Head Counselor / Group Leader

At the MetroWest YMCA, our cause defines us. We know that lasting personal and social change comes about when we all work together. That's why, at the Y, strengthening community is our cause. Every day, we work side-by-side with our neighbors to make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.

Imagine going to work knowing that what you do each day positively impacts the lives of the people in your community. Working at the Y, you'll discover more than a job - you'll enjoy a career with a future and the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of those around you. Pay from $17.50 per hour! The job runs from June 22nd to August 21st with mandatory staff training dates to be shared at time of hire. Preference given to candidates who are able to commit to working a minimum of 7 weeks of the program.

Position Summary:

The Head Counselor/Group Leader is under the direct supervision of Unit Leader and Program Director and is responsible for overseeing a group of approximately 15-20 children, with 1 or 2 supporting counselors. This individual will be responsible for guiding children and counselors through a learning-centered summer of curriculum, activities, swim time, field trips and other program related experiences. Program counselors model the Y’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

This is a position best suited for someone with prior experience working in Out of School Time or summer camp programming.

Essential Functions:

· Build authentic and positive relationships with all children and counselors within the group.

· Maintain accurate and neat daily and weekly attendances

· Know number of children in the group at all times and communicate with counselors

· Review new child information at the beginning of the week and ensure that counselors know all important details.

· Engage with and supervise children using positive guidance and support methods.

· Maintain and record swim levels for children on roster each week (if required).

· Prepare for and actively participate in scheduled swim time (1 staff must swim with group).

· When necessary, implement provided curriculum or lead activities with the group as scheduled.

· Provide positive guidance and support to co- and junior counselors within the group.

· Model relationship-building skills in all interactions.

· Ensure that the Leadership Team and/or Inclusion staff are given proper documentation and made aware of all behavioral issues, injuries and incidents that occur throughout the day, in a timely manner.

· Understand, follow, and enforce the safety and health regulations set forth by the YMCA and the Department of Early Education and Care.

· Encourage communication among counselors and children to leadership staff to maintain a happy and successful environment.

· Prepare for and actively participate in Summer Program activities that include dress up/theme days and special events.

· Attend and participate in family events, program activities, staff meetings/trainings, and professional development.

· Represent yourself and the MetroWest YMCA in a positive and professional manner.

· Be a role model to both children and counselors.

Qualifications:

A head counselor/group leader shall be at least 18 years of age and meet one of the following sets of requirements:

A. Have a Bachelor's Degree or an Associate's Degree; and have three months of experience working with school-age children; or

B. Have a high school diploma or equivalent; and have six months of experience working with school-age children including three months of supervised experience at a school-age childcare program; or

C. Have nine months of experience with school age children including three months of supervised experience at a school-age childcare program.

Physical Demands:

· Must have the physical ability to plan, lead, and participate in physical summer program games and activities.

· Must be comfortable in outdoor setting in various weather conditions

· Works in a busy indoor and outdoor environment.

· Be comfortable swimming and around bodies of water. Counselors are expected to swim with their group during scheduled times.

The MetroWest YMCA is a nonprofit organization with the goal of strengthening the foundations of our community. We do this through programs that help build a healthy mind, body and spirit for all, and our programs are built around our three focus areas: Healthy Living, Youth Development and Social Responsibility. The Y is open to all, and we pride ourselves on

the diversity of our members and employees. As an employer, the Y seeks to recruit energetic professionals, encourage work-life balance, and provide opportunities for growth and development. Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job Types: Temporary, Part-time, Seasonal

Salary: From $ 17.50 per hour

Benefits:

· Employee discount

· Referral program

· Free Y Membership during employment

Schedule:

· 8-hour shift (8:30am-4:30pm)

· Additional hours may be required to cover extended care options (7-8:30am & 4:30-6pm)

· Monday to Friday

· Preference is given to applicants who commit to minimum of 7 weeks of the program

· Available to work two Family Events during the summer (6:30-8:00pm, 7/10 & 7/31)

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Framingham, MA 01701: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Experience:

• Childcare: 1 year (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Temporary

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Referral program

Work Location: In person