Summer Camp Site Director; Recreation Leader III

Our Mission

The City of Palo Alto is on the lookout for enthusiastic and dynamic individuals to join our team as Seasonal Summer Camp Site Directors for the thrilling 2026 Summer Camp programs. Our mission at the Community Services Department is to create recreational programs that cater to the diverse needs of the community, fostering a positive quality of life!

As a Camp Site Director, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the success of our Summer Camp programs. Working closely with Camp Coordinators, you'll lead a team of Camp Counselors and Counselors in Training (CITs) to deliver a safe and enjoyable experience for participants. Your responsibilities will include planning and leading a variety of activities such as arts and crafts, games, field trips, and sports.

This role promises an engaging and rewarding experience, where you'll unleash your creativity, leadership skills, and positive energy to make this summer unforgettable for the campers and your team! If you're ready to embark on a journey of fun, growth, and community-building, apply now and be part of our vibrant summer family!

Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Multiple positions are available. This recruitment may close at any time, including before the listed closing date, once all positions have been filled.

• Create, implement, and lead non-competitive activities for campers.
• Provide supervision and encourage active participation.
• Enforce on-site rules to ensure a safe environment.
• Assist with In-Service Staff training and attend all necessary meetings.
• Lead, supervise, mentor, and evaluate Assistant Site Directors, Camp Counselors and CITs.
• Ensure the physical and emotional well-being of campers during all activities.
• Activate Emergency Action Plans, perform First Aid, and CPR as necessary.
• Maintain open communication with parents, staff, and the general public.
• Demonstrate high motivation, integrity, customer service, and professionalism.

• Commitment to the entire program, including training and wrap-up.
• Attendance at Directors In-Service Training.
• Negative Tuberculosis test result.
• Successful completion of a background check.
• Previous experience as a Camp Counselor and/or Assistant Site Director.
• Positions require at least 2 years of experience and specialized skills or advanced certifications in a related field including:
  • Summer Camps
  • Teen Outreach Leaders
  • Coaches
  • Substitute Teachers
  • Sports Camp Leaders (CPR and First Aid)
  • Sport Officials (CPR and First Aid)
  • Pool Manager
  • Gymnastics/Dance Instructors (Recreation Leader II requirements and Safety Certification and one of the following certifications:
    Professional Development Program II, Kinder Accreditation for Teachers or Movement Education and Learning Development.)

This is a Limited Hourly non-benefited position, not to exceed 415 hours per fiscal year. Work hours will be determined upon assignment.

• Position Opens:
  February 27, 2026
• Final date to receive applications:
  March 27, 2026
• Tentative Interview Period:
  Week of March 09, 2026
• Summer Camp Staff Training:
  June 08, 2026 - June 12, 2026
• Summer Camps Begin:
  June 15, 2026

Please note:

The dates listed above are tentative and subject to change.

Our online application system is provided by Neo Gov. If you have problems while applying online, please contact Neo Gov's Live Applicant Support at  between 6:00 AM and 5:00 PM Pacific Time, Monday - Friday.

The City of Palo Alto is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City will provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.