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Summer Program Leader Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Summer Search

Career Navigator (Chicago IL)

Chicago, IL

$76K - $79K/yr

... program leadership at Aon and a robust team of part- and full-time colleagues at Summer Search. Reporting to the Lead Business Development Associate, the Career Navigator ensures consistent, high ...

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Summer Program Leader information

What does a summer program leader do?

A Summer Program Leader is responsible for planning, organizing, and supervising activities for children or youth during summer programs or camps. They ensure the safety and well-being of participants, lead recreational and educational activities, and foster a positive and inclusive environment. Summer Program Leaders also communicate with parents, assist with conflict resolution, and help create memorable experiences for participants.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a summer program leader, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Summer Program Leader, you need experience in youth supervision, activity planning, and a background in education or recreation, often supported by CPR/First Aid certification. Familiarity with scheduling software, safety protocols, and incident reporting systems is also valuable. Strong leadership, creativity, and effective communication skills help you engage participants and resolve conflicts smoothly. These skills ensure a safe, enriching, and well-organized environment where youth can learn and have fun.

What are typical challenges faced by a summer program leader and how can they be addressed?

Summer Program Leaders often encounter challenges such as managing diverse groups of children, adapting activities to varying interests and abilities, and maintaining high energy throughout long days. Effective communication, flexibility, and strong organizational skills are key to overcoming these challenges. Building rapport with participants and collaborating closely with fellow staff members helps create a supportive and engaging environment, ensuring the program runs smoothly and safely.

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

AspectSummer Program LeaderCamp Counselor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer experience in youth programsHigh school diploma or equivalent; often entry-level
Work EnvironmentOrganized program settings, planning activities, supervising groupsOutdoor or recreational settings, supervising campers, leading activities
Employer & Industry UsageSchools, community centers, summer camps, youth organizationsSummer camps, recreational programs, youth organizations

Both roles involve working with youth during summer programs, but Summer Program Leaders typically have more responsibilities in planning and supervising entire programs, while Camp Counselors focus on supervising campers and leading activities. The roles often overlap, but the Leader position usually requires more experience and leadership skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Program Leader jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Program Leader jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Summer Program Leader jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Summer Program Leader job openings:

Summer Program Leader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Summer Program Leader job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Internship, 33% Full Time, 39% Part Time, and 22% Summer. Highlights an 78% In-person, and 22% Hybrid job distribution.

Summer Camp Lifeguard

Kenilworth Park District

Kenilworth, IL • On-site

$15.50 - $19/hr

Other

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description


Summer Camp Lifeguard and Counselor
Job Description & Application
Job Title: Camp Lifeguard
Classification: Part-Time Seasonal
Reports to: Program Leader, Camp Director
Camp Dates: June 9 – August 1, 2025
Monday-Friday 8:30 AM – 12/1:30 PM
Position Purpose:
Under general supervision of the Program Leaders and Camp Director, ensures the safety of the public, campers and staff at the Kenilworth Beach by preventing and responding to emergencies.
Counselors assist Program Leaders. Counselors and are responsible for carrying out daily activities as directed by the Program Leaders and Directors.
Essential Job Functions:
1. Under the direction of program leaders assist in the direction, supervision, and organization of campers in their camper group within activities and throughout the camp in order to meet the intended camper outcomes.
ï‚­ Be aware of and implement safety guidelines.
2. Participate in the development and implementation of program activities for campers within the mission and outcomes.
ï‚­ Actively participate in all program areas as assigned..
3. Maintain high standards of health and safety in all activities for campers and staff.
ï‚­ Be alert to equipment and facilities to ensure utilization, proper care, and maintenance is adhered to; report repairs needed promptly to camp director.
4. Be a role model to campers and staff in your attitude and behavior.
ï‚­ Follow and uphold all safety and security rules and procedures.
ï‚­ Set a good example to campers and others in regard to general camp procedures and practices including sanitation, schedule, and sportsmanship.
5. Represent the camp when interacting with parents or community members.
ï‚­ Follow safety and security protocols when campers are in public while presenting a positive image of the camp.
Other Job Duties:
ï‚­ Attend Regular Morning Staff Meetings
ï‚­ Provide supervision for campers as directed by counselors or program leaders while campers are transported to and from camp or during scheduled field trips off of camp property.
ï‚­ Contribute to verbal and written evaluations and communication as requested.
Lifeguard Duties and Responsibilities:
Maintains constant surveillance of patrons at the Kenilworth Beach; acts immediately and appropriately to secure safety of patrons in the event of an emergency.
Provides emergency care and treatment as required until the arrival of emergency medical services.
Presents professional appearance and attitude at all times, and maintains a high standard of customer service.
Performs various maintenance duties as directed to maintain a clean and safe workplace.
Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
Relationships:
Counselors are required to communicate and interact with campers and staff. Counselors are to be courteous and professional at all times.
Equipment Used:
Necessary equipment shall be provided by the Park District.
Qualifications:
American Red Cross Certified Lifeguard or equivalent 
 Must pass a background check.
 Ability to listen, pay attention to detail, and follow directions carefully.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Ability to react calmly and effectively in emergency situations.
Skill in the application of life-guarding surveillance and rescue techniques...
Ability to prepare routine administrative paperwork.
Knowledge of CPR and emergency medical procedures.
Ability to follow routine verbal and written instructions.
Ability to relate to youth and adults in a positive manner.
Physical Aspects of the Job:
ï‚­ Ability to communicate and work with groups participating for the age range of 3 years to 12 years of age, and provide necessary information to campers and staff.
ï‚­ Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to environmental and other hazards related to the activity.
ï‚­ Physical ability to respond appropriately to situations requiring first aid. Must be able to assist camp Program Leaders and Directors in an emergency situation (fire, evacuation, illness, or injury).

Some physical requirements of a general counselorposition could be endurance including prolonged standing, some bending, stooping, walking long distances, hiking, climbing, and stretching; requires eye-hand coordination and manual dexterity to manipulate outdoor equipment and camp activities; requires a normal range of hearing and eyesight to record, prepare, and communicate appropriate camper activities/programs and the ability to lift up to 50 lbs; willing to live in a camp setting and work irregular hours with limited

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