1

Summer Playground Leader Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

Summer Park Leader DEPARTMENT: Recreation CLASSIFICATION: Part-Time, Non-Exempt A Summer Park ... 4. Supervise all playground activities. 5. Provide for proper care of equipment. 6. Maintain ...

Summer Park Leader DEPARTMENT: Recreation CLASSIFICATION: Part-Time, Non-Exempt A Summer Park ... 4. Supervise all playground activities. 5. Provide for proper care of equipment. 6. Maintain ...

Summer Playground Leader information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$11

$21

$46

How much do summer playground leader jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer playground leader in Decatur, IL is $21.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Summer Playground Leader, you need experience in supervising children, knowledge of recreational activities, and often CPR/First Aid certification. Familiarity with scheduling tools, incident report systems, and safety protocols is also valuable. Strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help you engage children, resolve conflicts, and foster a positive environment. These abilities are crucial for ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and well-organized summer program for all participants.

What are some common challenges Summer Playground Leaders face when managing large groups of children outdoors?

Summer Playground Leaders often navigate challenges such as maintaining children's attention during outdoor activities, ensuring safety in an open environment, and adapting plans to changing weather or group dynamics. Effective leaders use clear communication, structured routines, and proactive supervision to keep activities engaging and safe. Collaboration with fellow leaders and regular check-ins with supervisors help address issues quickly and foster a supportive team atmosphere.

What are Summer Playground Leaders?

Summer Playground Leaders are individuals who supervise and facilitate recreational activities for children at parks, playgrounds, or community centers during the summer months. They are responsible for ensuring a safe, fun, and engaging environment by organizing games, crafts, sports, and other activities. Playground Leaders also promote positive social interaction, help resolve conflicts, and may assist in maintaining the facility. This role is ideal for those who enjoy working with children and have strong leadership and communication skills.

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

AspectSummer Playground LeaderSummer Camp Counselor
Required CredentialsCPR/First Aid certification often requiredCPR/First Aid certification often required
Work EnvironmentOutdoor playgrounds, parks, community centersCampgrounds, activity areas, indoor/outdoor settings
Employer & IndustryMunicipal parks, community organizationsSummer camps, recreational organizations
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both roles involve supervising children and ensuring safety during outdoor activities. The main difference is that Summer Playground Leaders typically focus on outdoor playground supervision in parks or community spaces, while Summer Camp Counselors often work in organized camp settings with a broader range of activities. Both require similar certifications and are employed in recreational and community industries.

What job categories do people searching Summer Playground Leader jobs in Decatur, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Summer Playground Leader jobs in Decatur, IL are:
What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Summer Playground Leader jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Summer Playground Leader job openings:
Infographic showing various Summer Playground Leader job openings in Decatur, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 15% Temporary, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,342 per year, or $21.8 per hour.
Park Leader

Other

PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

JOB TITLE: Summer Park Leader
DEPARTMENT: Recreation
CLASSIFICATION: Part-Time, Non-Exempt
A Summer Park Leader job is demanding to the individual both physically and mentally. The experiences throughout the summer can be most rewarding to a person who enjoys working with people of all ages.
The following items are not inclusive of the total job, but are listed to give the candidate a better understanding of what will be required from them if they are selected for the job.
Each leader will: 
1. Attend Park Leader and employee orientations.
2. Attend Friday morning staff meetings as needed.
3. Work Monday through Friday, (parks closed July 4th). No vacation time off allowed, except for sickness. We adhere strictly to this policy.
4. Report directly to the summer supervisor.
5. Adhere to the proper dress code.
6. Recieve a salary dependent upon the listed schedule. Hours will be assigned upon being hired for this position. Salaries will be paid bi-weekly.
All leaders must be able to work with other leaders assigned to that paticular park. As a working unit these leaders will:
1. Follow all rules and regulations to the letter of the law. Liability is a major factor.
2. Create and promote various activities that will appeal to all clients of the park.
3. Provide arts and crafts programs.
4. Supervise all playground activities.
5. Provide for proper care of equipment.
6. Maintain grounds.
7. Support and promote city-wide activities of the Decatur Park District.
8. Enforce Park District policies.
9. Run food program.
10. Keep your park litter free as much as possible.
Qualities found to be desirable for successful Summer Park Leaders:
1. Ability to plan, organize, and supervise various recreation activities.
2. Must be willing to consider needs and feelings of others when dealing with them.
3. Personality that is outgoing and friendly.
4. Aggressive approach to completing a job.
5. Able to work effectively with both children and adults.