Summer Camp Counselor (Summer 2026, part-time)

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

Incorporated in 1955 and encompassing more than 454 acres, the Mt. Prospect Park District provides outstanding recreational programs, events, parks, facilities and services. With seven primary facilities and 27 neighborhood parks, the Park District is an integral part of a thriving multi-generational community. District open space includes two outdoor pools, biking and walking paths, a dog park, and sizable space for outdoor athletic programming. The District covers over 11 square miles and serves a region of over a quarter million residents in Mount Prospect and surrounding communities. The Mt. Prospect Park District is a proud recipient of the 2026 Illinois Parks and Recreation Association Exceptional Workplace Award!

We are looking for 2026 Summer Camp Counselors! Under the direct supervision of the Camp Director and the Youth Program Supervisor, the Summer Camp Counselor is responsible for supervising children and planning, organizing, and implementing the day-to-day activities of the Park District’s Summer Camp Program. The starting pay rate for the Summer Camp Counselor is $15.00 per hour. Mt. Prospect Park District employees also receive facility usage and programming privileges and discounts! The 2026 Summer Camp Counselor must be at least 16 years old, be able attend all preseason training and staff meetings beginning in mid-May 2026, and be able to work Monday through Friday from June 2nd through August 7th, 2026. Hours vary depending on full or half-day camp sessions and/or before and after camp sessions, but will be in the daytime between 7:15 am to 6:00 pm. A maximum of 5 (unpaid) days off are allowed during the 2026 Summer Camp season. Candidates must be able to successfully pass a criminal background check.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

Responsible for the supervision, safety and recreational programming for children participating in our summer camp programs.

Implement weekly lesson plans that include theme days, special crafts, and other activities.

Maintain a commitment to the development of each child’s self- esteem by providing a safe, fun, and nurturing environment through age-appropriate activities, crafts, and games.

Swim with and be attentive with the children when at the pool. Day camps will swim 3-4 days per week. Half day camp swims 1 day per week.

Attend and supervise campers on field trips and/or outings.

Assist with daily camp preparation and closing procedures.

Attend all mandatory preseason training and staff meetings that run mid May through early June, in the evenings.

Administer basic first aid when required.

Be familiar with and abide by Park District policies and procedures.

Enforce camp rules and implement behavior management plans.

Be familiar with the safe operation of any equipment necessary in accomplishing required tasks.

SECONDARY DUTIES:

Dress in appropriate camp attire in accordance with District policies. District-issued lanyards are required to be worn at all times.

Limit use of cell phones to emergencies only.

Maintain a neat and orderly work environment, return supplies and equipment to the appropriate location when finished.

Perform additional functions as assigned which may be considered essential.

All other duties as assigned by the Youth Program Supervisor, Early Childhood and Youth Manager, Director of Recreation and /or

Executive Director, however, in an emergency, perform all other duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Must be at least 16 years of age. Must be a current high school student, high school graduate or possess a G.E.D.

Must be able to care for, work with, and relate to children.

Must be available Monday through Friday. Days/hours vary based on camp, and fall anywhere from 7:15 AM - 6:00 PM. Half Day, Full Day, and early/late only options are available, based on experience. Camp runs June 2 through August 7. Training runs mid-

May through the start of camp. A maximum of 5 (unpaid) days off allowed during the 2026 Summer Camp season.

Must be able to speak loudly and clearly in a large group setting. Must be able to communicate effectively with others to allow for the coordination of work, for safety purposes and for emergency situations.

Must be able to provide a high level of customer service to internal and external customers.

Must be able to maintain positive and effective working relationships with other employees, children and the general public.

Must be able to work and maintain composure during periods of high activity and in emergency situations.

Must be able to recognize unsafe conditions and emergencies and respond accordingly.

Must be able to follow through on tasks to completion. Must be able to be self-motivated and achieve assigned goals.

Must demonstrate leadership qualities to perform required work.

Must be able to operate a limited range of equipment.

Must be able to lift 25+ pounds. Must be able to perform tasks that require walking, bending, stooping, kneeling, climbing and reaching. Must be able to stand and walk for sustained periods of time. Must be able to squat down to a child’s level. Must be able to demonstrate large/small motor activities. Must be able to go into the swimming pool to at least waist-deep with the program participants.

Camp Counselors work inside and outside and will be exposed to weather conditions including sunlight, humidity, wind, and warm and cold temperatures. May be exposed to common household cleaners.

Due to the needs of the Park District, evening and weekend hours could be required. Your work schedule may vary and your work week may exceed regular hours at times, but your total hours worked will not exceed 1,000 hours per year. Regular and reliable attendance is an essential function of the Summer Camp Counselor position.

Nothing contained herein shall preclude or limit the Park District from changing this written job description through addition, deletion or modification of essential job duties.

The Mt. Prospect Park District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.