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Summer Camp Counselor Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

Genesis Health Clubs

Camp Counselor

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

Being a Camp Counselor is tough, incredibly fulfilling and worthwhile work. Genesis Health Clubs is ... Available to work days full time Monday-Friday and able to commit to entire summer season

University of New Mexico

RADcamp Counsellor

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$13.50 - $18.50/hr

RADcamp (Recreational Activities Day Camp) is a summer program that runs in Johnson Center for ... Counsellor is a great addition to your resume. If you have prior child care experience and are ...

All JobsSummer Camp Counselor JobsSummer Camp Counselor Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Summer Camp Counselor information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$6

$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 Rio Rancho, NM is $14.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.16 and $15.82 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.
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Summer Camp Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Summer Camp Counselor job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 54% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 22% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,800 per year, or $14.3 per hour.

Summer Camp Counselor and Educator - Camp Shaver YMCA

YMCA of Central NM

Jemez Springs, NM

$400/wk

Part-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

YMCA Camp Shaver serves New Mexico as an amazing Traditional overnight camp experience. Located in the Jemez Mountains we have been around since 1945 making lasting memories for the lives of our campers and staff. We care about helping people reconnect with the natural world, and hope that you will join us for a summer of lasting friendship and growth.

Under the direction of the Director of Camping Services and in accordance with the purpose, policy and principles of the YMCA of Central New Mexico, this position supports the work of the YMCA, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Camp Counselors maintain a supportive, positive atmosphere that welcomes and respects all individuals, promotes the potential of all youth, and provides a quality experience to both youth and their families. This role provides direct supervision and live a small group of young people in a residential camp setting. Counselors lead campers through daily activities with a primary focus on safety. Work with the larger team to accomplish the goals of Camp Shaver: accomplishment, belonging and character development.

Schedule is Monday-Friday, and weekends as assigned for the season.  

This job announcement is not intended to be inclusive of all functions, responsibilities and qualifications associated with the position, however, representative of the essential job functions and typical criteria considered necessary to successfully perform the position.


  • Maintains constant surveillance of campers and always ensures their safety.
  • Knows and reviews all emergency procedures and responds appropriately to emergency situations. Completes related reports as required.
  • Plans and implements program activities that are culturally relevant, developmentally appropriate and consistent with the YMCA core values.
  • Maintains positive relationships with members, participants, families and other staff.
  • Able to collaborate and communicate well with a team.
  • Must be a positive role model for campers and staff.
  • Possess good judgment and decision-making skills.
  • Desire to mentor youth and lead with positive reinforcement.
  • Attends and participates in all staff meetings and trainings.
  • Follows YMCA policies and procedures, including those related to medical and disciplinary situations, child abuse prevention and emergencies.

  • Minimum age requirement of 18.
  • CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications required; will be provided training if candidate does not have current certification.
  • Wilderness First Aid Certification preferred.
  • Previous experience working with children and staff in a camp setting preferred.
  • Previous experience working with diverse populations preferred.

  • Employee discount

USD $400.00 - USD $400.00 /Wk.

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