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Summer Program Leader Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

St. Albans School

Summer Intern

Washington, DC

Interact with and engage students. Assist with preparations for the summer program. Format, collect ... Exhibit qualities of leadership and organizational ability and reflect a spirit of cooperation in ...

St. Albans School

Summer Intern

Washington, DC · On-site

... for the summer program. · Format, collect and organize documents; create students' curricular ... of leadership and organizational ability and reflect a spirit of cooperation in working with staff ...

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All JobsSummer Program Leader JobsSummer Program Leader Jobs in Washington, DC

Summer Program Leader information

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$12

$34

$64

How much do summer program leader jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer program leader in Washington, DC is $34.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.98 and $51.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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
Infographic showing various Summer Program Leader job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% Internship, 50% Full Time, and 25% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $71,854 per year, or $34.5 per hour.

Youth & Teen Program Leader (Two Vacancies)

Arlington County, VA

Arlington, VA • On-site

$61K - $96K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description


IMPORTANT NOTICE: Arlington County requires all applicants to thoroughly complete each section of the application, including prior job responsibilities, duties, and supplemental questions. While you may attach a resume, it will not replace a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
The Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) is seeking two Youth & Teen Program Leaders to oversee a variety of youth programs including a robust Out of School Time (OST) teen after school program, weekend/evening special events, youth school break and elementary summer camps, and program outreach. The Program Leader ensures all aspects of daily operations run smoothly and align with DPR's values of equity, inclusion, and youth development. The Program Leader will develop and implement engaging, developmentally appropriate programming, maintain compliance with safety and operational policies, and foster strong relationships with families, schools, and community partners.
We're looking for energetic, organized, and youth-centered Program Leaders who are passionate about recreation, education, and equity. This is not your average desk job - this is a hands-on, heart-forward leadership role where you'll design and lead programs that engage young people beyond the school bell.
Responsibilities
Specific duties include:
  • Supervising and coaching temporary/seasonal staff members and preparing evaluations, including ensuring effective task execution, program safety, and active participant engagement;
  • Developing program calendars, planning and facilitating team meetings, fostering professional growth and program excellence;
  • Managing completion of activity sheets and the assignment of staff to specific activities, ensuring alignment with program objectives;
  • Maintaining a consistent presence on the program floor, leading activities, supporting staff, and ensuring adherence to safety protocols and behavior management standards;
  • Modeling and reinforcing positive behavior management techniques in line with Arlington CARES customer service values, providing coaching to staff as needed;
  • Maintaining a physically and emotionally safe environment for all participants by celebrating differences, creating appropriate relationships with all participants that are under your care, and supporting participants as they navigate social and emotional development;
  • Monitoring and tracking program budget expenditures, participant attendance, registration, and evaluation data;
  • Ensuring supplies, equipment, and other programmatic components are on-site in a timely manner, including pick-up and drop-off of items;
  • Working with individuals with disabilities and providing personal care of participants (training provided); and
  • Performing other job-related duties as assigned.

Successful candidates will be able to collaborate and communicate with others, have the ability to complete tasks, take initiative, and work successfully in a team environment. Additionally, successful candidates will be able to travel to multiple site locations per day including pick up and drop off of program supplies & equipment.
Qualifications
  • High school diploma/equivalent; and
  • Some experience administering or supporting recreational, educational, youth programs, or other related programs.

Substitution: Successful completion of some college coursework from an accredited college or university may be substituted for the experience requirement.
Desirables: Preference may be given to candidates with experience in one or more of the following:
  • Working in youth recreation programs in a leadership role;
  • Planning and leading recreational activities;
  • Willingness and/or experience working with individuals with disabilities;
  • Working with diverse populations; and/or
  • Evaluating and coaching staff.

Special Requirements
Please attach a Resume to this application.
If selected, staff may be required to:
  • Agree to a criminal background check, including possess a driver's license and driving history record check.
  • Possess First Aid/CPR/AED or obtain within 60 days of hire.
  • Must complete the Medication Administration Training Certification by the first day of program.
  • Provide references, which may be attached to this application.
  • Attend all training, wear a uniform, and can lift up to 25 lbs.
  • Stand for prolonged periods of time during the work shift.
  • Provide personal care as needed for participants (training provided).
  • Arlington County requires all employees to have a bank account to accept direct payroll deposits.

Additional Information
Work Hours: Monday-Saturday. Typical hours are Monday-Friday, 2:00-6:00 p.m. or 2:00-7:00 p.m. (September-June), with additional shifts on APS early release days (1:00-6:00 p.m.), school breaks and summer (8:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.), and Friday/Saturday evenings (5:00-10:30 p.m.).
The official job title is DPR Program Assistant.
This position is eligible for County government employee benefits that include health, dental, vacation and sick leave, commuter transportation subsidies, tuition reimbursement, as well as a generous retirement plan. For more information, click here.
Arlington County is committed to advancing diversity, equity, access, and inclusion across all our services, activities, and programs. Learn more about our commitment.
Please complete each section of the application. A resume may be attached; however, it will not substitute for the completed application. Your response to the supplemental questionnaire is required. Incomplete applications may not be considered. In accordance with § 19.2-392.15, applicants are not required to provide information regarding sealed arrests, charges, or convictions in response to any questions or inquiries during the hiring process.
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