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Summer Program Leader Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

YMCA

Summer Camp Leader | Waukee

Waukee, IA · On-site

$13.50 - $14.50/hr

Monday-Friday during program hours of 6:30a-6:00p PAY RANGE: $13.50-$14.50/hour based on experience CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: June 5, 2026- Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

YSS

Summer Day Camp Counselor (55596)

Ames, IA

$14.40 - $18/hr

Program Leadership * Oversee daily operations of assigned Summer Enrichment classroom. * Plan and deliver theme-based curriculum and activities; submit plans in advance. * Assess youth needs and ...

Elon University

Summer Graduate Intern

Elon, IA

$14 - $16.75/hr

Job Duties * Assists Director with the leadership and coordination for strategic planning ... This role supports the planning for the execution and continuous improvement of programs such as ...

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

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 ...

City of Ames

Summer Camp Counselor

Ames, IA

$10.13 - $10.75/hr

Summer Camp Counselors are directly accountable to the Program Site Supervisor and the Recreation ... For leaders, this includes creating a work culture that brings these values to life. For all ...

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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 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
Summer Camp Leader | Waukee

Summer Camp Leader | Waukee

YMCA

Waukee, IA • On-site

$13.50 - $14.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 29 days ago

YMCA rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 1,975 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

486th of 679 rated non-profit organizations

Job description

Make a Difference in a Child's Life!

There's nothing like summer at the Y! We're here to make kids feel welcome, try new things and make new friends. We help kids grow and show them all they can accomplish when they believe in themselves.

POSITION SUMMARY:
This position is responsible for fostering a sense of Belonging in Campers, providing opportunities for Campers to feel Achievement, and helping Campers build healthy positive Relationships. You will be able to relate to people in a positive manner to build relationships with all who the program.

JOB LOCATION:Waukee Christian Church
SEASONAL PROGRAM DATES: June 1 - August 14, 2026
SHIFTS AVAILABLE:Monday-Friday during program hours of 6:30a-6:00p
PAY RANGE: $13.50-$14.50/hour based on experience
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: June 5, 2026- Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  1. Provide leadership to a group of program participants.
  2. Plan and lead "Huddle Time" activities with your group.
  3. Assist in planning and leading Choice Activities, Large Group Activities, and Club Time that create a relaxed environment with structure for desired outcome.
  4. Create and maintain a safe environment both physically and emotionally for your program group.
  5. Maintain the Y-Voice (Welcoming, Nurturing, Hopeful, Determined, Genuine) in all that you say, do, and think in regards to your program.
  6. Establish positive relationships with participants' guardians, including gaining an understanding of participants' specific needs.
  7. Follow policies and procedures, including Operating Standards.
  8. Follow and be able to demonstrate emergency procedures.
  9. Communicate specific problems and/or needs to a supervisor or designated staff person.
  10. Provide versatile coverage across the organization to uphold operational standards and guarantee a seamless, high-quality experience for all participants
  11. Attend team meetings, trainings, and events assigned by the supervisor, including summer program training prior to the first week of summer programming.
  12. Must stay in compliance with all required trainings, certifications, and child care licensing regulations.
  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.

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