Seasonal PE Lead Counselor - Chicago - (Lincoln Park, IL)

As a Physical Education (P.E.) Lead Counselor at Science Factory Camp, you will support campers ages 6–12 through movement‑based, high‑energy activities designed to build teamwork, confidence, and fun. You will use prepared activity plans and bring them to life with your leadership, clear explanations, and the ability to keep kids motivated and included. What matters most is enthusiasm, confidence leading groups, and comfort managing active campers while keeping the experience positive for everyone.

This in‑person summer day camp counselor role is for people who enjoy being active and working with kids. You are not just supervising activities; you are sparking curiosity, building confidence, and creating a fun, inclusive environment. This role is a great fit for patient, energetic leaders who stay calm, connect with kids, and support positive group dynamics.

Camp schedule: Move in materials June 5th–7th, camp session June 8th–August 7th, move out materials August 8th.

Responsibilities

• Lead engaging, developmentally appropriate activities within your specialty area, creating a positive and inclusive experience for all campers.
• Supervise and guide groups of campers, and support other counselors as needed, using strong group management and positive guidance techniques.
• Build meaningful connections with campers, adapt quickly to changing group dynamics, and support both returning and drop‑in campers.
• Maintain camper safety, wellness, and engagement, including awareness of allergies, dietary needs, and individual camper needs.
• Communicate with families and the camp team by sharing updates, documenting incidents or achievements, and supporting smooth daily operations.

Qualifications

• Candidates must pass required state and company background checks and meet state and company minimum education and experience requirements.
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• 6+ months of experience working with camp‑age children required (1 year preferred), ideally in a summer camp setting.
• 6+ months of experience or demonstrated interest in leading hands‑on activities related to the specialty area.
• First Aid and CPR certification required prior to the first day of camp; certification will be provided for those working in NewYork.

About Science Factory Camp

Science Factory Camp is part of the Bright Horizons family, creating meaningful, confidence‑building experiences for children. Campers ages 6–12 explore science, art, and movement through hands‑on projects that encourage curiosity, experimentation, and imagination. Each week features a new theme such as space, animals, or the ocean, blending science concepts and creative thinking. With intentionally low screen time, campers learn through trial and error, embrace the mess, and build confidence as they create, explore, and discover.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently lift, carry, or hold items weighing up to 40 pounds; occasionally lift, carry, or hold weight more than 40 pounds.
• Supervise and interact daily with children both indoors and outdoors for extended periods in varied weather conditions.
• Demonstrate full range of motion to lift, reach, squat, climb, sit, and otherwise fully participate in activities.
• Respond immediately and appropriately to multiple or unexpected situations or emergencies.
• Maintain mental and physical alertness and an appropriate level of energy to perform essential job requirements.
• Ability, with or without accommodation, to hear, understand, and respond to spoken communication, emergency signals, and alarms.
• Ability to communicate clearly with managers, coworkers, children, and families.

Location

Chicago – Lincoln Park, IL.

Compensation

Hourly rate: $17.75–$19.75 per hour, depending on experience, education, certifications, geography, and other relevant factors.

Benefits

• 401(k) retirement plan
• Spring Health Employee Assistance Program
• Money‑saving discounts and financial planning tools

Equal Opportunity Statement

Bright Horizons provides equal opportunity in all aspects of employment and does not discriminate against any individual on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, national origin, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected under federal, state, or local law. Bright Horizons complies with the laws and regulations described in the following federal government resources: Know Your Rights, Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), and Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA). If you require assistance or a reasonable accommodation in completing these application materials or any aspect of the application and hiring process, please contact the recruitment helpdesk at 855‑877‑6866 or Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case‑by‑case basis.