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Summer Program Instructor Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

2027 Summer Camp Staff

Portland, OR ยท On-site

$14.75 - $19.25/hr

Roles include program instructors, wranglers, lifeguards, kitchen staff, medics, and more . Whether ... Available for the full summer season * Training and certifications provided * No prior Scouting ...

Instructor

Portland, OR ยท On-site

Instructor Positions Available Abbey Road is a summer study abroad program for American and international teenagers. Our programs take place in the month of July in various locations across Western ...

New

Instructor

Portland, OR ยท On-site

Instructor Positions Available Abbey Road is a summer study abroad program for American and international teenagers. Our programs take place in the month of July in various locations across Western ...

New

Instructor

Portland, OR ยท On-site

Instructor Positions Available Abbey Road is a summer study abroad program for American and international teenagers. Our programs take place in the month of July in various locations across Western ...

New

Instructor

Portland, OR ยท On-site

Instructor Positions Available Abbey Road is a summer study abroad program for American and international teenagers. Our programs take place in the month of July in various locations across Western ...

New

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Summer Program Instructor information

See Portland, OR salary details

$6

$18

$35

How much do summer program instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer program instructor in Portland, OR is $18.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.96 and $19.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a summer program instructor?

To thrive as a Summer Program Instructor, you need experience in youth education or supervision, strong subject knowledge, and often a degree or coursework in education or a related field. Familiarity with lesson planning software, camp management systems, and basic first aid certification are commonly required. Leadership, patience, adaptability, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure engaging, safe, and well-organized programs that foster positive learning experiences for participants.

What are common challenges summer program instructors face, and how can they address them?

Summer Program Instructors often encounter challenges such as managing diverse groups of children with varying needs and maintaining engagement during long program days. Effective communication, flexibility, and proactive planning are key to overcoming these challenges. Building rapport quickly, setting clear expectations, and using a variety of interactive activities can help keep participants focused and enthusiastic. Additionally, collaborating closely with co-instructors and support staff ensures smooth operations and a positive environment for both students and staff.

What is the difference between Summer Program Instructor vs Camp Counselor?

AspectSummer Program InstructorCamp Counselor
Required CredentialsVaries; often CPR/First Aid, sometimes teaching or activity-specific certificationsTypically minimal; focus on supervision and safety
Work EnvironmentEducational settings, community centers, specialized programsSummer camps, outdoor settings, recreational facilities
Employer & Industry UsageSchools, non-profits, private programsSummer camps, youth recreation organizations
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, qualifications, and responsibilitiesSupervision, activities, and camp experience

While both roles involve working with children during summer, Summer Program Instructors often have specific educational or activity-related responsibilities and may require certifications. Camp Counselors focus on supervision, safety, and recreational activities in camp settings. The roles overlap in working environments and target youth engagement, but the Instructor role typically involves more structured educational or skill-based instruction.

What is a summer program instructor?

Summer Program Instructors are professionals who lead and supervise educational or recreational activities for children or teens during summer camps or seasonal programs. They are responsible for planning lessons, ensuring participant safety, and fostering a fun, inclusive environment. Their duties may include teaching specific subjects, organizing games, managing group dynamics, and communicating with parents or guardians. Summer Program Instructors play a key role in helping participants learn new skills and make meaningful connections over the summer.
What are the most commonly searched types of Program Instructor jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Program Instructor jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Summer Program Instructor jobs in Portland, OR? For Summer Program Instructor jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Summer Program Instructor jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Summer Program Instructor jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Summer Program Instructor jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Summer Program Instructor job openings:
Infographic showing various Summer Program Instructor job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,000 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Summer Camp Staff

Scouting America Cascade Pacific Council

Portland, OR โ€ข On-site

$120 - $600/wk

Temporary

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Make a Difference Outdoors!Make friends. Learn new skills. Live in the outdoors. Make a difference.Cascade Pacific Council, Scouting Americahttps://cpcscouting.org/campstaffLocations: Mt. Hood, Oregon Coast, and moreWe're hiring summer camp staff to join our team at 4 amazing resident camps! Roles include program instructors, wranglers, lifeguards, kitchen staff, medics, and more. Whether you're new to Scouting or a seasoned camper, if you love the outdoors and working with youth, we want you on our team.See why to work at camp Watch the videoWhat You'll Do:Lead or support fun, outdoor activities for youth ages 5–9 or 11-17Be a positive role model and team playerHelp create a safe, welcoming, and memorable camp experienceLive and work on-site (housing provided)Requirements:Must be 16+ by the start of campEnjoy working outdoors and with kidsAvailable for the full summer seasonTraining and certifications providedNo prior Scouting experience neededCamps & Locations:Camp Baldwin (Mt. Hood)Camp Meriwether (Oregon Coast)Camp Pioneer (Mt. Jefferson)Butte Creek Scout Ranch (Molalla/Silverton)Perks:Housing & meals includedBuild leadership and teamwork skillsGain certificationsMake a difference in a youth's lifeBackground Check & Equal Opportunity StatementCascade Pacific Council is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with the policies of Scouting America, participation in camp programs and employment opportunities are open to all individuals regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, or socioeconomic status.We are committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion that enriches the Scouting experience for everyone-whether as a participant, volunteer, or staff member.All hired staff must:Become registered members of Scouting AmericaSuccessfully complete a criminal background check (required for applicants age 18+)Follow all Youth Protection and safety policiesUphold a safe, respectful, and inclusive environmentScouting America maintains a strictly alcohol-, tobacco-, and drug-free program environment.