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. Apply now to embark on a rewarding journey of fun and learning!
Schedule:
Summer Camp runs from end of June thru August. Monday - Friday from 6:45 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Some weekend hours may be available.
Closing Date
Those that apply prior to June 01, 2026 will have first consideration. Open until filled.
To Apply
Complete the online application at https://desmoineswa.applicantpro.com/jobs/and attach a resume and provide three professional resumes that can speak to your employment or volunteer experience.
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 – $17.24 - $19.29 - 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 – $19.52 - $21.57 - 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 – $22.09 - $24.14 - 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.
- Summer Day Camp Director - Program Leader IV – $24.66 - $26.71 – Assigned to support large, high-traffic programs or serve as a float or coordinator across multiple sites. Provides guidance to staff, ensures compliance with program standards, and addresses operational issues in real time. May assist with scheduling, site coverage, supply management, or staff onboarding support. May be required to drive 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, participant supervision, and site monitoring.
- Provides customer service to participants, parents, renters, and the public by answering questions, enforcing rules, and addressing basic concerns.
- Performs site setup and takedown, including moving tables, chairs, equipment, and program supplies.
- Conducts light cleaning and maintenance duties such as sweeping, mopping, restocking supplies, and removing trash to maintain a clean and safe environment.
- May transport participants or program supplies using a City vehicle, depending on assignment and possession of a valid driver's license and completion of the City's driver authorization process.
- Completes required documentation such as attendance logs, accident/incident reports, and basic facility checklists.
- Monitors participant and patron safety; responds to and reports concerns, incidents, and emergencies according to department procedures.
- Supports special events, rentals, or off-site activities as needed, including assisting with logistics, equipment, and participant engagement.
- May provide lead direction to other temporary staff depending on assignment and classification level.
- Establishes and maintains cooperative, effective working relationships with co-workers, other City employees, and the general public using principles of good customer service.
- Reports for scheduled work with regular, reliable, and punctual attendance.
- Performs other duties as assigned, including but not limited to being assigned to work in other functional areas to cover absences or relief, equalize peak work periods, or balance the workload.
Necessary Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of:
- Basic principles and practices of recreation, customer service, and group supervision.
- Standard first aid procedures and bloodborne pathogen protocols.
Ability to:
- Lead or assist with a variety of activities including arts and crafts, games, fitness, special events, and facility operations.
- Interact effectively and professionally with children, teens, adults, seniors, coworkers, and the general public.
- Recognize and respond to safety hazards, behavioral issues, and emergency situations using sound judgment.
- Follow written and verbal instructions, established procedures, and safety protocols.
- Communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing.
- Work independently and collaboratively as part of a team in a fast-paced, service-oriented environment.
- Adapt to changing schedules, priorities, and program needs.
- Lift and move up to 50 pounds and perform physical tasks such as bending, reaching, standing, and setting up spaces.
- Maintain composure and professionalism when dealing with the public, including in high-pressure or stressful situations.
- Maintain confidentiality and adhere to departmental policies, procedures, and expectations.
Education and Experience Requirements
Summer Day Camp Counselor - Program Leader I
- Must be at least 16 years of age.
- Must be currently enrolled in, or on legitimate leave from, a high school, trade school, college, or university; OR
Summer Day Camp Lead Counselor - Program Leader II
- Must be at least 16 years of age.
- High school diploma or GED required.
- One year of experience as a Program Leader I or equivalent experience in recreation, childcare, customer service, or facility support: OR
Summer Day Camp Director - Program Leader III
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Two years of experience as a Program Leader II or equivalent experience in leading recreational programs, supervising staff, or overseeing facility operations: OR
Summer Day Camp Director - Program Leader IV
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- High School diploma or GED required.
- Three years of experience as a Program Leader III or equivalent experience with site lead duties, supervising staff, staff guidance, parent/customer resolution; reports/logistics.
Special Requirements
- Must obtain and maintain valid First Aid and Bloodborne Pathogens certification within (30) days of hire.
- Possession of a valid Washington State Driver's License and ability to meet City driving standards may be required for Program Leader III and IV assignments.
- Successful completion of a criminal history and pre-employment background check.
- Because of the known effects of tobacco use, the City of Des Moines does not hire applicants who use tobacco products.
Working Conditions and Physical Abilities
Program Leaders work in both indoor and outdoor environments, including community centers, parks, classrooms, and event or rental spaces. Work may involve exposure to various weather conditions, noise, and large groups. Staff may occasionally come into contact with cleaning products or bodily fluids while performing routine maintenance or providing first aid. Schedules are variable and may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, and split shifts, depending on program or facility needs. Eligible staff may be required to drive City vehicles as part of their assignment.
The position requires the physical ability to stand and walk for extended periods, bend, reach, twist, climb, and perform repetitive movements. Staff must be able to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds, including tables, chairs, equipment, and supplies. Must be able to respond quickly in emergency situations, administer basic first aid, and assist participants with limited mobility if needed. Personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves or masks, may be required depending on assignment and task.
Extra-Hire Employment
- The City defines an "extra-hire employee" as one who is appointed to a position that is not eligible for benefits except those mandated by law or regulations, such as Social Security and workers' compensation insurance.
Equal Opportunity Employer
- The City of Des Moines is committed to hiring a diverse workforce and all qualified applicants, including all ethnic backgrounds and persons with disabilities, are encouraged to apply. The City of Des Moines is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status, disability status, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, or local law.
- In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, an employer is obligated to make a reasonable accommodation only to the known limitations of an otherwise qualified individual with a disability. In general, it is the responsibility of the applicant or employee with a disability to inform the employer that an accommodation is needed to participate in the application process, to perform essential job functions or to receive equal benefits and privileges of employment.
