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Summer Counselor Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

All JobsSummer Counselor JobsSummer Counselor Jobs in Decatur, AL

Summer Counselor information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$7

$14

$20

How much do summer counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer 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 is a summer counselor?

Summer counselors are individuals who supervise, guide, and mentor children or teenagers at summer camps or recreational programs. Their responsibilities typically include organizing activities, ensuring the safety of campers, providing emotional support, and fostering a positive camp environment. Summer counselors often serve as role models, helping children build social skills, confidence, and independence throughout the summer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a summer counselor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Summer Counselor, you generally need experience working with children or youth, basic first aid/CPR certification, and a high school diploma or higher. Familiarity with camp management software and activity planning tools is often beneficial. Strong leadership, patience, and effective communication skills help counselors build trust and create a positive camp environment. These competencies are crucial to ensure camper safety, foster engagement, and facilitate memorable camp experiences.

What are some common challenges summer counselors face when working with campers, and how can they effectively address them?

Summer Counselors often encounter challenges such as managing group dynamics, addressing homesickness, and handling behavioral issues among campers. Effectively addressing these challenges requires strong communication, patience, and adaptability. Counselors can build trust by establishing clear expectations, fostering an inclusive environment, and engaging campers in activities that promote teamwork. Collaboration with co-counselors and camp leadership is also key to finding solutions and ensuring all campers have a positive experience.

What is the difference between Summer Counselor vs Camp Counselor?

AspectSummer CounselorCamp Counselor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require CPR/First Aid certificationHigh school diploma; CPR/First Aid often preferred
Work EnvironmentSummer camps, outdoor settings, recreational facilitiesSummer camps, outdoor activities, recreational centers
Employer & IndustrySummer camp organizations, youth programsSummer camps, youth recreation programs
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both Summer Counselors and Camp Counselors work in summer camp environments, supervising children and organizing activities. The terms are often used interchangeably, but 'Summer Counselor' may imply a broader role, while 'Camp Counselor' specifically refers to camp settings. Both roles typically require similar certifications and work in outdoor, recreational environments during summer months.

What are the most commonly searched types of Counselor jobs in Decatur, AL?

The most popular types of Counselor jobs in Decatur, AL are:

What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Summer Counselor jobs?

Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Summer Counselor job openings:

Summer Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Summer Counselor job openings in Decatur, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 34% Full Time, 33% Temporary, and 33% Summer. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $30,974 per year, or $14.9 per hour.

NACEE TRiO Programs Talent Search Education Specialist (Jackson County)

Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University

Normal, AL • On-site

$39K - $43K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Salary: $39,500.00 - $43,000.00 Annually
Location : Normal
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 202300773
Department: NACEE
Opening Date: 03/27/2026
Description
Summary:
NACEE TRiO Programs Upward Bound Education Specialist (Jackson County) works directly with students in assessing their academic skills and designing individualized academic plans to prepare the students for academic success in college.
Education Specialist is responsible for delivering academic, career, and STEM curriculum and services to low-income, first-generation students in grades 6-12. They also help plan and deliver leadership, career, college preparatory and cultural enrichment events, and activities that help to prepare participants to succeed in college.
Examples of Duties
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Coordinate the recruitment and selection of eligible student participants under the program admissions process; assure that all grant guidelines regarding eligibility are met.
  • Facilitate completion of applications to postsecondary institutions, financial aid, and scholarships.
  • Document and record students need for services, academic support, and verification of income, and first-generation status.
  • In accordance with federal grant guidelines, the preferred candidate's parents would not have a college degree and/or are from a low socio-economic background.
  • Maintain timely and accurate student records including contact logs, case notes, and files.

Typical Qualifications
Minimum Position Requirements (including certifications, licenses, etc.):
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
  • Strong communication, counseling, and organizational skills.
  • Knowledge of college admissions and financial literacy.

Supplemental Information
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Familiarity with current knowledge of TRiO programs and working with low-income, first-generation students is preferred.
  • Design intervention strategies to increase academic performance (quarterly progress reports, academic skills development, etc.).
  • Coordinate program events and activities (workshops, campus visits, tutoring, and a 6-week summer camp). Assist with student interviews and prospective students and give advice regarding application process, program requirements, course requirements, etc.
  • Track student attendance, behavior, grades, test scores, and credits earned; implement improvement strategies and action plans.
  • Maintain confidentiality regarding student and project files.
  • Assess family needs; make appropriate referrals and linkages for family support and prevention services.
  • Assist in the design and implement (with the director) of after-school and summer programming.

We offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, short and long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
To learn more details, visit our benefits page at
01
Do you have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have strong communication, counseling, and organizational skill?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you have strong communication, counseling, and organizational skill?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

Apply