Camp Program Leader (18+) - Summer 2026

We are beginning to hire Program Leaders for our 2026 camp programs. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age at the start of camp training (May 30) to be considered for this position. We provide day camp programs that focus on adventure, friendship, fun, exploration, sports, the arts, discovery and safety. We are proud to state that our day camp program is accredited with the American Camping Association.

Under the leadership of the Assistant Director, Director, and Camp Supervisor, the Program Leader will have the following duties: the supervision of assigned campers; planning of camp activities; daily camp set-up and end of camp day clean-up; implementation of camper sign-in and sign-out procedures and the maintenance of accurate attendance and other records. They will lead campers in games, sports, arts and crafts, swimming activities, drama, field trips and other organized activities specific to each camp. While leading, the Program Leader is responsible for the supervision and safety of campers assigned to their camp group; and is watchful of all other campers including those not assigned to them. In addition, they are responsible for alerting the Assistant Director, Director or Camp Supervisor of any unsafe or suspicious situations that may arise. They will assist in the supervision of Junior Program Leaders and Apprentice or CIT (Counselor in Training) participants. Program Leaders are also expected to attend pre-camp training sessions during the week of May 30, in-service training sessions and meetings as required. The Program Leader may be asked to perform additional duties as assigned. Duties may vary at different camps.
 

Hours: Most camps are 8 weeks long and begin Monday, June 8, 2026 and run through Friday, July 31, 2026. Many camps have additional camp weeks that run from Monday, August 3, 2026 through August 14, 2026. Hours are generally 9 AM to 4 PM but may vary depending on the camp. Attendance at training one week before camp begins, June 1 – 5, 2026 is required. The dates and times of these trainings will be determined and provided by camp supervisors. Availability to attend parent nights after regular camp hours, generally 2 parent nights total, is also expected. Preference will be given to applicants that are available to work both sessions of camp.

AM and PM Extended Care Hours: We offer several extended camps that take place before and/or after the regular camp day. Extended camp also runs one week following the end of our regular camps. This is the perfect job opportunity for an individual that is not available to work during the regular camp day but has early morning or late afternoon availability.
 

There are perks for joining the SPD Team! 

Pay: $16 - $20 per hour dependent on qualifications

Benefits:

• Paid training
• Fitness membership
• Free golf and Weber Park Golf Course
• Free open skate at Skatium Ice Arena
• Pool Pass 

Must be an energetic, responsible adult, at least 18 years of age by May 30 and enjoy working with children.  Prior summer camp employment experience or related teaching or childcare experience preferred but not required.  Must possess strong leadership, supervisory, communication, organizational and presentation skills. The District provides certification training. To be considered for a summer camp position, we prefer that you are available to work entire camp sessions. This provides staff continuity for our campers.

At the Skokie Park District, we believe in fostering a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcome people of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment where all employees can thrive. We encourage applicants of all races, genders, ages, abilities, and identities to apply and join our team.