Camper Support Specialist

Position: Camper Support Specialist

Wage: $510.00 to $540.00 per day (Compensation is determined based on relevant experience, skills, and qualifications, with most new hires starting between the minimum and midpoint of the posted wage range)

Hours: Seasonal, Up to 40 hours per week

Dates of Employment: June 7th, 2027 to August 20th, 2027

Location: Camp Seymour, Gig Harbor, WA

At Camp Seymour, you get to teach kids self-reliance, a love for nature and the outdoors, and the development of attitudes and practices that build character and leadership – all amidst the fun of campfires, canoeing, archery, talent shows, and meaningful relationships.

As the Camper Support Specialist, you will work within the healthcare team and provide support to Unit Leaders for Campers with special medical and behavioral needs. Provide quality experience to campers and families and represent the YMCA and self in a professional manner of safety and fun.

*This is a Residential position that includes room and board.*

Qualifications:

• Minimum age of 21.
• Two summers previous camp staff experience or equivalent (preferred).
• Specialized and practical knowledge of/ experience in: cabin and camp leadership, teen leadership and supervision; staff management, development, and motivation.
• Outstanding ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to train, motivate, support, share insights & ideas with, and supervise staff guards and instructors; communicate openly with supervisor; organize, facilitate, and evaluate activities; support and connect with campers; perform duties as specified in job description and by supervisor; behave as an appropriate positive role model in all camp activities.
• Required: Advanced knowledge and passion for behavior management, youth development, mental health, and de-escalation tactics.
• Sensitivity to the needs of families including adults and children.
• Current first aid, CPR, and AED certifications strongly preferred.
• Lifeguarding certification preferred.
• Must be able to pass Background and Reference checks (in accordance with the WA State Fair Chance Act).
• You are committed to valuing and promoting diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.
• Able and willing to complete online Child Abuse Prevention training on first day, and other online and in-person training as required.

Key Responsibilities:

• Review health histories for all campers of note, and communicate behavioral considerations of campers to appropriate staff, such as Director staff, Unit Leaders, Cabin Leaders, and Program Area staff.
• Respect campers’ right to privacy, handling personal issues sensitively and sharing information on a need-to-know basis only.
• Provide support in the event of a behavioral incident with campers, especially those with special needs or known/diagnosed behavioral disorders.
• Establish and maintain clear phone, and in person, communication with parents/guardians regarding daily check-ins, camper health, or behavioral concerns in collaboration with the Camp Director, including unit leaders and other staff as appropriate.
• Field questions from parents of campers with special behavioral needs prior to the start of their week of camp
• Assist with check in and check out. You are an integral part of the parent communication team.
• Take a leadership role during staff training to help educate staff and provide tools to successfully work with campers that need extra support.

Benefits:

• 40 hours/week with Saturday and Sunday’s off
• Ability to apply as an internal candidate to a year-round, Full or Part-Time position
• Build lasting connections and employment experience
• Accrue Paid Sick Leave at 1.23 hours for every 40 hours worked

At the Y, we’re all about empowering people, inspiring action, and strengthening the communities we call home. Join our team and support our vision of creating opportunity so all can thrive in every season of life. To apply, visit our website at .

Please note that employment with the YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties is contingent upon successfully completing post-offer requirements, which may include age verification, reference checks, and state and national background checks. All inquiries and checks are conducted only after a conditional offer of employment is made.

The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties is committed to diversity and inclusion throughout our organization and is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Women/Minority/Veteran/Disabled