Horse Camp Counselor
Job Description
Job DescriptionDescription:
NOW HIRING FOR SUMMER 2026! Few environments are as special as camp! YMCA Camp Manitou-Lin has over 100 years of camping experience and is located on beautiful Barlow Lake in Middleville, Michigan. Our beautiful, natural setting provides an excellent opportunity for all who visit. We are committed to providing a camp experience rich in tradition centered on our core values, with a Christian emphasis, and allowing all who participate to gain 21st century skills, independence and life long memories.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Horse Camp Counselor provides direct supervision of a group of no more than 10 children, grades K-8th, in a summer camp outdoor setting. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: direct supervision of campers in either the Day Camp or Overnight Camp setting and leading activities focusing on values and 21st century life skills each day. This position instructs and or assists riding lessons in the arena, teach barn lessons, and lead trail rides. Must be at least 18 years of age.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Learn the likes/dislikes of each participant
- Be a positive role model for all campers and fellow staff
- Assist in getting horses ready in the morning and turning them out at night
- Assist in general care of horses including but not limited to watering, feeding, medicating, etc.
- Help maintain a safe riding program by monitoring trail rides, riding lessons and campers closely for dangerous situation
- Instruct and or assist during riding lessons based on experience
- Provide opportunities for the group so that each individual experiences success during camp
- Guide cabin or trail groups in participating successfully in all aspects of camp activities
- Supervise all assigned aspects of the campers’ day, including morning reveille, cabin clean-up, activities, meal times, rest hour, evening activities, getting ready for bed, and after-hours duties as assigned
- Help campers plan their participation in unit-wide or camp-wide programs, special events, and activities
Performs any other functions necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids
COMPENSATION
- Overnight Horse Camp counselors are required to live on site, housing is provided. Meals are provided Sunday - Friday. Staff are allowed to remain on site during the weekends throughout their seasonal employment if they choose. Scheduled time off will be granted each day.
- $65.00 - $70.00 per day; Seasonal; Non-Exempt
BENEFITS:
- Free YMCA Individual Membership – Enjoy full access to facilities.
- Retirement Savings – 12% employer retirement contribution, no match requirement (upon eligibility) and a 403(b) savings plan.
- Paid Sick Time – Earn paid sick leave so you can focus on feeling your best when it matters most.
- Professional Growth – Access to ongoing training, development programs, and career advancement opportunities.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Free, confidential resources and counseling for you and your family.
Requirements:
QUALIFICATIONS
- At least 18 years of age and a high school graduate or equivalent
- Previous experiences in camp, youth programs, recreation, working with children, or in a related field
- Demonstrated horseback riding experience is required
- Organizational skills to plan, schedule, and facilitate programs
- Ability to give supervision and guidance to staff
- Ability to plan, lead and/or assist in teaching an activity
- Ability to teach leadership skills
- Ability to teach and role model the Core Values of the YMCA and use of 21st century life skills
CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS
- Cardio Pulmonary Recitation (CPR) for rescue required
- First Aid certification required
- Blood borne pathogens training required upon hire
- State of Michigan criminal background clearance (ICHAT)
WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.