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Summer Camp Counselor Jobs in Rutherford, NJ (NOW HIRING)

KE Camps

Summer Day Camp Counselor

New York, NY · On-site

$15.25 - $20/hr

CPR/First Aid Certified OR willing to become certified before the summer begins Camp Counselor Responsibilities * Work with group of campers and provide a fun, safe and exciting camp experience

KE Camps

Summer Day Camp Counselor

Glen Ridge, NJ · On-site

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

CPR/First Aid Certified OR willing to become certified before the summer begins Camp Counselor Responsibilities * Work with group of campers and provide a fun, safe and exciting camp experience

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Summer Camp Counselor information

See Rutherford, NJ salary details

$7

$16

$22

How much do summer camp counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer camp counselor in Rutherford, NJ is $16.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $17.88 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 Rutherford, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 38% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 7% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,683 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Summer Camp Senior Counselor (Dodge YMCA)

The Community YMCA

Brooklyn, NY • On-site

$14.75 - $19.25/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

The YMCA ofGreater New York is here for all New Yorkers - to empower youth, improvehealth, and strengthen community. Founded in 1852, today the Y serves a diversepopulation of more than half a million New Yorkers who learn, grow, and thrivethrough programs and services at our 24 branches. Community is the cornerstoneof the Y. Together, we connect active, engaged New Yorkers to build strongercommunities.
To help fulfill our mission, we cultivate a culture of learning, leading, andcollaboration to enhance community impact. Through our talented staff and"LEAP" career framework (Leadership, Empowerment, Accountability, PersonalGrowth), we are committed to a people-first approach that fosters trust,inclusion, growth, and development for all.
The Dodge YMCA is seeking Summer Camp Senior Counselors. The Summer Camp Senior Counselor plays acritical role in the successful operation of the Summer Camp program. The SummerCamp Senior Counselor is responsible for creating a safe, positive environmentfor school-age children and for providing opportunities for learning,interaction, and academic or personal growth.
Summer Campprograms operate Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Julythrough August.
Key Responsibilities:

  • Ensure the health, safety, and well-being of participants in the program by providing appropriate supervision at all times.
  • Understand, maintain, and ensure that participants follow Risk Management and safety procedures.
  • Keep the immediate supervisor informed daily of any concerns regarding participants, staff, or the facility.
  • Plan and implement meaningful activities, lesson plans, and special events that are structured, age-appropriate, fun, exciting, challenging, and values-based in the areas of arts, STEM, character development, literacy, creative expression, community service, physical fitness, and/or nutrition.
  • Perform specific scheduled assignments, including, but not limited to, arrival and/or departure and lunch duty.
  • Prepare the learning environment, lessons, and necessary supplies for program activities. Assume responsibility for the cleanliness and organization of the camp room, program supplies, and activity space.
  • Support the planning and implementation of all camp activities, including, but not limited to, summer learning initiatives, field trips, in-camp events, and culminating performances.
  • Provide support to Activity Specialists with activity implementation.
  • Provide guidance and support to Counselors in Training (CITs), hold CITs accountable for program expectations, and complete and maintain all required CIT paperwork.
  • Work cooperatively with all program staff.
  • Promote an inclusive, welcoming, and respectful environment that embraces the diversity of all staff and participants.
  • Create and maintain a strength-based, youth-focused atmosphere that is consistent and sensitive to the needs of participants with learning, emotional, or behavioral differences.
  • Serve as a positive role model for participants.
  • Maintain accurate program documentation (attendance, sign-in/out forms, behavior reports, incident reports, and accident reports, as appropriate).
  • Understand and communicate the YMCA's core values and the goals of the Summer Camp program to staff, participants, and caregivers.
  • Develop and maintain positive relationships with parents and guardians through regular communication about their child's strengths and areas for growth. Take a leadership role in providing caregivers with regular updates (including Snapshots, behavior updates, success stories, etc.).
  • Attend all required pre-camp training sessions. Actively participate in training sessions, designated meetings, and special events.
  • Ensure that groups are in ratio. Provide support and accountability to other Summer Camp Counselors and ensure that they maintain all program standards, even in your absence.
  • Adhere to all Department of Health, YMCA of Greater New York, and funder standards, expectations, and regulations.


Desired Skills & Experience:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent required. College credits preferred.
  • Minimum of one (1) year of experience working with youth.
  • General knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, andPowerPoint.
  • Knowledgeof Access, Adobe PageMaker, and Photoshop preferred.
  • Strong interpersonal skills, leadership qualities, and comfortable working with diverse youth and adults.


How to Apply:
If you would like to be a member ofour dynamic team, please complete our online application and submit your resume and athoughtful cover letter that explains your interest in the role and ourorganization.
If you are a current YMCA employee,please submit your application through the Internal Career Site in Cornerstone.

Apply