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Camp Leader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Position Available: Full-time Summer Camp Leader at our Allen School in South San Jose; Monday- Friday from 9am-6pm *including opportunities to continue working in our preschool and/or infant center ...

Summer Camp Counselor

Sarasota, FL ยท On-site

$13.50 - $17.75/hr

Camp Leader Location :Incarnation Catholic School | Sarasota, FL Classification: Temporary - Hourly Overview: Incarnation Catholic School is seeking an energetic, cheerful individual to assist with ...

Summer Music Camp Leader

Carmel, IN ยท On-site

$14 - $18.25/hr

Summer Music Camp Leaders teach groups of young musicians the fundamentals of music, as well as how to collaborate, listen, and work together. Summer camp options include opportunities for students ...

Summer Music Camp Leader

Carmel, IN

$14 - $18.25/hr

Summer Music Camp Leaders teach groups of young musicians the fundamentals of music, as well as how to collaborate, listen, and work together. Summer camp options include opportunities for students ...

Seasonal Day Camp Leader

Denver, CO ยท On-site

$18.95 - $24.63/hr

... day camp program. Takes responsibility for general supervision, including safety and location, of participants at all times. Duties and Responsibilities Leads activities (games, sports, arts and ...

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Camp Leader information

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$10

$25

$72

How much do camp leader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for camp leader in the United States is $25.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Camp Leader vs Camp Counselor?

AspectCamp Leader
ResponsibilitiesSupervises campers, manages activities, ensures safety, and supports staff
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certifications in first aid or CPR
Work EnvironmentOutdoor camp settings, often during summer months
Employer & Industry UsageSummer camps, youth programs, recreational organizations

While both Camp Leaders and Camp Counselors work in outdoor camp environments and may share similar certifications, Camp Leaders typically have additional responsibilities such as supervising staff and managing camp operations. Camp Counselors focus more on direct interaction with campers and assisting with activities. The roles often overlap, but Camp Leaders usually hold leadership positions with broader oversight.

What are Camp Leaders?

Camp Leaders are individuals responsible for organizing, supervising, and guiding activities at camps, such as summer camps or day camps. They ensure the safety, well-being, and engagement of campers, often acting as role models and mentors. Camp Leaders plan daily schedules, lead recreational and educational activities, and manage any issues or emergencies that arise. They play a key role in creating a fun, inclusive, and supportive camp environment.

What are some common challenges faced by Camp Leaders, and how can they be successfully managed?

Camp Leaders often encounter challenges such as managing diverse groups of campers, addressing homesickness or behavioral issues, and ensuring the safety and engagement of all participants. Successful Camp Leaders handle these challenges by maintaining clear communication, establishing structured routines, and fostering a supportive environment. Teamwork with fellow staff members and adaptability are key, as is the ability to quickly assess situations and make sound decisions. Training and regular feedback from supervisors also help Camp Leaders develop effective strategies for overcoming these obstacles.

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

To thrive as a Camp Leader, you need experience in youth supervision, activity planning, and often certifications in first aid and CPR. Familiarity with incident reporting systems, communication tools, and outdoor recreational equipment is typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills help Camp Leaders build trust with campers and foster a positive group environment. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring camper safety, program success, and memorable camp experiences.
More about Camp Leader jobs
What cities are hiring for Camp Leader jobs? Cities with the most Camp Leader job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Camp Leader jobs? The most popular types of Camp Leader jobs are:
What states have the most Camp Leader jobs? States with the most job openings for Camp Leader jobs include:
Infographic showing various Camp Leader job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 11% Full Time, 68% Part Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,524 per year, or $25.7 per hour.
Summer Camp Leader 2026

Summer Camp Leader 2026

YMCA of San Francisco

San Rafael, CA โ€ข On-site

$19.50 - $24/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

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:
  • Marin: June 15 to August 14, 2026

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.