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Summer Camp Counselor Jobs in Riverside, IL (NOW HIRING)

Illinois School District U-46

Summer Camp Coach

Elgin, IL · On-site

$13.75 - $18/hr

Summer Camp Coach Bargaining Unit: NON-UNION Department/Location: High School Calendar Days: 45 Reports To: Athletic Director JD Revision Date: 05/28/2024 Supervises: NONE Function / Position Summary ...

Illinois School District U-46

Summer Camp Coach

Elgin, IL · On-site

$13.75 - $18/hr

Summer Camp Coach Bargaining Unit: NON-UNION Department/Location: High School Calendar Days: 45 Reports To: Athletic Director JD Revision Date: 05/28/2024 Supervises: NONE Function / Position Summary ...

Fit City Kids

School Year Camp Coach

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.20/hr

Job duties of a coach include engaging in summer camp games like sports fitness and stem/art ... Proven experience as Camp Counselor or similar role working with children * Familiarity with sports ...

Fit City Kids

School Year Camp Coach

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.20/hr

Job duties of a coach include engaging in summer camp games like sports fitness and stem/art ... Proven experience as Camp Counselor or similar role working with children * Familiarity with sports ...

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Summer Camp Counselor information

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How much do summer camp counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer camp counselor in Riverside, IL is $15.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $17.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a summer camp counselor?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Are summer camp counselors paid?

Yes, summer camp counselors are typically paid for their work, with wages varying based on location, experience, and the camp's budget. Many camps also offer additional benefits such as room and board or training opportunities. Compensation is usually provided on a weekly or seasonal basis, and some positions may require certifications like CPR or first aid.

Can I be a summer camp counselor with no experience?

Summer camp counselor positions often do not require prior experience, as training is typically provided on-site. Employers look for qualities such as enthusiasm, responsibility, and good communication skills, and some certifications like CPR or first aid can be helpful. Many camps hire first-time applicants and provide the necessary training to prepare them for the role.
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Summer Camp Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Summer Camp Counselor job openings in Riverside, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 35% Full Time, 56% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,220 per year, or $16 per hour.

Summer Day Camp Counselor

YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

$17.90/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

South Side YMCA is hiring Summer Day Camp Counselors for Summer 2026!
At the Y, we create an exciting, safe camp environment for kids and staff to have an unforgettable summer. While campers are taking part in in unique experiences and adventures, our Summer Day Camp Counselors are developing leadership skills and confidence while making lasting friendships and memories.
Pay starts at $17.90 per hour, Monday-Friday schedule
The Summer Day Camp Counselor serves as a professional role model for our campers by leading through example and guiding campers through recreational activities that teach life skills, encourage healthy and safe behaviors and create a positive camper experience. The Summer Camp Counselor ensures that each youth has adequate supervision including ensuring that no youth is unsupervised at any time.
Our staff is the Y's greatest asset. Our teams provide valuable skills, knowledge, and passion that is essential to the contribution and positive impact in our communities, which is why we offer Y employees numerous perks and benefits, including:
  • Competitive salaries reflecting your skills and experience.
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for eligible employees, plus wellness programs, mental health resources, and a family gym membership.
  • Generous PTO and paid holidays, with flexible work hours for work-life balance.
  • 403(b) plan with company contributions for eligible employees after 2 years of service.
  • Continuous learning opportunities through workshops and training programs.
  • Supportive work environment valuing diversity, equity, and inclusion.
  • Discounts on programs, employee assistance programs, and company-sponsored events.

As a Summer Day Camp Counselor, you are responsible to:
  • Promote the YMCA, provide excellent customer service and create an outstanding camper experience for children, parents and families.
  • Lead recreational activities with campers, including but not limited to arts and crafts, sports, social recreation, nature hikes, archery, and other games and hobbies
  • Instruct campers using various teaching methods and modifies activities as needed to ensure that campers of all ages and experience levels are engaged
  • Teach socially acceptable behaviors to campers by serving as a role model and by using age-appropriate positive reinforcement and behavior management strategies
  • Communicate consistently with supervisors, team leaders, unit leaders and other team members to ensure everyone is kept abreast of camp activities and schedule
  • Supports camp activities as assigned by supervisor, including any specialty camp activities
  • Ensures the physical and emotional health and safety of campers by being safety conscious, following all established YMCA standards and critically evaluating situations for potential risks
  • Ensures compliance with established rules and regulations to ensure safety
  • Monitors campers and counselors and provides corrective coaching and intervention as necessary
  • Set-up facilities and/or equipment for activities and stores equipment appropriately after use and work to keep camp facilities clean at all times

What do you need to be a Summer Day Camp Counselor?
  • A commitment to and a passion for working with diverse youth
  • Enjoy being outdoors, are creative and not afraid to work and play hard
  • Your experience in camping, childcare, education, recreation, sports or related is a plus but not required
  • You will be 18 years of age or older by the start of camp
  • Excellent verbal communication skills, including the ability to clearly and concisely present ideas and concepts and tailor communication to multiple audiences
  • Passion for working with diverse youth and ability to provide a high-quality of instruction using age-appropriate practices
  • Proven ability to establish constructive relationships and interact as a positive role model
  • Continuous learner who leverages opportunities for learning and applies new knowledge and skills
  • Meets physical qualifications required as outlined in job description
  • The YMCA will provide reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities

Child Abuse Prevention - Supports the YMCA's commitment to child abuse prevention by:
  • Reporting any items that may provide a health or safety hazard to staff, members or guests to your supervisor
  • Following all policies and procedures related to keeping children safe in our facilities and programs, including those related to the monitoring and supervision of children
  • Reporting any suspicious behavior and violation of policy and procedures to your supervisor
  • Completing all child abuse prevention training as required

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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