Junior Unit Leader
COMPENSATION:
$450 / Weekly
POSITION DURATION:
May 16, 2026 - August 1, 2026
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Junior Unit Leader works closely with the Overnight Program Director and the Senior Unit Leader. This position will be responsible for all campers and counselors in the designated age range - typically ranging between 7 & 11. Unit Leaders are in charge of morning activity breakouts, counselor pairings, assisting with behavioral issues and holding counselors to high standards through support and accountability, as well as preparing the necessary paperwork to set their counselors up for success in following weeks. Unit leaders should be comfortable with open and prompt communication with parents and supervisors surrounding and behavioral or other concerns. The people in these positions must be self motivated and able to fulfill the “see a need, fill a need philosophy”
This position will have housing provided. A great fit for one of the Junior Unit Leader positions is somebody with supervisory experience, multiple years of summer camp experience and great rapport with former supervisors. The Junior Unit Leader must have a thorough understanding of the YMCA’s mission and goals, and a desire to work with children between the ages of 7 and 17. Leadership skills, enthusiasm, patience, a sense of humor and self-control are all essential. The Unit Leader should have experience in leading and motivating staff.
OUR CULTURE:
Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Leadership:
- Be a role model for & develop positive relationships with camp counselors.
- Actively supervise and support camp counselors, enabling them to provide high quality programming. Hold camp counselors accountable to camp rules and expectations.
- Ensure camp counselors get adequate time off.
- Assist with staff training
- Be a role model for & develop positive meaningful relationships with youth.
- Provide children with the opportunities to make new friends and learn new activities.
- Be aware of health and safety concerns.
- Ensure that Camp Erdman is a positive and memorable experience instilling a strong desire to return in every camper.
Programming:
- Provide innovative and fun programming including leading skill tracks and cabin times.
- Operate your program within the Camp Erdman schedule.
- Foster a sense of ownership in programs and facilities.
- Other duties as required that pertain to the operation of a summer camp.
- Attend staff trainings and meetings.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Lifeguard Certification
- Bus Driver Certification
- Supervisory Experience
- Prior Summer Camp Experience
- Peer Leadership
- High Ropes Certification required
- Experience working with children
- CPR/AED & First Aid required
- TB test required
Why the Y?:
- Free Y membership with employment
- Referral bonuses - Y employees can earn cash or Y credit bonuses for referring a new hire*
- Up to 60% discounts for yourself, family, and even your siblings on Y programs, camps, preschool, childcare, and more.
Child Protection Commitment:
The YMCA requires all staff to share responsibility for preventing child abuse by upholding professional boundaries, completing mandatory Praesidium training, and reporting concerns. All candidates must successfully complete a comprehensive background screening, including criminal and sex offender checks.
*See job opportunities page for full details