Day Camp Counselor Salary $16.90 Hourly
Location: Jim Porter Recreation Center (Brengle Terrace Park) 1200 Vale Terrace 92084, CA
Job Type: Seasonal Job Number 26-12-S Department: RCS Recreation Opening Date: 02/02/2026 Closing Date: 7/6/2026 4:30 PM Pacific Bargaining Unit: SEAT
Description: This is a temporary part-time seasonal (Summer) position that assists with the planning and implementation of the City of Vistas Day camp program; supervises children; communicates with parents; ensures equipment and facilities are clean and well maintained; organizes games, activities, and crafts; may also assist with department special events and perform other related duties as necessary. This position reports to the Camp Lead Counselor, Recreation Coordinator or Program Supervisor depending on assignment.
CLASS CHARACTERISTICS:
Counselors will be responsible for 15 campers ages 3 to 13. Counselors will be provided a summer camp calendar with weekly themes and activities. Counselors will facilitate and plan crafts, activities, games, science experiments, sports, and more. Counselors will spend 70% of their working shift outdoors. Counselors will be provided supplies by the City of Vista, to clean and sanitize their camp/work area.
Examples of Essential Functions:
• Supervise children during daily activities • Supervise children during guest entertainment assemblies • Implement planned recreational activities • Maintain equipment and supplies for continued use • Communicate with parents on a regular basis • Coordinate supplies for use in daily activities • Attend staff meetings and trainings as required by the program supervisor • Other duties as assigned by the camp director or program supervisor • Assist at various citywide special events as needed
Minimum Qualifications: Any combination of training, education, and experience which demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of the positions as described above.
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE: Typical qualifying background would include a high school diploma, GED or equivalent and related experience in the field. Highschool diploma, GED, or equivilent must be compelted by start date (Thursday, June 4, 2026).
LICENSES: Possession of a valid California Class C Drivers License with a satisfactory driving record is preferred but not required. A CPR and First Aid certification is recommended but not required.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: • Have the ability to work with children in an age appropriate setting • Work with other staff cooperatively in implementing activities • Have excellent customer service skills • Be flexible in adapting to ever changing camp-type situations • Have a sense of fun and play • Patience • Excellent communication skills
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND OTHER WORKING CONDITIONS: • Work inside and outside in various weather conditions • Ability to run, jump, lift up to 25 lbs., squat, and sit depending on camp activity • Work flexible hours, including some evenings, weekends, and holidays • Wear standard work apparel as prescribed by the Parks & Community Services Department
MANDATORY TRAINING AND WORK SCHEDULE: Summer Day Camp starts on Monday, June 8, 2026, until Friday, August 7, 2026. Mandatory Training is on Thursday, June 4, 2026, and Friday, June 5, 2026, from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM. Day Camp Counselors typically work four (4) to six (6) hour shifts. Monday thru Friday.
SELECTION PROCESS: All properly completed applications will be reviewed, and the most qualified candidates will be invited to continue in the selection process. A pre-employment drug test and live scan fingerprint (background check), paid by the City, will be required. Please note this position is open until filled, so it is in your best interest to apply immediately. For questions please call Peggy Wozniak at 760-643-5272.
WORKERS COMPENSATION: The City provides Workers Compensation Insurance to all employees.
RETIREMENT CONTRIBUTION: Employee is required to contribute 7.5% of gross earnings to the MissionSquare Retirement Plan, which is offered in lieu of Social Security, OR Current CalPERS members will be required to contribute the full employee contribution of 8%.
*NOTE: The provisions of this announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract, and any provisions contained in the announcement may be modified or revoked without notice.
ATTENTION APPLICANTS: Copying and pasting duplicate answers and stating "See resume" and/or "see previous answer" are not acceptable to the questions below. By completing this supplemental questionnaire, you are attesting that the information you have provided is accurate and understand that the statements made in this supplemental questionnaire will be considered part of and subject to the terms of my employment application for this position. Please acknowledge your understanding by selecting "Yes". Yes No
Have you obtained a high school diploma or GED or equivalent? If not, will you by the time you are hired? Yes No, but I will by June 4, 2026. No I will not have my high school diploma or GED by June 4, 2026
What is your Summer availability? Do you have any planned vacations? If so, when? Required Question
Employer: City of Vista Address: 200 Civic Center Drive Vista, California, 92084 Phone: 760-639-6145 Website: https://www.vista.gov/