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Summer Camp Counselor Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

City of Madison, AL

Seasonal Camp Counselor

Madison, AL · On-site

$13.13 - $14.49/hr

... camp counselors starting at $13.13 per hour and returning counselors earning up to $14.49 per hour ... Position provides responsibilities needed to supervise and provide a quality summer program for ...

City of Madison, Alabama

Seasonal Camp Counselor

Madison, AL · On-site

$13.13 - $14.49/hr

... camp counselors starting at $13.13 per hour and returning counselors earning up to $14.49 per hour ... Position provides responsibilities needed to supervise and provide a quality summer program for ...

All JobsSummer Camp Counselor JobsSummer Camp Counselor Jobs in Decatur, AL

Summer Camp Counselor information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$7

$14

$20

How much do summer camp counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer camp counselor in Decatur, AL is $14.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.60 and $16.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Summer Camp Counselors, and how can they be overcome?

Summer Camp Counselors often face challenges such as managing groups of energetic children, addressing homesickness, and resolving conflicts between campers. To overcome these, counselors use strong communication skills, maintain clear routines, and foster a positive, inclusive environment. Building rapport early and staying adaptable helps counselors respond effectively to unexpected situations, ensuring a safe and enjoyable camp experience for everyone involved.

Can you be a camp counselor if you've never been to camp?

Yes, you can be a summer camp counselor without prior camp experience. Most camps look for qualities like responsibility, communication skills, and a positive attitude, and training is often provided to new staff members. Having relevant skills such as first aid certification or experience working with children can be beneficial.

What Does a Summer Camp Counselor Do?

A summer camp counselor helps children explore age-appropriate recreation activities in a structured program. Camp hours vary since some are day camps while others are overnight camps. Campers can range in age from early elementary to high school levels, so camp activities may differ to address a variety of needs. Activities in summer camp programs can include both indoor and outdoor events, and camp counselors direct and supervise each activity. You will work directly with children, communicate with parents, help kids learn and explore, and manage attendance and safety paperwork.

Is it worth it to work at a summer camp?

Working as a summer camp counselor provides valuable experience in leadership, communication, and teamwork, often in outdoor or recreational environments. It can also offer a sense of community, skill development, and sometimes stipends or stipends plus room and board, making it a rewarding seasonal job for those interested in working with children or outdoor activities.

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

To thrive as a Summer Camp Counselor, you generally need experience working with children, basic first aid knowledge, and often at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with camp management systems, safety protocols, and certifications like CPR or lifeguarding are typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help counselors engage campers, manage group dynamics, and handle unexpected situations. These skills and qualifications ensure a safe, enjoyable, and enriching camp environment for all participants.

How do you become a summer camp counselor?

To become a summer camp counselor, applicants typically need to be at least 16 or 18 years old, depending on the camp, and often require a background check and CPR certification. Relevant skills include leadership, communication, and the ability to work with children, with many camps providing training before the season begins.

How much do camp counselors get paid?

In New York, summer camp counselors typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and the camp's budget. Salaries can also vary based on the length of the camp season and additional responsibilities.

What is the difference between Summer Camp Counselor vs Summer Camp Director?

AspectSummer Camp CounselorSummer Camp Director
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; CPR/First Aid certification often preferredCollege degree often required; leadership and management experience beneficial
Work EnvironmentOutdoor camp settings, assisting with activities and supervising childrenOffice and outdoor settings, overseeing camp operations and staff
Employer & Industry UsageSummer camps, recreational organizationsCamp organizations, recreational companies, educational institutions
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

While both roles are integral to summer camp programs, Summer Camp Counselors focus on supervising children and facilitating activities, often with minimal management responsibilities. Summer Camp Directors oversee the entire camp operation, including staff management, budgeting, and program planning. The roles differ mainly in scope, responsibilities, and required experience, but both are essential for a successful camp experience.

What are summer camp counselors?

Summer camp counselors are individuals responsible for supervising, guiding, and ensuring the safety and well-being of campers during summer camp programs. They lead activities, facilitate games, and foster a positive, inclusive environment for children and teens. Counselors also serve as role models, help resolve conflicts, and often assist with daily routines such as meals and cabin assignments. Their goal is to create a fun, memorable, and enriching camp experience for all participants.
More about Summer Camp Counselor jobs
What are popular job titles related to Summer Camp Counselor jobs in Decatur, AL? For Summer Camp Counselor jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Summer Camp Counselor jobs in Decatur, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Summer Camp Counselor jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Summer Camp Counselor jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Summer Camp Counselor job openings:
Summer Camp Counselor jobs near you

Seasonal Camp Counselor

City of Madison, AL

Madison, AL • On-site

$13.13 - $14.49/hr

Temporary

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Salary: $13.13 - $14.49 Hourly
Location : Dublin Park, 8324 Madison Pike, Madison, AL
Job Type: Seasonal Part-Time
Job Number: 26-00029
Department: Recreation
Opening Date: 02/23/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
General Position Summary
The pay range for this position is $13.13 to $14.49 per hour, with new camp counselors starting at $13.13 per hour and returning counselors earning up to $14.49 per hour depending on years of service. Starting hourly rate is non-negotiable.
Position's working hours are up to 29 hours per week, based on the department's needs.
This position may remain open until filled or until receipt of sufficient number of applications.
Position provides responsibilities needed to supervise and provide a quality summer program for school
age children in an atmosphere to promote physical wellness and good sportsmanship through team and
individual activities.
Examples of Responsibilities
Essential Functions/ Maior Responsibilities:
• Checks/secures all building doors/windows, lights are turned on/off when needed in the different
areas including gymnasiums, fields, courts, etc.
• Reports any damage to facilities, fields or grounds to the appropriate supervisor for repair.
• Observes activities and looks for any situation that does not appear normal, investigate source of
suspected activities to determine trespassing.
• Supervises the various courts/fields/camp activities/summer camp participants to ensure that the
patrons are acting appropriately and not disturbing the other patrons.
• Keeps the walking track/courts/fields/playgrounds/facilities clean, including trash pickup,
sweeping/mopping areas if needed.
• Sets up equipment needed for court/field play/camp activities, special events or meetings.
• Supervises activity at playgrounds/fields/courts/camps to ensure the safety of the participants.
• Assists with other special projects within the Recreation Department.
• Serves as a positive role model for the camper and/or customers.
• Communicates and cooperates with all patrons (campers, parents/guardians, coworkers and
administration).
Camp Program\Counselor Responsibilities:
• Assists with registrations to include taking fees, writing receipts, filing, etc.
• Assists in managing all camp operations, special events, field trips and other activities.
• Assists in planning, promoting, organizing and developing a fun and exciting curriculum/activities
for the different divisions of the camp program.
• Assists program assistant/director in daily operations of the camp program, such as distributing
arts/craft supplies, snacks, sporting equipment, and other necessities needed for camp operation.
• Supervises/instructs campers from ages 5 - 12 in daily activities such as arts/crafts, games,
sporting activities, swimming, field trips and special events within the camp.
• Follows and enforces written instructions for the camp programs.
• Opens with program assistant or stay later as needed. Some staff members will be required to stay
until the last camper is picked up and all areas are cleaned.
• Assists in the daily cleaning of all areas dealing with the camp program.
• Swims during swimming activities as needed.
• Presents documentation on any and all behavioral issues.
• Keeps his/her team on schedule throughout the day.
• Maintains awareness of medical/behavior issues of his/her team/campers.
• Attends daily/weekly staff meetings as needed to ensure communication is open and understood.
Job Conditions:
• Dependability and consistent attendance is required due to program needs.
• Normal working conditions when working inside facilities.
• Typical Camp Counselor Hours: 6:45 am - 5:45 pm, Monday - Friday and additional hours on
weekends and evenings as needed.
• Work in an environment where there may be dust, noise, dirt, chemicals, temperature :fluctuations,
etc.
Minimal Qualifications
Education and/or Experience:
• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Strong work history of dependability and performance.
• Experience working with general public and children highly preferred.
• Experience working in recreational field/education field preferred but not required.
Additional Requirements:
• Must be 16 years of age or older to serve as counselor or athletics events coordinator.
• Must obtain CPR/First Aid certification before working in camp or other programs.
• Strong background record required due to accessibility to employee and city property and children
using city parks and facilities.
• Must maintain a strong driving record for city-insurance purposes and record may be periodically
checked by the city.
Job Conditions:
• Dependability and consistent attendance is required due to program needs.
• Normal working conditions when working inside facilities.
• Typical Camp Counselor Hours: 6:45 am - 5:45 pm, Monday - Friday and additional hours on
weekends and evenings as needed.
• Work in an environment where there may be dust, noise, dirt, chemicals, temperature :fluctuations,
etc.
Physical Capabilities:
• This position's physical requirements involve heavy work exerting up to 100 pounds of force
occasionally, and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly
to move objects.
• Ability to be mobile in order to inspect playground equipment, setting up of needed equipment for
special events, cleaning of required areas, etc.
• Ability to see well enough to observe surroundings (corrective lens acceptable).
• Ability to communicate verbally and orally with employees, supervisors and public and to be heard
from a distance.
• Ability to work around chemicals for cleaning purposes.
• Ability to sit/stand for extended periods of time.
• Ability to hear well enough to understand normal conversations, use telephone and to hear persons
from a distance (hearing aid acceptable).
• Must be able to drive.
• Must have full range of physical motion in order to operate various tools and equipment.
• Ability to work on a computer for extended periods of time.
• Use of hands and fingers to operate cash register, phones, write, file, operate equipment, secure
parks, courts and fields.
Temporary employees are not eligible for benefits or leave time.
01
Are you of age sixteen (16) or will you be age sixteen (16) by May 15, 2026?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have the preferred High School diploma or GED Certificate?
  • Yes
  • No

03
This position requires the ability to perform recurring walking, standing, pushing, squatting, bending, crouching, stooping, reaching, stretching, crawling, and moderate lifting. Are you able to perform these tasks with or without reasonable accommodation?
  • Yes
  • No

04
The job condition requires you to work in an environment where there may be temperature fluctuations, noise, poor ventilation, dirt, dust, etc. Are you able to work in this type of environment with or without reasonable accommodation?
  • Yes
  • No

05
The pay range for this position is $13.13 to $14.49 per hour, with new camp counselors starting at $13.13 per hour and returning counselors earning up to $14.49 per hour depending on years of service. Starting hourly rate is non-negotiable. Is this acceptable to you?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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