Program associate Jobs in Paterson, NJ

Program Coordinator

Under the general direction of the Camp Director, the Program Coordinator will be responsible for the safety of campers, and assist in implementing high quality camp programming. As a member of the Camp staff, the Program Coordinator shall design and implement activities tailored to the skills and interests of each age group.

Daily work will consist of working with other counselors to bring about quality programming in a variety of program areas. Activities should nurture creativity, cooperation, skill and self-esteem.

YMCA of Greater Bergen County operates traditional day and resident camps in Harriman State Park, NY, along Lake Kanawauke, providing a beautiful natural setting. The camp is 45 minutes from Hackensack, where our YMCA is located; all counselors and campers are bused to camp from the YMCA. Camp activities include swimming, boating, fishing, arts & crafts, sports & games, archery, nature, hiking, rock climbing, and challenge/low ropes course.

Essential Functions:

• Ensure, above all else, campers are safe and well supervised.
• Plan, setup and deliver a variety of program activities, theme days, and family nights, in conjunction with the Specialists and Counselors that keep children's interests high; assist in family nights and special events as needed.
• Consistently greet campers and parents with a smile and treat them with enthusiasm.
• Connect with staff, campers and parents, making all feel welcome and included.
• Review regularly with Camp Director/ Assistant Director all concerns, priorities, progress, problems, reports and all matters dealing with camp and programs.
• Oversee, effectively monitor and follow all safety guidelines associated with camp and all program areas.
• Identify and report maintenance concerns in a timely fashion.
• Work with Camp Director and other leadership to develop consistent communication practices and program initiatives.
• Work in cooperation with all staff and other programs on the property.
• Attend all staff meetings, special events and training events as scheduled.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Safety:

• Must attend and complete all required trainings.
• At all times, uphold camp safety standards. Maintain constant face counts. Will understand and practice risk management and disaster policies and procedures.
• Help maintain group control and facilitate lunchtime activities.
• Follow all YMCA, ACA, and NJ Licensing standards and procedures to ensure the safest and best quality camp and to help maintain ACA accreditation.
• Secure and submit all accident reports, special plans, schedule changes, and evaluations to Camp Director when appropriate.
• Report all immediate concerns to Camp Director or nearest supervisor.
• Use two methods of discipline with campers to include redirection to appropriate activities and using positive reinforcement to commend good choices.

Other Duties:

• Always maintain a professional demeanor, as you are a representative of the YMCA.
• Wear Camp T-shirt daily.
• Maintain positive attitude, responsibility and self-motivation. Be punctual and reliable.
• Create a positive and nurturing learning environment to instill youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

Requirements

Qualifications:

• High school student or equivalent.
• Previous experience working with children preferably in a day camp setting, with a minimum of three previous camp seasons as a Counselor.
• Interest preferred in one or more of the following areas: outdoor living, archery, boating, camping, songs/music, skits, sports, aquatics, recreational games, etc.
• At least 18 years of age.
• Previous experience with diverse populations preferred.
• Basic understanding of youth development principles.
• First Aid & CPR certifications.
• Ability to problem solve and take initiative that adhere to the purpose, mission and goals of the YMCA.
• Ability to work as part of a team, as a role model and take initiative to identify potential risk factors and take measures to reduce them.

Physical Demands:

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Ability to plan, lead and participate in a range of activities in a variety of outdoor/indoor settings.
• Sufficient strength, agility and mobility to perform essential functions and to supervise program activities in a wide variety of indoor and outdoor locations (depending upon the programs).
• Ability to work in a variety of environments, specifically those subject to extreme heat and humidity.
• Physically and mentally able to respond to emergencies and administer CPR and First Aid.