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Summer Program Counselor Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCATE PROGRAM

$54K - $72K/yr

Competitive salaries and benefits including a 401(k), Summer Hours Off (Half-day Fridays and Work ... Counselor, Therapist, LCSW, MSW, LMSW, Human services Who we are National Youth Advocate Program ...

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Summer Program Counselor information

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How much do summer program counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer program counselor in Madison, WI is $16.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $17.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get a job as a summer program counselor?

To become a summer program counselor, applicants typically need to be at least 16 years old, have strong communication and leadership skills, and often complete background checks and training. Relevant experience with children or in educational settings can improve chances, and many programs require CPR or first aid certification. Applying early and demonstrating enthusiasm for working with youth are also important steps.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a summer program counselor?

To thrive as a Summer Program Counselor, you need experience working with children, a basic understanding of youth development, and often a high school diploma or higher. Familiarity with scheduling software, first aid certification, and recreational equipment is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help counselors effectively engage participants and handle challenges. These skills and qualities are crucial for creating a safe, positive, and enriching environment where children can learn and grow.

What is a summer program counselor?

Summer program counselors are individuals who supervise, mentor, and guide children or teenagers during summer camps or educational programs. Their responsibilities include planning and leading activities, ensuring the safety and well-being of participants, and fostering a positive and inclusive environment. They often serve as role models and help campers develop social, teamwork, and life skills throughout the program.

What are common challenges faced by summer program counselors, and how can they be managed?

Summer Program Counselors often face challenges such as maintaining group engagement, managing diverse personalities, and balancing safety with fun activities. To effectively manage these, counselors should establish clear expectations, use creative problem-solving, and communicate openly with both participants and fellow staff. Relying on structured schedules and collaborating with co-counselors also helps ensure a positive, well-organized environment where everyone feels included and supported.

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Summer Program Counselor jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Summer Program Counselor job openings:

Summer Program Counselor jobs near you

Summer Adventure Camp Sr. Leader

Kids Junction

Madison, WI • On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

JUMP IN-ADVENTURE BEGINS THIS SUMMER! Kids Junction is seeking an adventure loving leader to join our Summer Adventure Camp (SAC) Sr. team. This year-round position will work closely with our SAC Sr Coordinator to plan and implement our annual SAC Sr camp. While keeping the values and mission of Kids Junction this position is responsible for creating a safe, fun, and stimulating environment for all campers and staff. This position will be expected to interact professionally with children, families, and staff. During the camp off season, time would be dedicated to assisting in planning the camp along with being a teacher for our After School Adventure Club. There are also opportunities to lead other education programs for our preschool programming. Learn more about Kids Junction and our summer camps here: https://madisonsummercamp.com/
We're paying $21.00-$25.00 per hour with a $2,000.00 sign on bonus!
Camp Description: SAC Sr. is a middle school day camp for kids entering 5th - 8th grade that runs daily Monday-Friday 7:00 AM-6:00 PM for about twelve weeks from June-August. This traveling camp has an exciting format geared for young teens and preteens who may not have the opportunity to experience an over-night camp. It is a great opportunity for kids to make new friendships, build self-esteem, and develop character and leadership qualities, all while having lots of fun along the way. SAC Sr. doesn't like to hold still or stay in one place! Every day, we meet at our big tent outside the Princeton Club West, load our bus, and head out on an adventure! Our program rotates through Camp Carlson and state parks each week for staff-led programming, such as outdoor education, crafts, sports, games, and more! Twice a week we leave the area to explore other locations for more challenging or thrilling field trips.
What you'll be doing (besides having a blast with the campers):
  • Assisting the SAC Sr. Coordinator in designing, implementing, and evaluating the camp so it meets the needs and interest of the target population (including campers, parents and staff)
  • Seeking and analyzing input from campers, parents, and staff regarding all elements of the camp including but not limited to the quality, safety, enjoyment, things that did and did not work
  • Remaining current with the ever-changing developmental, social, and emotion needs of the youth
  • Assisting in the design of and implementation of the delivery of planned activities appropriate to the needs of the campers
  • Assisting in the design of and implementation of crisis and risk management procedures
  • Ensuring the daily operations of the summer camp including run smoothly; this includes but is not limited to food service, program business, camper and staff supervision, safety and health concerns
  • Overseeing the safety of the campers including knowing their whereabouts and having the proper paperwork for tracking kids
  • Working collaboratively with Kids Junction administration and staff to ensure the enhancement of the camp operation
  • Assisting in the financial planning aspects of the camp including working within a budget and still making the camp appealing to the target population while continuing to focus on long term goals
  • Developing and maintaining relationships with the property owners of space we lease/rent
  • Assisting in the design and implementation of a marketing plan to increase camper attendance and retain campers from the previous years
  • Assisting in the management of seasonal staff assigned to SAC Sr
  • Assisting with the school age program, including being an After School Teacher during the school year
  • Other tasks and projects as assigned by an Administrator or Director

We're looking for candidates who:
  • Hold a High School diploma, or equivalent
  • Have a minimum of 3 years' experience working in a camp setting with 2+ years of leadership
  • Have the ability to foster teamwork and thrive in a collaborative environment
  • Are proficient in Microsoft Office applications and have a willingness to learn other applications
  • Are excellent at written and verbal communication
  • Show demonstrated skills in remaining composed and effective in challenging situations, while handling multiple tasks simultaneously
  • Have a high level of attention to detail and strong customer service skills

Preferred skills and competencies:
  • Associates degree or higher in early childhood, education, or recreation management
  • Experience providing administrative and/or logistical support in a camp, education, or preschool setting
  • 3-5 years of management experience

Working conditions:
  • Must have, or obtain within 30 days of receiving position a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) for driving campers in a company bus
  • Ability to lift 15 pounds or more
  • Ability to stand for 8-10 hours per day
  • Ability to work outside 8-10 hours per day in the summer months
  • Exposure to extreme outdoor temperatures & weather

Benefits and Perks:
  • Monday-Friday schedule; NO NIGHTS OR WEEKENDS!
  • SIGN ON BONUS: $1,000.00 at point of hire, $1,000.00 after first 60 days
  • HMO and HSA Medical Plans
  • Dental and Vision Plans
  • HSA Matching
  • Direct Primary Care Plan
  • 401K Plan & Employer Matching
  • Paid Time off with Rollover
  • 10 Paid Holidays
  • Discounted Dependent Tuition
  • Cell Phone Program
  • Discounted Princeton Club Membership
  • Employee Milestone Recognition Program
  • Free Off-Street Parking
  • Bus Line & Bike Trail Access

Applicants must be age 18+ to apply
Kids Junction is an EOE
Salary Description
$21.00-$25.00 per hour

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