ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Summer Program Leader Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

YMCA

Youth Sports Staff | Waukee Family YMCA

Waukee, IA · On-site

$11 - $13.50/hr

This position is responsible for leading, instructing, and supervising youth sports programs JOB ... Lead / teach / demonstrate the activities for the Youth Sports Summer Program. * Ability to follow ...

KE Camps

Summer Day Camp Counselor

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$10 - $12/hr

KE Camps is the leading provider of summer camps for country clubs nationwide. We partner with over ... Hands on Leadership Experience - You will supervise a group of campers, lead programs and ...

KE Camps

Summer Day Camp Counselor

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$10 - $12/hr

KE Camps is the leading provider of summer camps for country clubs nationwide. We partner with over ... Hands on Leadership Experience - You will supervise a group of campers, lead programs and ...

KE Camps

Summer Day Camp Counselor-Intern

Cedar Rapids, IA

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

KE Camps is the leading provider of summer camps for country clubs nationwide. We partner with over ... Hands on Leadership Experience - You will supervise a group of campers, lead programs and ...

KE Camps

Summer Day Camp Counselor

Cedar Rapids, IA

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

KE Camps is the leading provider of summer camps for country clubs nationwide. We partner with over ... Hands on Leadership Experience - You will supervise a group of campers, lead programs and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSummer Program Leader JobsSummer Program Leader Jobs in Iowa

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 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 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 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.

Summer Program Leader jobs near you

Youth Sports Staff | Waukee Family YMCA

YMCA

Waukee, IA • On-site

$11 - $13.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 17 days ago

YMCA rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 1,987 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

569th of 769 rated non-profit organizations

Job description

FUN with a PURPOSE!
At the Y, strengthening the community is our cause. Our staff members drive this cause-it is because of our drive, passion, belief in others, and belief in the strength of our mission that we are able to make a difference every day.

POSITION OVERVIEW: This position is responsible for leading, instructing, and supervising youth sports programs
JOB LOCATION: Waukee Family YMCA
YOUTH SPORTS PROGRAM DATES: September 12, 2026-October 22, 2026
SHIFTS AVAILABLE: Monday - Thursday from 4:30 - 7:30pm
PAY RANGE: $11-$13.50+ / hour depending on qualifications
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: August 10, 2026 - Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  1. Conduct programs in a fun, positive atmosphere and create an environment that welcomes all types of participants from varying levels and backgrounds.
  2. Supervise activities located at the site assigned to.
  3. Lead / teach / demonstrate the activities for the Youth Sports Summer Program.
  4. Ability to follow and implement curriculum for the Youth Sports Program provided by the supervisor.
  5. Communicate with the participants about information regarding program activities.
  6. Address participants' concerns and notify the supervisor.
  7. Relate to individual participants on a professional basis at all times.
  8. Exercise sound judgement in situations not covered by policies, procedures, and practices.
  9. Assist leadership with developing the program curriculum.
  10. Monitor and maintain equipment, and report specific problems or needs to the supervisor or designated staff person.
  11. Ensure safety of participants by enforcing policies and disciplinary rules.
  12. Know emergency procedures and be able to demonstrate them.
  13. Perform additional duties as assigned by supervisor or designated staff person.
  14. Demonstrate and support the objectives of the Association as embodied in the mission statement and values.

What YMCA employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply