Recreation Day Camp Counselor

Recreation Day Camp is a weekly drop-off camp in the mornings for groups of 15+ children ages 3–11 held at Forest Field and Iron Horse Parks. Each week features a unique theme and includes a variety of staff-led recreation activities such as sports, games, crafts, and creative play.

Counselors plan and lead engaging, age-appropriate activities in a safe and supportive outdoor environment. Counselors work May 18–August 7 and are required to work July 4 and July 25. Occasional evening and weekend shifts may be available if interested. This schedule is weather dependent. 

Up to five days off may be requested off, if done so by May 29. Time off requests will be considered in the order they are received. Exceptions will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. 

SCHEDULE* 

Training weeks (required) 

• May 18 – May 29 (Monday - Friday), 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.  

• No training Monday, May 25 

Regular schedule (June 1 – August 7)  

• 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Monday – Friday 


• 1 – 3:30 p.m., Thursday 

Items of note:

• May 25 and June 19 are not work days.


• Opportunities for additional hours are available during the summer.  


• July 4 and July 25 are required work days.
  


• The schedule is weather dependent and subject to change, at the discretion of the Park District. 

APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS 

• Must be at least 16 to apply. 


• Must have reliable transportation.  


• Must have proven leadership/supervisory experience.   

• Must have a strong interest being outdoors.


• Must have proven experience working with children.   

JOB DESCRIPTION 

SPECIFIC DUTIES & EXPECTATIONS
 

Administrative   

• Maintain accurate program records through attendance and record keeping for the Recreation Day Camp (RDC) and all programs as assigned.   


• Submit weekly planning schedule of activities on Thursday for the next week. Prepare written evaluations of the programs.  

Programming   

• Plan & conduct a well-rounded program to meet the recreational needs of the children.  


• Plan a schedule of activities, games, crafts and special events to provide a fun experience for children in the parks. Demonstrate, lead and teach activities.  


• Supervise a group of 15+ children in a park setting alongside other counselors.  


• Assist with special events and other programs conducted throughout the season.  

Public Relations   

• Serve as a public relations liaison with the community.   


• Maintain an atmosphere of cooperation and camaraderie between program participants, staff and volunteers.  


• Conduct a litter sweep and safety check at the park first and last thing each day.  

GENERAL DUTIES & EXPECTATIONS
 

• Attend all staff training sessions including CPR and First-Aid Certification.  


• Ensure the safety of all participants by maintaining a safe, clean and controlled area.   


• Enforce all park rules and regulations.  


• By setting an example, encourage proper use of parks and park equipment.   


• Be responsible for all park equipment issued to you.  


• Perform basic first aid as necessary.  


• Deliver fun, healthy and outstanding park experiences that connect the community with the outdoors.


• Other duties as assigned.  

REQUIRED SKILLS, ABILITIES, AND QUALIFICATIONS
 

• Proven experience working with children.  


• Proven leadership experience.  


• Exceptional skills in organization and communication.  


• Reliable transportation to various park sites.  


• Pass a pre-employment background screen.


• Be able to read, write and follow oral and written instructions.

JOB FIT
 

• Availability and ability to commit to working Monday – Friday during summer camp hours for the entire summer. 


• Staff must be able and prepared to work outdoors for almost all shifts.