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Summer Camp Leader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Summer Camp Leader 2026

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $24/hr

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 ...

Summer Camp Leader 2026

San Rafael, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $24/hr

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 ...

Summer Camp Counselor

Lexington, KY · On-site

$12.25 - $16/hr

Ready for the best summer ever? Unplug, engage in a variety of activities, and play outdoors while ... The counselor will work with camp leadership to provide a program that fosters children's social ...

Summer Day Camp Leaders must follow all Camp and City policies and directives. This is a seasonal position. The City of Upper Arlington is an equal opportunity employer, striving to foster an ...

Summer Music Camp Leader

Carmel, IN · On-site

$14 - $18/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 ...

The position of Summer Camp Counselor will receive direction from the Summer Camp Leads and the Arts, Education & Camp Manager. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES * Provide great customer service ...

Summer Camp Aide

Saint Louis, MO

$13.50 - $17.75/hr

The Summer Camp Aide helps create a safe, engaging, and faith‑filled environment where students ... * Assist camp leaders and coordinators with activity setup and cleanup * Help maintain clean ...

Summer Camp Aide

Saint Louis, MO

$13.50 - $17.75/hr

The Summer Camp Aide helps create a safe, engaging, and faithfilled environment where students can ... * Assist camp leaders and coordinators with activity setup and cleanup * Help maintain clean ...

Summer Camp Aide

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$13.50 - $17.75/hr

The Summer Camp Aide helps create a safe, engaging, and faith-filled environment where students can ... * Assist camp leaders and coordinators with activity setup and cleanup * Help maintain clean ...

Summer Camp Aide

Saint Louis, MO

$13.50 - $17.75/hr

The Summer Camp Aide helps create a safe, engaging, and faith‑filled environment where students ... * Assist camp leaders and coordinators with activity setup and cleanup * Help maintain clean ...

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Summer Camp Leader information

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How much do summer camp leader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer camp leader in the United States is $15.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Summer Camp Leaders face, and how can they effectively handle them?

Summer Camp Leaders often encounter challenges such as managing large groups of energetic children, balancing diverse personalities, and responding to unexpected situations like homesickness or minor conflicts. To handle these effectively, leaders rely on strong communication skills, adaptability, and proactive planning. Building rapport with campers, setting clear expectations, and maintaining a positive attitude help create a safe and fun environment. Collaboration with other staff members is also crucial, as it ensures consistent supervision and support throughout camp activities.

What are Summer Camp Leaders?

Summer Camp Leaders are responsible for supervising and engaging children or teens in a variety of activities at summer camps. They plan, organize, and lead recreational, educational, and social programs while ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants. Summer Camp Leaders also serve as role models, help resolve conflicts, and often assist with logistical duties such as setting up events and maintaining equipment. Their goal is to create a fun, safe, and memorable camp experience for everyone involved.

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

To thrive as a Summer Camp Leader, you typically need experience working with children, basic first aid certification, and knowledge of recreational activities. Familiarity with camp management software, safety protocols, and emergency response systems is often required. Strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help foster a positive environment and manage group dynamics effectively. These skills ensure the safety, engagement, and well-being of campers while maintaining smooth camp operations.

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

AspectSummer Camp LeaderSummer Camp Counselor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some camps prefer certifications in CPR/First AidHigh school diploma or equivalent; CPR/First Aid often preferred
Work EnvironmentSupervises activities, manages staff, oversees camp operationsDirectly supervises children, leads activities, ensures safety
Employer & Industry UsageCamp organizations, summer programs, youth campsSame as Summer Camp Leader, often the entry-level role

While both roles involve working with children in a camp setting, Summer Camp Leaders typically have additional responsibilities such as supervising staff and managing camp operations. Summer Camp Counselors focus more on direct supervision and activity leadership for children. The roles often overlap, but the Leader position usually requires more experience or leadership skills.

More about Summer Camp Leader jobs
What cities are hiring for Summer Camp Leader jobs? Cities with the most Summer Camp Leader job openings:
What states have the most Summer Camp Leader jobs? States with the most job openings for Summer Camp Leader jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Summer Camp Leader jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Summer Camp Leader jobs are:
Infographic showing various Summer Camp Leader job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, 37% Part Time, 6% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 87% Physical, 11% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,041 per year, or $15.9 per hour.
Summer Camp Leader 2026

$19.50 - $24/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 hours 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:June15 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.