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Summer Program Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Mad Science

STEM Summer Camp Instructor

San Jose, CA · On-site

$400 - $700/wk

Our summer programs are 3 hours to 6 hour-long sessions, with the morning session /afternoon sessions and full day sessions. Summer programs are held at various schools, parks, and recreational ...

Mad Science

STEM Summer Camp Instructor

Burlingame, CA · On-site

$400 - $700/wk

Our summer programs are 3 hours to 6 hour-long sessions, with the morning session /afternoon sessions and full day sessions. Summer programs are held at various schools, parks, and recreational ...

Mad Science

STEM Summer Camp Instructor

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$400 - $700/wk

Our summer programs are 3 hours to 6 hour-long sessions, with the morning session /afternoon sessions and full day sessions. Summer programs are held at various schools, parks, and recreational ...

Mad Science

STEM Summer Camp Instructor

Fremont, CA · On-site

$400 - $700/wk

Our summer programs are 3 hours to 6 hour-long sessions, with the morning session /afternoon sessions and full day sessions. Summer programs are held at various schools, parks, and recreational ...

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All JobsSummer Program JobsSummer Program Jobs in California

Summer Program information

See California salary details

$24.7K

$57.4K

$87.3K

How much do summer program jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for summer program in California is $57,391.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,900.00 and $64,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are summer programs?

Summer programs are organized educational or recreational activities that take place during the summer months, typically when regular school is not in session. These programs can focus on academics, arts, sports, leadership, or other areas of interest, and are designed for children, teenagers, or even college students. They provide opportunities for skill development, social interaction, and personal growth in a structured environment. Many summer programs are offered by schools, community organizations, universities, or private companies.

What is the difference between Summer Program vs Internship?

AspectSummer ProgramInternship
CredentialsTypically no specific credentials requiredOften requires students or recent graduates
Work EnvironmentEducational, training-focused, often group activitiesReal-world work experience, individual projects
PurposeSkill development, exposure to industry, trainingHands-on work, professional experience, networking
DurationUsually a few weeks to a couple of months during summerVaries from a few weeks to several months, often during summer or semester

Summer programs are primarily designed for skill development and industry exposure through training and group activities, often targeting students. Internships focus on providing real-world work experience, allowing interns to contribute to projects and gain professional skills. Both are valuable for career exploration but serve different purposes and environments.

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

To thrive as a Summer Program Coordinator, you need organizational skills, experience in youth programming, and often a background in education or recreation. Familiarity with registration software, scheduling tools, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities help manage staff, engage participants, and address unexpected challenges. These skills are essential to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and well-run program that meets participants' needs.

What are some common challenges faced by staff in a Summer Program role, and how can they be managed?

Staff in Summer Program roles often encounter challenges such as managing diverse groups of participants, adapting activities to suit varying interests and abilities, and maintaining high energy throughout long days. Successful staff members develop strong communication skills, flexibility, and proactive planning to address these challenges. Regular check-ins with team members and supervisors also help in sharing strategies and providing support, ensuring a positive and engaging experience for participants.
What are the most commonly searched types of Program jobs in California? The most popular types of Program jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Summer Program jobs? Cities in California with the most Summer Program job openings:
Summer Program jobs near you
Infographic showing various Summer Program job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,391 per year, or $27.6 per hour.
Summer Program Lead Staff - $700/per week

Summer Program Lead Staff - $700/per week

YMCA of the East Bay

Loma Mar, CA

$700/wk

Temporary

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY: The Summer Program Lead supports the daily operation of YMCA Camp Loma Mar by working directly with campers, staff, and programs to ensure a safe, engaging, and positive camp experience. Program Leads serve in hands-on roles supporting cabin groups, specialty activities, operational needs, and camp-wide programs.

Program Leads work under the supervision of Summer Program Coordinators and Directors, collaborate closely with counselors and fellow leads, and contribute to a strong camp culture centered on belonging, service, stewardship, and community. Residential responsibilities apply based on role assignment and are outlined in addendums.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Camper Engagement & Support

  • Build positive, supportive relationships with campers while modeling YMCA core values.
  • Support camper supervision, behavior expectations, and social-emotional development.
  • Foster a sense of belonging, inclusion, and community within cabins and programs.

Program & Activity Support

  • Lead or support program activities and specialty areas as assigned.
  • Assist with setup, breakdown, and safe operation of program areas.
  • Support camp-wide programs, evening activities, and special events.

Cabin & Operational Support

  • Provide cabin coverage during staff breaks, nights off, or operational needs.
  • Support daily routines, transitions, and supervision expectations.
  • Assist with operational tasks such as lists, materials, logistics, and communication as assigned.

Safety & Compliance

  • Follow all safety procedures, supervision ratios, and emergency protocols.
  • Uphold YMCA, ACA, and state standards at all times.
  • Report incidents, concerns, or maintenance issues promptly.

Professionalism & Teamwork

  • Communicate clearly with supervisors and teammates.
  • Attend required trainings, meetings, and briefings.
  • Follow YMCA policies including child abuse prevention, conduct, and cell phone use.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Primarily outdoors in variable weather and terrain.
  • Ability to stand, walk, lift up to 25 pounds, and respond quickly to emergencies.
  • Residential requirements apply based on role assignment.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Minimum 18 years of age.
  • Experience working with youth or in camp/program settings preferred.
  • Ability to work effectively with diverse campers and staff.
  • CPR, First Aid, AED, and Child Abuse Prevention training (within 30 days of hire).
  • Willingness to be trained in assigned program areas or responsibilities.

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