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Camp Counselor Jobs in Park Ridge, IL (NOW HIRING)

The Camp Counselor leads and acts as a model to a group of campers in a variety of activities, including sports, competitive and non-competitive games, songs, crafts, swimming, and field trips.

If so, we want YOU to join our Day Camp team as a Day Camp Counselor! This is more than a job-it's an opportunity to create unforgettable experiences for children while building leadership, teamwork ...

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Camp Counselor information

See Park Ridge, IL salary details

$6

$14

$22

How much do camp counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for camp counselor in Park Ridge, IL is $14.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.83 and $16.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a camp counselor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Camp Counselor, you need leadership skills, basic first aid knowledge, and experience working with children, often supported by a high school diploma or higher. Familiarity with safety protocols, activity planning tools, and certifications like CPR/First Aid are typically required. Strong communication, patience, and problem-solving abilities help counselors engage campers and handle diverse situations. These skills are crucial for ensuring a safe, positive, and enriching camp experience for all participants.

What does a camp counselor do?

Camp counselors supervise and educate children and teens in day and overnight camping programs. They plan and lead activities based on the nature of the camp and their specialties. For example, a summer camp may include swimming lessons, and the camp counselor must be able to teach, supervise, and perform CPR during swim sessions. A drama camp may need a camp counselor to instruct young kids on acting techniques for a stage performance. Camp counselor duties may also include overnight supervision, food service, outdoor training, and basic first aid.

What are common challenges camp counselors face and how can they handle them?

Camp counselors often encounter challenges such as managing group dynamics, addressing homesickness among campers, and ensuring safety during activities. Effectively handling these situations requires strong communication skills, patience, and adaptability. Counselors can foster a positive environment by setting clear expectations, staying attentive to campers' needs, and working closely with co-counselors and supervisors to resolve issues quickly. Ongoing training and teamwork are key to successfully overcoming these challenges and ensuring a rewarding experience for both campers and staff.

What is a camp counselor?

Camp counselors are individuals responsible for supervising and guiding campers during their stay at a camp. They plan and lead activities, ensure the safety and well-being of campers, and serve as role models and mentors. Camp counselors work in a variety of settings, including day camps, overnight camps, and specialty camps focused on sports, arts, or outdoor education. Their main goal is to create a fun, safe, and inclusive environment that helps campers build confidence, skills, and friendships.
What are the most commonly searched types of Camp Counselor jobs in Park Ridge, IL? The most popular types of Camp Counselor jobs in Park Ridge, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Camp Counselor jobs in Park Ridge, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Camp Counselor jobs in Park Ridge, IL are:
What cities near Park Ridge, IL are hiring for Camp Counselor jobs? Cities near Park Ridge, IL with the most Camp Counselor job openings:
Infographic showing various Camp Counselor job openings in Park Ridge, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,660 per year, or $14.7 per hour.

$15/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

The Camp Counselor leads and acts as a model to a group of campers in a variety of activities, including sports, competitive and non-competitive games, songs, crafts, swimming, and field trips. Counselors are responsible for enforcing Park District rules and ensuring the safety of campers, staff, and the public. Counselors are expected to lead any of the camp activities named during a typical camp day. Depending on qualifications and experience counselors may be in one of these camps: Adventure Camp, Sports Camp, Teen Camp, Sunshine Camp, or Tot Camp

DUTIES AND ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
  • Greet parents and youth as they arrive and assist in making sure that campers are properly signed in and out
  • Assist in monitoring and maintaining the safety of all campers in daily routines, field trips, or during daily water park visits
  • Communicate with parents/guardians about daily activities and camper progress
  • Play an active role in leading the daily schedule and activities to keep campers excited, safe, and engaged
  • Initiate spontaneous activities to accommodate agenda conflicts/changes/weather
  • Assist Lead Counselor in addressing camper behavior/disciplinary issues
  • Assist in providing excellent customer service and maintaining a positive public image by addressing questions and concerns from staff, patrons, participants, and parents
  • Assist in keeping program supplies, equipment, and facility space clean, safe, and organized
  • Assist with the completion of all paperwork as required
  • Attend all staff meetings and training programs as required
  • Other duties as assigned by supervisor
  • Minimum of 16 years of age
  • Experience working with children ages K-8th grade
  • Good skills in planning activities for children
  • Ability to communicate and interact effectively with children, parents, and staff
  • Ability to solve problems as they arise
  • Must be dependable, energetic, and have a positive attitude
  • Ability to enforce Park District rules and safety practices
  • Certified in CPR/AED and First Aid is required.

JOB STATUS Part time DEPARTMENT Recreation FSLA STATUS Non-Exempt

SALARY $15.00per hour

HOURS 8:00am-3:00pm Monday - Friday