If you are interested in youth development and making a difference in your community, please feel free to apply for a seasonal summer day camp position with our Greater Bergen YMCA. The application process is lengthy, so please apply early. Most camp positions are filled before mid-May with interviews starting as early as January for some positions. The YMCA of Greater Bergen County Day Camp serves a diverse group of children composed from Bergen County community, which is globally diverse, built upon the YMCA core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. Our goal is for each child to enjoy safe adventures, make new friends and have joyful experiences every day. Camp Oratam is located 45 minutes from Hackensack in Harriman Park, NY, along Lake Kanawauke. All counselors and campers are bused to camp from our location. Camp activities include swimming, boating, fishing, arts & crafts, sports & games, archery, nature, hiking, rock climbing and challenge/low ropes course. Camp is co-ed for youth ages 5-16.
Employment Application Process
- Applicant submits application.
- Applications are reviewed for the proper and matching camp/position.
- Directors call eligible applicants for a phone screening.
- Directors arrange in-person interviews with selected top candidates.
- Background and reference checks are performed.
All applications must be filled out completely with personal and professional references. Professional references for young adults or teens may include teachers, coaches or volunteer managers. Incomplete applications will not be considered for review. Complete applications should be sent to:
Attn: Camp Hiring Manager
Mary Sullivan
C/O Greater Bergen YMCA
360 Main Street
Hackensack, NJ 07601
You may Email your application and interest to: msullivan@metroymcas.org
The Y’s camp season runs from the end of June through the end of August. All hired staff will need to attend a minimum of 30 hours of pre-camp trainings on some evenings and most Saturdays in June. Higher level camp positions also require pre-camp planning as part of the position requirements.
All open camp positions for the season are listed below.
Healthcare Administrator
We seek a qualified individual who will provide a safe and nurturing environment for campers and staff. The Healthcare Administrator will be directly responsible for the health and wellness, care and needs of campers and staff around the clock during camp sessions. You will compile and interpret medical forms for all participants, and communicate information to necessary personnel. The Healthcare Administrator will be responsible for the safe dispensing of medications daily and following treatment plans as directed by overseeing physician(s). Provide first aid treatment and determine when additional care is required. Maintain accurate records of all incidents, treatments and medications. Maintain health service supplies, ensure first aid kits and health center is stocked. Implement health care policies and procedures. Keep parents informed about any incident involving their child/ren. Keep Director informed about all incidents concerning staff members and/or campers. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree, be a registered EMT, LPN or RN. Have all current First Aid/CPR/BLS/NYS certifications.
Waterfront Director (21 yrs. and older)
The experience Waterfront Director will be responsible for supervising and managing all aspects of safety and programs at the camp waterfront, within guidelines of the NYS Health Department, American Camping Association and the Metro YMCA of the Oranges. The Director will also be responsible for assessing each camper's and staff member's swimming ability to determine appropriate swim levels and approved water activities. The right candidate will possess a High School Diploma or equivalent; three (3) years lifeguard experience, open water preferred, current First Aid/CPR/AED certifications, WSI preferred.
Adventure Counselor (21 yrs. and older)
Adventure Counselor will plan, direct, and supervise specialized activities including but not limited to, camping, rock climbing, low ropes challenge course, hiking, nature, and general outdoor skills/activities. S/he will lead, motivate, and provide a safe camp program which fosters children's social, physical, and intellectual growth. Counselors must have the ability to lead activities, be a group leader, and demonstrate flexibility. The right candidates will possess previous experience or extensive knowledge of instructing and leading camping, rock climbing, hiking, fishing and general outdoor activities. Must be safety conscious and energetic, who is able to relate well with campers, staff and parents. Prior experience with youth programming, previous experience in summer camp or YMCA preferred. CPR/AED- Professional rescuer, Wilderness First Aid, and Lifeguard certifications a must or willingness to certify.
Group Counselor (18 yrs. and older)
As a group counselor, you will be responsible for the overall management and leadership of a camp group. The counselor will oversee and be responsible for the safety of a group of campers in daily camp activities. S/He will lead, motivate and provide a safe camp program which fosters children's social, physical and intellectual growth, along with having fun. The ideal candidates will have the ability to lead activities, be a group leader, and demonstrate flexibility when needed. Previous experience working with children in the outdoors. CPR/First Aid/Lifeguard certifications a must or willingness to certify.
Specialty Counselors (18 yrs. and older)
Specialty Counselors are responsible for organizing special programming for our camp, from how to build a campfire to leading day hikes. Your role will be to focus on creative camp programming and scheduling that provides a fun-filled environment and exposes our campers to new ideas and activities. Must have at least two years experience working in camps. Must be able to lead activities, be a group leader, and demonstrate flexibility when needed. Must possess a CPR/First Aid/Lifeguard certification or willing to certify.
Camp Program Director (21 yrs. or older)
As part of the leadership team, the Program Director will assist the Site Director with day-to-day programming and camp special events. The Program Director will be responsible for developing programs that develop and grow our campers, providing a fun-filled, safe environment, and guiding campers and their counselors through the daily schedule. The ideal candidate will possess excellent customer service, communication, and mature decision-making abilities. Must have at least three (3) years experience working in camps with the ability to lead activities. Must have CPR/First Aid/Lifeguard certifications or willing to certify.
Teen Program Leader (18 yrs. or older)
The Teen Program Leader will provide leadership and support to our teen campers ages 13- 16, with a minimum of two (2) years experience working with children, preferably teaching experience or background in working with teens. Teen program leaders work closely with camp leadership to lead, motivate, and provide safe programs which foster social, physical and intellectual growth. Must have the ability to be physically active all day, lead activities, be a group leader, and demonstrate flexibility when needed. Prior experience with youth programming, with previous experience in summer camp or YMCA preferred. Must be CPR/AED-Professional Rescue, Wilderness First Aid, Lifeguarding certifications. Must obtain certifications prior to start of camp.
Lifeguard (18 yrs. or older)
Lifeguards will be responsible for the safety and supervision of the designated swimming area. We seek self-motivated and organized individuals who will also be responsible for maintaining and improving the quality of program delivered and the involvement of all, by providing safe environment for all participants. The ideal candidates will have strong communication skills. Step in and assume other camp duties as needed. Must adhere to New York State Health Department codes and guidelines. Must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Must have or be able to obtain current First Aid/CPR and YMCA Lifeguard and Swim Instructor certifications. Must be able to pass lifeguard skills test.
Professional development opportunities and complimentary use of YMCA facilities.
We are proud to be an EEO/AA/employer M/F/D/V. Employment is subject to extensive background check.