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Summer Programming Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

... programming that is fun, while promoting growth and independence Engage and participate with ... Summer schedule runs from June 1st to August 15th Ability to attend and successfully complete ...

Summer Camp Counselor

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$2.0K - $4.3K/wk

... • Provide programming that is fun, while promoting growth and independence • Engage and ... Summer schedule runs from June 1st to August 15th • Ability to attend and successfully complete ...

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Summer Programming information

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 strong organizational skills, experience in youth program planning, and often a background in education or recreation. Familiarity with scheduling software, registration systems, and first aid/CPR certification is typically required. Leadership, creativity, and effective communication are standout soft skills for engaging participants and managing diverse teams. These skills ensure safe, enjoyable, and smoothly run programs that meet the needs of children and families.

What are some typical daily responsibilities for someone working in a summer programming role?

In a summer programming role, your daily responsibilities often include planning, organizing, and leading activities or workshops for participants, whether they are children, teens, or adults. You’ll coordinate with other team members to ensure that the program schedule runs smoothly, adapt activities to meet group needs, and foster a positive, inclusive environment. Additionally, you may be responsible for managing supplies, handling participant questions, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. Collaboration and flexibility are key, as each day can bring new challenges and rewarding experiences.

What is the difference between Summer Programming vs Summer Camp Counselor?

AspectSummer ProgrammingSummer Camp Counselor
Required CredentialsVaries; often includes teaching or activity certificationsTypically requires youth supervision experience; certifications like CPR may be preferred
Work EnvironmentEducational settings, community centers, or specialized programsOutdoor or recreational camp settings, often in nature
Employer & Industry UsageSchools, nonprofits, educational organizationsSummer camps, recreational organizations
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding program roles, qualifications, and responsibilitiesLearning about youth supervision and camp activities

Summer Programming involves developing and managing educational or activity-based programs, often in formal settings. Summer Camp Counselors focus on supervising and engaging children in outdoor or recreational activities at camps. While both roles involve working with youth during summer, Summer Programming emphasizes program development and instruction, whereas Summer Camp Counselors focus on supervision and activity facilitation.

What is summer programming?

Summer programming refers to a variety of organized educational or recreational activities offered during the summer months, typically for children and teenagers. These programs can include academic enrichment, coding or computer science classes, sports, arts, and other specialized interests. Summer programming provides opportunities for learning new skills, socializing, and keeping students engaged while school is out. Many organizations, schools, and camps offer summer programming to help participants continue their development in a fun and supportive environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Programming jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Programming jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Summer Programming jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Summer Programming job openings:
Summer Camp Leader | West Des Moines Area

Summer Camp Leader | West Des Moines Area

YMCA of Greater Des Moines

West Des Moines, IA • On-site

$13.50 - $14.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

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:West Des Moines Christian Church and/or Colby Park in Windsor Heights
SEASONAL PROGRAM DATES: Now - 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 26, 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.

Requirements
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
  1. Ability to read, write, and perform simple mathematical functions.
  2. Must be 16 years of age (if under 18, must be working with an adult 18+)
  3. Previous experience working with youth is preferred.
  4. Perform basic computer skills such as checking in and out participants, computerized time clock, and online training requirements
  5. Current Red Cross CPR/First Aid/AED Certification OR equivalent - prior to starting.
  6. Intro to Y's Cause & Culture Online Course - prior to starting if hired.
  7. Approval by State of Iowa Licensing requirements including pre-employment physical - with the first 30 days of employment.
  8. Additional training to be completed within the first 30 days and maintained afterwards.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
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.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is:
  • Regularly required to sit, stand and walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects; reach with hands and arms; talk and hear.
  • Frequently required to lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, bend/stoop, climb/use stairs and reach/push/pull.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud. This position usually works in indoor and outdoor child care oriented environments, but the mission of the organization may sometimes take them to non-standard workplaces.