Recreation Day Camp Leader; Summer Season

Overview

Position Summary

The City of La Mesa has openings for Day Camp Leaders for the Summer Day Camp Program (June 1 – August 7, 2026). The program is operated through La Mesa Community Services. Camp La Mesa serves children ages 6 to 13 with activities including field trips, crafts, cooking, singing, organized games, swimming, and more. Day Camp meets Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. This is a part-time, temporary position up to 30 hours per week, Monday through Friday.

Shifts vary (examples: 7:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. or 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.). Shifts over 6 hours include a 1/2 hour unpaid lunch break.

Class specifications describe the range of duties performed by employees in the class and are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.

The City seeks individuals to assist in teaching classes or lead a variety of recreational program activities, including sports, special events, day camps, arts and crafts and other recreation programs. Responsibilities include on-site supervision, setting up and issuing equipment, and maintaining records and reports.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise 10 to 20 campers per week, ages 6–13 years.
• Plan and lead varied activities each week.
• Observe safety precautions for participants and activities.
• Interface daily with parents, the general public, and city colleagues.
• Supervise aides and teen volunteers.
• Assist campers in the pool on a daily basis.

Inclusion Leader Consideration

La Mesa Day Camp occasionally has campers with special needs. An Inclusion Leader may be assigned to work one-on-one with the camper to ensure a positive experience. If a one-on-one assignment is not needed, the Inclusion Leader would work as a traditional Leader as described in the posting.

Inclusion Leader Responsibilities

• With the Camp Coordinator, meet with the camper and parent prior to attendance to discuss needs, helpful information, and communication of daily events.
• Assist the camper’s participation in activities; offer alternative behaviors and provide understanding as needed.
• Collaborate with Camp Coordinator and staff to share ideas and suggestions.

Any combination of education and experience likely to provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical path includes the following:

Education/Training

Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade. College-level coursework in recreation, physical education, or a closely related field is highly desirable.

Experience

At least one year of responsible experience working in a recreation program.

If Hired As An Inclusion Leader

Some experience as an Inclusion Leader or training/classes in the area of special needs children ages 6–13.

• Possession of a Standard First Aid Certificate required by May 23, 2026.
• Possession of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Certificate (Infant, Child & Adult) required by May 23, 2026.
• Possession of AED Certificate required by May 23, 2026.
• California /Driver’s License or sufficient proof of identification required for fingerprinting purposes.

• Ability to plan, organize, and implement activities in a day camp program.
• Ability to handle and diffuse disruptive behavior among participants.
• Ability to meet and interact with participants and the public tactfully.
• Ability to engage with campers in large-group settings.
• Maintain a high level of enthusiasm and serve as a positive role model.
• Attend orientation/training on Saturday, May 23, 2026 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
• Successful completion of a physical exam is required (details provided upon request).

Interested applicants must submit an online application and supplemental questionnaire by the at 5:00 p.m. All required certificates/licenses must be submitted by date of hire. Only candidates whose qualifications closely meet the City’s needs will be invited to interview. Interviews are tentatively scheduled for the week of March 16, 2025. Submission of an application does not guarantee participation in testing.

Note
:
Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a pre-employment medical evaluation and background investigation.