Summer Camp Unit Leader

Careers by Empowering Futures, Building Communities  

Imagine going to work each day knowing that your efforts positively impact individuals and communities. As a global movement and the nation’s leading nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, the YMCA of Greater San Francisco offers more than just a job—we offer a career with a future and the opportunity to make a lasting difference in your community. At the Y, you can uncover your passion and build a lifelong career addressing some of the nation’s most pressing social issues. 

Our Organizational Culture  

At the YMCA of Greater San Francisco, we are committed to demonstrating values that aim to building strong communities where you can Be, Belong and Become. With Truth & Courage, we strive to understand and act on individual and societal truths. We ensure a safe and inclusive environment with Authenticity & Accessibility, allowing everyone to participate according to their needs. Our approach is Dependable & Creative, as we respond to community needs through strong partnerships. Above all, we embody Dignity & Empathy, treating everyone with respect and compassion, and recognizing the inherent dignity in all individuals. 

Position Summary 

Under the supervision of the Camp Director, the Camp Unit Leader oversees all aspects of their unit’s daily operations and ensures a safe, engaging, and educational camp experience. This role involves supervising staff, planning and implementing outdoor education and recreational activities, and fostering a strong connection between participants and nature. The Camp Unit Leader plays a key role in program development, safety management, and team leadership, ensuring alignment with the YMCA’s mission and goals while providing a positive experience for participants, parents, and staff. 

Summer Camp Program Dates: 

• San Francisco: June 9 to August 15, 2025 

• San Mateo: June 16 to August 8, 2025 

• Marin: June 16 to August 15, 2025 

Job Responsibilities 

Staff Supervision & Leadership 

• Supervise and support Camp Leaders in the daily execution of activities and ensure smooth day-to-day operations within the unit. 

• Provide training, feedback, and support to staff and volunteers. 

• Delegate appropriate responsibilities to team members, fostering professional growth and efficient operations. 

• Collaborate with leadership staff to ensure cohesive teamwork and effective program delivery. 

Program Planning & Youth Engagement 

• Plan, coordinate, and evaluate unit activities that reflect participants’ interests and needs. 

• Develop inclusive curricula that respect cultural and developmental diversity. 

Safety & Compliance 

• Ensure adherence to safety protocols and respond to emergencies as needed. 

• Ensure facilities meet safety and cleanliness standards as per YMCA of Greater San Francisco and ACA guidelines. 

Administration & Communication 

• Maintain accurate administrative records, including attendance and emergency contact information. 

• Communicate effectively with participants, families, staff, and volunteers. 

Training & Professional Development 

• Complete mandatory YMCA training before the first shift. 

• Attend staff meetings and training sessions as required. 

Qualifications 

• Minimum 21 years of age. 

• High school diploma or equivalent. 

• Demonstrated experience working with youth and knowledge of youth development principles. 

• Strong interpersonal, leadership, and communication skills. 

• Available to work Monday through Friday during program hours (shifts may vary between 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM). 

• Ability to lead physical activities and support participant engagement. 

• TB Test clearance within last 2 years (for camp programs on school district sites). 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Experience in youth program supervision. 

• Bilingual skills in Spanish, Cantonese, Mandarin, Russian, or other languages are a plus but not required. 

Work Environment & Physical Demands 

The Camp Unit Leader works both in an administrative and direct program capacity. Indoors and outdoors in the day camp program setting, which involves exposure to varying weather conditions. The role requires the ability to lead and participate in physical activities such as sports, crafts, and games, and may involve lifting and carrying equipment up to 25 pounds. The position also demands standing, walking, and active engagement for extended periods, as well as the ability to respond quickly in emergencies or physically demanding situations. 

Disclaimers 

• Must successfully complete a background screening, including criminal and employment verification. Some positions may also require a credit check. 

• All duties and responsibilities are essential job functions subject to reasonable accommodation. The YMCA of Greater San Francisco promotes an equal employment opportunity workplace, which includes reasonable accommodation for otherwise qualified disabled applicants and employees. Please contact your manager if you have any questions about this policy or these job duties. 

• This job description may not be all-inclusive, and employees are expected to perform other duties as assigned by management. Job descriptions and duties may be modified by management as needed. 

• Job offers are conditional and contingent upon background clearance. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance and CA Fair Chance Act, we will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records for employment. 

Salary Description 

The hourly rate for the Day Camp Unit Leader position ranges from $23.00 to $28.00 per hour, based on experience, qualifications, and alignment with industry salary benchmarks. This rate is determined in accordance with grant funding approvals and organizational compensation guidelines, ensuring equity and competitiveness within the field.