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Summer Counselor Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

Summer Counselor information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$6

$14

$20

How much do summer counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer counselor in Springfield, MO is $14.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.26 and $15.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 is the highest paid counselling job?

The highest paid counseling jobs are typically in specialized fields such as clinical psychologists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, or licensed marriage and family therapists, often earning six-figure salaries. Executive or private practice counselors with advanced degrees and extensive experience can also command higher compensation. Salaries vary based on location, credentials, and work setting, with some roles requiring advanced certifications and licensure.

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.

Is 25 too old to be a camp counselor?

There is no age limit for becoming a summer camp counselor, and many camps value maturity, leadership skills, and experience over age. Candidates aged 25 and older are often welcomed, especially if they demonstrate relevant skills such as communication, teamwork, and responsibility. Age should not be a barrier if you meet the camp's requirements and can fulfill the role's responsibilities.

What are summer counselors?

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.

How to become a counselor at a summer camp?

To become a summer camp counselor, applicants typically need to be at least 16 or 18 years old, depending on the camp's requirements. Relevant skills include leadership, communication, and first aid certification, and some camps may require background checks and previous experience working with children. Applying through the camp's official website or recruitment events is common.

Which summer job pays the most?

Summer counselor positions typically offer moderate pay, but jobs such as lifeguards, camp directors, or specialized outdoor instructors often pay higher wages. These roles may require certifications like CPR or first aid and involve leadership or technical skills, which can lead to higher summer earnings.

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 the most commonly searched types of Counselor jobs in Springfield, MO? The most popular types of Counselor jobs in Springfield, MO are:
What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Summer Counselor jobs? Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Summer Counselor job openings:
Infographic showing various Summer Counselor job openings in Springfield, MO as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,055 per year, or $14.4 per hour.

Adjunct/Per Course Faculty, Counseling (Summer/Fall 2026)

Missouri State University

Springfield, MO • On-site

Full-time, Temporary

Re-posted 29 days ago


Missouri State University rating

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Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

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Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Position Title
Adjunct/Per Course Faculty, Counseling (Summer/Fall 2026)
Work Location
Springfield Campus
Department
School of Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences
Sponsorship Information
Applicants must be currently authorized to work for ANY employer in the United States on a full-time basis. This position is not eligible for work visa sponsorship.
Term
Summer/Fall Semester (per course faculty only)
Begin Date -Spring Term
Begin Date - Summer Term
05/26/2026
Begin Date - Fall Term
08/10/2026
Maximum credit hours Per Course faculty can teach
12 Credit Hours per 12 Month Period - Springfield Campus
Description of Primary Duties
Teach Counseling courses, prepare syllabi in required format, maintain office hours, and submit grades.
Minimum Acceptable Qualifications
Per Course Faculty should possess a master's degree or the equivalent professional experience in a field determined acceptable by the Dean.
Additional Qualifications
Special Instructions to Applicants
Missouri State University accepts applications for Adjunct Faculty to establish a pool of available candidates. By submitting an application for this posting you are applying to be a part of Missouri State University's Adjunct Faculty pool for a potential course that may be offered in the applicable semester. There may not be a current opening. Applications and transcripts are evaluated prior to the selection of interviewees. To receive full consideration, include all documents requested by the department. Please attach an updated, detailed Curriculum Vitae. Unofficial transcripts can be attached as an optional document to the online application. Official transcripts may be required at time of hire to comply with reporting requirements for Missouri Law.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Non-Discrimination Statement
Missouri State University is a community of people with respect for diversity. The University emphasizes the dignity and equality common to all persons and adheres to a strict non-discrimination policy regarding the treatment of individual faculty, staff, and students. In accord with federal law and applicable Missouri statutes, the University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin (including ancestry, or any other subcategory of national origin recognized by applicable law), religion, sex (including marital status, family status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other subcategory of sex recognized by applicable law), age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable law in employment or in any program or activity offered or sponsored by the University. Sex discrimination encompasses sexual harassment, which includes sexual violence, and is strictly prohibited by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972.
This policy shall not be interpreted in a manner as to violate the legal rights of religious organizations or of military organizations associated with the Armed Forces of the United States of America.
The University maintains a grievance procedure incorporating due process available to any person who believes he or she has been discriminated against. Missouri State University is an Equal Opportunity employer. Inquiries concerning the complaint/grievance procedure related to discrimination on the basis of a protected class, including sexual harassment and sexual assault, or compliance with federal and state laws and guidelines, should be addressed to the Director, Office for Institutional Compliance, Carrington Hall 205, 901 S. National Ave., Springfield, Missouri 65897, Compliance@MissouriState.edu, 417-836-4252
Background Check Statement
Employment will require a criminal background check at University expense.
Posting Detail
Open Date
03/04/2026
Close Date
08/24/2026
Posting Number
20260015PCF
Quicklink for Posting
https://jobs.missouristate.edu/postings/85254

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