Camp Counselor - Camp Chimney Corners

As a Camp Counselor, your primary role is to provide care and guidance for one specific group of children. In addition, there are times in the day when counselors will work with other groups of children providing skill instruction.  

This job announcement is not intended to be inclusive of all functions, responsibilities and qualifications associated with the position, however, representative of the essential job functions and typical criteria considered necessary to successfully perform the position.

• Learn that it is our mission to help youth discover their potential through life-changing experiences and relationships. Counselors are the most important part of ensuring campers get the most from camp.
• Live with and work with a cabin or age group and ensure the health, safety, and well-being of the campers in your group.
• Participate in staff training to learn important skills for working with campers.
• Plan and lead activities for your group and also for other participants in the program.
• Help with large group activities.
• Participate in emergency drills and in the event of an emergency, carry out the emergency plans.
• Help ensure that camp stays clean and well cared for by supervising campers in daily chores, caring for equipment, and picking up litter. All members of the camp community are expected to pitch in on all chores and duties.
• Working at camp requires every staff member to cultivate a positive attitude and willingness to help in all areas of the camp experience.
• All staff will work 6 days a week with one, 24-hour period off each week and one night off. Staff will be given scheduled breaks during the workday, but the days are long, and counselors are on-duty much of the day and evening.

While many of the skills described are important or required, please let us know if you have alternative experiences or skills that make you well-suited for a position. As a values-based organization, we feel you will be happiest with us if you embrace and share the ideals and values of Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA. We strive to create a positive, supportive and fun work environment for our staff. It is expected that every member of our staff team treats others in a kind, fair and respectful manner. 

• Must be 18 years of age and/or have graduated from high school by the start of camp. Prior experience with one of our programs or with another camp program is preferred.
• Prefer staff who are certified or who are willing to become certified in Lifeguard Training, First Aid, and/or CPR.
• Prefer candidates who can commit to the full summer; however, we will work with staff to accommodate scheduling conflicts.
• Must be able to provide proof of a physical within the last 18 months and proof that you are up to date on all required immunizations.
• Under Massachusetts state law, our campus is a drug- and alcohol-free zone. No one, regardless of legal age, is permitted to consume alcohol or drugs including nicotine or tobacco products (including e-cigarettes) on the Becket-Chimney Corners properties.

• Housing and meals are provided on-site at no cost to the seasonal employee as part of the experience
• Gain valuable leadership and management skills that will help prepare you for future career opportunities and will reflect valuable work experience on your resume.
• Becket-Chimney Corners is located in the heart of the Berkshires, which is internationally acclaimed for the arts and cultural venues.
• Planned staff outings are available for staff time off. Camp provides transportation to local towns and cultural experiences for seasonal staff who do not have their own vehicle.  
• Work with other young adults from all over the US and from abroad. Many seasonal staff make lifelong connections working at camp.
• Access to a large network of camp alumni who can support you as resources for internships and career development.