1

Summer Program Instructor Jobs in Washington, DC

OST Instructor

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$40/hr

The Instructor assists and facilitates non-academic programming and activities, including ... summer program partners. * Communicates information to students clearly, respectfully, and with an ...

OST Instructor

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$40/hr

The Instructor assists and facilitates non-academic programming and activities, including ... summer program partners. * Communicates information to students clearly, respectfully, and with an ...

Camp Instructor

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$17/hr

Camp Instructor - Going Places Summer Camp - Arlington, VA Camp starts 6-29-26 through 8-7-26 ... after-school and summer programs, and FableVision, an award-winning, educational media, and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Summer Program Instructor information

See Washington, DC salary details

$7

$19

$38

How much do summer program instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer program instructor in Washington, DC is $19.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $21.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

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 some common challenges Summer Program Instructors face, and how can they effectively 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 are Summer Program Instructors?

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 popular job titles related to Summer Program Instructor jobs in Washington, DC? For Summer Program Instructor jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Summer Program Instructor jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Summer Program Instructor jobs in Washington, DC are:
Infographic showing various Summer Program Instructor job openings in Washington, DC as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% Full Time, 88% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,852 per year, or $19.6 per hour.
2026 Summer Debate Camp Junior Instructor and Residential Advisor

2026 Summer Debate Camp Junior Instructor and Residential Advisor

Capitol Debate

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

Temporary

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Job Description
Preamble
All Capitol Debate Staff, regardless of title or experience, are committed to serving the best interests of our students, making it an amazing summer for all participants, showing up every day as their best selves, and taking on any and all responsibilities that contribute to a successful camp. All Capitol Debate staff are considered Camp Counselors first and foremost.
Job Overview
Capitol Debate Summer Camps is seeking Junior Instructors/Residential Advisors for our summer camps running from May 31 to August 6, 2026. We host camps in 15 cities throughout the country, offering a great travel opportunity. This role combines instructional duties with responsibilities in residential life. Applicants must be able and willing to live on campus during the camp duration. Staff must be available a minimum of 6 weeks during the summer to be considered.Responsibilities
Instructional Duties not limited to:
  • Mentor and assist with the planning and implementation of residential activities
  • Help students with research, writing their cases or presentations, and provide feedback
  • Judge student competitions and help facilitate student showcases

Residential Life Duties not limited to:
  • Act as a mediator, encourager, cheerleader, mentor, and motivator in residential life activities
  • Ensure active student participation and supervise student safety in all activities and dorm life.
  • Conduct room checks at curfew and monitor residential halls until midnight for student safety
  • Assist with planning and implementation of residential activities.

General Duties not limited to:
  • Attend all staff meetings during the camp
  • Assist with first and last-day camp ceremonies and activities including setting up of materials
  • Provide any additional support as requested by Camp Director or Residential Life Directors

Time Commitment
  • Participate in approximately 10 hours of pre-camp training focused on camp and residential life
  • Attend a minimum of 3, 2 week camp sessions, totaling 6 weeks of camp.

Requirements
Requirements & Experience
Counselors/junior instructors are often current college students or recent high school graduates with a background in public speaking and debate (including activities like DECA, Model UN, and Mock Trials). Experience working in youth-based programs is a plus. Required attendance at training sessions and planning meetings leading up to our summer program, including an all-staff orientation and training on Day 0. Returning Counselors are eligible for increased responsibilities and compensation. Staff may need to walk long distances under summer conditions and share dorm rooms with fellow counselors of the same gender.
  • High school graduate or equivalent (Preferred)
  • Fully vaccinated
  • Experience in oral advocacy activities such as Speech and Debate, Mock Trial, Model United Nations, or similar (Required)
  • Experience working at a summer camp: 1 year (Preferred)
  • Competitive Public speaking: 2 years (Required)

Compensation is set and will be discussed during interview