundraising.

Collaboration: Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others.

Operational Effectiveness: Makes sound judgments and transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience. Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work and actively participates in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures, and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members.

Personal Growth: Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change, and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths and limitations and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • High school graduate or equivalent; one year or more of college preferred.
  • Previous experience working with children preferably in a day camp setting
  • Experience preferred in one or more of the following areas: outdoor living, archery, boating, camping, songs/music, skits, sports, aquatics, recreational games, etc…
  • At least 18 years of age (The age minimum may be higher depending on state law and YMCA policies.)
  • CPR, First Aid, AED certifications and Child Abuse Prevention training within 30 days of hire date.
  • Completion of all mandatory on-line courses – ALL COURSES MUST BE COMPLETED PRIOR TO 1ST DAY OF WORK.
  • Previous experience with diverse populations preferred.

EDUCATION:

 

High School diploma or equivalent.

COMPUTER SKILLS:

Proficient in the Windows Environment, emphasis on Word, and Excel.

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Employee Signature                                          Date

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Supervisor Signature                                          Date