Summer Camp Leader 2026

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

As a Camp Leader at the YMCA of Greater San Francisco, you will play a pivotal role in creating a safe, engaging, and enriching environment for youth during their summer day camp experience. You will lead activities that foster creativity, teamwork, and personal growth, ensuring that each child feels valued and included.

In this role, you will plan and execute a variety of theme-based programs, facilitate groups, games, and promote healthy habits through physical activity and enrichment. Your leadership and positive energy will inspire children to explore their interests, build meaningful relationships and develop lifelong skills. Under the guidance of Summer Camp Unit Leaders, you will also ensure the well-being of participants by adhering to safety protocols and maintaining open communication with staff and families.

Summer Camp Program Dates:

• San Francisco: June 9 to August 15, 2026
• San Mateo: June 16 to August 8, 2026
• Peninsula June 15th-Aug 18th

Job Responsibilities

Program Facilitation & Youth Engagement

• Facilitate and lead theme-based activities that celebrate cultural, developmental, and individual diversity.
• Engage youth in physical activities, promoting healthy habits aligned with Healthy Eating and Physical Activity (HEPA) guidelines.

Role Modeling & Conduct

• Serve as a positive role model by demonstrating the YMCA’s core values: caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

Safety & Compliance

• Enforce safety guidelines, monitor participant activities, and respond promptly to critical incidents.
• Follow policies outlined in the YMCA of Greater San Francisco Child and Youth Staff Manual.

Collaboration & Communication

• Collaborate with team members to maintain a supportive and effective work environment.
• Communicate effectively with participants, families, staff, and volunteers.

Training & Professional Development

• Complete all required training, including ADP Training Modules and Y-USA E-Learning, prior to the first shift.
• Participate in all mandatory staff meetings and training sessions.

Operational Expectations

• Arrive on time for shifts and adhere to program schedules and operational guidelines.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

Camp Leaders work in dynamic indoor and outdoor settings, such as parks, playgrounds, and community facilities, engaging youth in recreational and educational activities. The role requires frequent physical activity, including standing, walking, running, bending, and light lifting. Leaders must adapt to varying weather conditions and maintain energy and alertness to ensure safety and engagement.

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 Camp Leader position ranges from $19.50 to $24.00 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.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Strong enthusiasm for youth development and fostering inclusive environments.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a team and adapt to dynamic situations.
• Comfortable leading physical activities and promoting healthy behaviors.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Available to work Monday through Friday during program hours (shifts may vary between 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM).
• TB Test clearance within last 2 years (for camp programs on school district sites).
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with youth or in similar leadership roles (e.g., volunteering, caregiving).
• Bilingual skills in Spanish, Cantonese, Mandarin, Russian, or other languages are a plus but not required.