Summer Day Camp Staff – Counselors, Lead Counselors, and Directors

Do you have a passion for childhood learning and enjoy leading various activities like arts, crafts, and games? This is a great opportunity for those looking to go into a career in Recreation or Education. It is also an ideal experience for those that have extra time, enjoy working with children, and find fulfillment providing leadership to kids in our community.

We're hiring for multiple Summer Day Camp positions in our Community Enrichment Services team, including:

• Camp Counselors (Program Leader I) - Great for first-time job seekers or those with limited experience.

• Lead Camp Counselors (Program Leader II) - Perfect for those with previous experience in recreation or childcare.

• Camp Directors (Program Leader III) - Ideal for candidates with strong leadership skills and experience running youth programs.

Apply now to embark on a rewarding journey of fun and learning!

Timeline

• Successful applicants should expect an interview sometime between April and May. This is subject to change.
• If hired, applicants should expect to attend training June 23rd - 27th.
• Camp KHAOS (full day ages 5-12 camp) runs 6/30/2025 through 8/29/2025 at the Des Moines Field House.
• If hired, shifts could be from 6:30-10:00am, 10:00-2:00pm, or 2:00-6:00pm. Shifts are subject to change.

To Apply

Complete the online application at https://desmoineswa.applicantpro.com/jobs/and attach a resume and cover letter explaining how you meet the requirements.

Nature of Work

The Program Leader positions, Camp Counselor, Camp Lead Counselor, and Camp Director, provide general programming and operational support for Community Enrichment Services, including recreation, childcare, youth activities, senior programming, special events, and facility rentals.

Summer Camp Leaders assist with the delivery of activities and events, support daily site operations, and help ensure a safe and welcoming environment for participants of all ages. Duties may include activity setup and cleanup, customer service, supervision of participants, basic maintenance tasks, and other site-based responsibilities as assigned. Work assignments, supervision, and responsibilities vary based on program area, staffing level, and site needs.

Distinguishing Characteristics

The Program Leader classification is flexibly staffed and includes levels, with assignments and responsibilities increasing in scope and independence at each level. All Program Leaders support programming and operations in areas such as recreation, childcare, youth activities, senior programs, special events, and facility rentals.

• Summer Day Camp Counselor - Program Leader I - $16.78 - $18.78 - Entry-level position. Assists with basic activity support, participant supervision, site setup and cleanup, and customer service. Works under direct supervision and follows established routines. Typically assigned to support roles.
• Summer Day Camp Lead Counselor - Program Leader II - $19.00 - $21.00 - Performs all duties of a Program Leader I with additional responsibility for independently leading activities or small groups, enforcing rules, and supporting routine site operations with minimal supervision. May assist with training new staff or serving as a lead for short shifts. May be assigned to transport participants or supplies if approved as a City driver.
• Summer Day Camp Director - Program Leader III - $21.50 - $23.50 - Provides on-site leadership for assigned programs or facilities. Acts as the primary point of contact during scheduled shifts, provides guidance to Program Leader I and II staff, and completes site documentation such as attendance and incident reports. May assist with coordinating day-to-day operations, resolving customer issues, and communicating with supervisors. May be required to drive a City vehicle as part of site coordination or to support off-site programs, field trips, or supply distribution.

Essential Functions

• Assists with planning, preparing, and leading recreational, educational, or enrichment activities for participants of all ages.
• Supports day-to-day program operations, including activity facilitation, p