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Summer Program Counselor Jobs in Modesto, CA (NOW HIRING)

Summer Program Counselor information

See Modesto, CA salary details

$8

$16

$23

How much do summer program counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer program counselor in Modesto, CA is $16.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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 certifications such as CPR or first aid. Relevant experience working with children or in educational settings can improve chances, and applying early through program websites or local community centers is recommended.

What cities near Modesto, CA are hiring for Summer Program Counselor jobs?

Cities near Modesto, CA with the most Summer Program Counselor job openings:

Infographic showing various Summer Program Counselor job openings in Modesto, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,858 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Durham Ferry Summer Camp Counselor (Temporary), STEM, Educational Services

Stockton, CA • On-site

San Joaquin County Office of Education
Education • 501 - 1,000 employees

$20/hr

Part-time

This job post has expired 3 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

About the Employer
Educate, Innovate and Inspire!
San Joaquin County Office of Education located in Stockton, CA is a regional agency that provides educational leadership, resources, and customized services to assist school districts. San Joaquin County Office of Education (SJCOE) employs over 2,100 classified and certificated employees. SJCOE promotes student achievement and accountability, serves San Joaquin County's most at-risk students, and strives to create an environment in which every student, regardless of circumstances, has an opportunity for a quality education.
Job Summary
Under direction of the Science Coordinator and Program Manager of Outdoor Education, help plan and facilitate summer camp activities for the SJCOE STEM Durham Ferry camps. Help plan and lead trainings for youth leaders. Assist with evaluation of summer camp programs.
Requirements / Qualifications
  • Letter of Introduction (COVER LETTER)
  • Letter(s) of Recommendation (1 Letter of Recommendation-MUST BE SIGNED BY AUTHOR)
  • Resume

Comments and Other Information
Nondiscrimination in Employment & Sexual Harassment
The Superintendent prohibits discrimination and/or harassment of San Joaquin County Office of Education (SJCOE) employees and job applicants on the basis of actual or perceived race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, veteran status, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sex or sexual orientation at any SJCOE site and/or activity.
The Superintendent prohibits sexual harassment of San Joaquin County Office of Education (SJCOE) employees and job applicants, as well as retaliatory behavior or action against employees or other persons who complain, testify, or otherwise participate in the complaint process established pursuant to this policy and administrative regulation.
Contact the Title IX Coordinator/Coordinator for Nondiscrimination in Employment listed below for information on Nondiscrimination in Employment/Harassment (including Sexual harassment).
Name: HR Title IX Investigations
E-mail: HRTitleIXinvestigations@sjcoe.net
School District: San Joaquin County Office of Education
Telephone: 209-468-4820

SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY OFFICE OF EDUCATION logo

About SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY OFFICE OF EDUCATION

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

San Joaquin County Office of Education located in Stockton, CA is a regional agency that provides educational leadership, resources, and customized services to assist school districts. San Joaquin County Office of Education (SJCOE) employs over 2,100 classified and certificated employees. SJCOE promotes student achievement and accountability, serves San Joaquin County s most at-risk students, and strives to create an environment in which every student, regardless of circumstances, has an opportunity for a quality education.

Industry

Education

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Stockton, CA, US