Job Description

Why Your Role Matters

We are now hiring Camp Counselors for the Summer! Join the Greater Austin YMCA as a Summer Camp Counselor and help create amazing experiences for kids across Central Texas. You’ll be a role model, mentor, and activity leader, guiding campers ages 4–12 through games, swimming, field trips, creative projects, and outdoor adventures. You’ll help kids build confidence, make friends, and discover what they’re capable of. Every day is different. Every day matters.

As a YMCA Summer Camp Counselor, you may work in one of our exciting camp programs:

Adventure Camp

• Spend your days outside leading hiking, canoeing, rock climbing, and team building challenges. Adventure Camp focuses on nature based learning, confidence building, and exploration in a beautiful outdoor setting. This is perfect for counselors who love fresh air, movement, and hands on experiences.
• Programs run Monday through Friday between 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM.
• Location: Camp Moody, 1220 Old San Antonio Rd, Buda, TX 78610.

Day Camp at YMCA Centers

• Our traditional day camps are packed with swimming, games, creative activities, field trips, and group projects. You will guide a small group of campers through fun filled days that build friendships, encourage teamwork, and help kids try new things.
• Programs run Monday through Friday between 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM.
• Locations: Northwest Y, North Y, East Communities Y, Townlake Y, Southwest Y, Springs Y.

Day Camp at Partner Sites

• These camps take place in schools and community spaces and offer the same great YMCA camp experience with activities, swimming days, and field trips right in local neighborhoods. You will work with larger groups and play a key role in bringing summer fun to families across Central Texas.
• Programs run Monday through Friday between 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM.
• Locations: Elementary schools and churches across Austin, Manor, and Hays including AISD, Manor ISD, Hays CISD, RRISD, and Charter Schools.

Availability Expectations

Counselors must have flexible availability during program hours and reliable attendance throughout the summer season. Full availability is strongly preferred to ensure consistency for our campers and teams. We encourage candidates to apply early as positions fill quickly. Most YMCA summer camps begin in late May or early June and run through August.

How You Make an Impact

• Inspire and lead youth in engaging daily activities that promote growth, development, teamwork, and fun.
• Supervise groups of campers, ensuring their safety, well-being, and positive engagement throughout the day.
• Plan and implement creative schedules that include enrichment, recreation, and hands-on learning experiences.
• Promote physical wellness and team spirit through games, sports, and active play.
• Foster social-emotional growth by modeling positive behavior and the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
• Maintain a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all participants, following YMCA policies and applicable childcare and safety standards.
• Communicate effectively with campers, families, and staff, providing updates and addressing concerns with professionalism and empathy.
• Support program operations through attendance tracking, documentation, organization, and activity planning.
• Participate in staff training, meetings, and professional development opportunities.
• Serve as a positive ambassador of the YMCA’s mission, vision, and values, contributing to a strong and supportive community.
• Complete other duties as assigned.

What You Bring to the Y   

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• A minimum of one year of experience in camps, childcare programs, or similar environments is preferred.
• Ability to work outdoors for extended periods in varying weather conditions.
• First Aid/CPR certifications (training provided during onboarding).
• For Camp Moody site location- Willingness to obtain and maintain any required program-specific certifications (e.g., climbing, canoeing, ropes course).
• Growth Mindset: Learn and improveto better serve members and the mission.
• Team Player: Work collaboratively with others and support a positive team environment.
• Communicates Effectively: Listen actively and communicate clearly with members and peers.
• Customer Focused: Anticipates needs and ensures quality, member-centered service.
• Fosters Belonging: Ensure everyone feels welcomed, respected, and included.

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, hike outdoors in hot temperatures, bend, talk, and occasionally lift and/or move items, including equipment, furniture, and/or children. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.