Job Information
Auburn University Auburn Youth Programs Summer Lead Counselor (2026) in Auburn, Alabama
Salary Range: USD $11.00/Hr. - USD $12.00/Hr.
Locations: Auburn University, Alabama
Job Type: Student
Department: Assoc Prov & VP for Outreach
Associated Division: Assoc Prov & VP for Outreach
Req ID: 8049
Overview
The Office of Professional and Continuing Education proudly supports Auburn Youth Programs ( AYP ) one of the most exciting summer experiences on campus. Each year, AYP welcomes over 4,000 high school students to Auburn for academic camps filled with learning, energy, and Auburn spirit.
As a Summer Lead Counselor , you’re not just supporting the program, you’re bringing camp to life. While Auburn faculty and staff lead daytime classes, counselors take over in the evenings, creating fun, high-energy activities, building connections with campers, and making sure every student feels welcomed into the Auburn family. You’ll be a mentor, leader, and role model, all while making memories you’ll talk about long after summer ends.
Why You’ll Love This Role
Every day is different, full of energy, teamwork, and fun
You’ll make a real impact on students discovering Auburn for the first time
Build leadership, communication, and problem solving skills that stand out on your resume
Work closely with other Auburn students and staff and form lasting friendships
Spend your summer immersed in Auburn spirit, creating moments campers will never forget
Pay rate/compensation: $11-$12/hr up to 20 hours during spring semester. $575 weekly stipend starting late May. Housing and meals provided while each camp is in session.
This isn’t just a summer job, it’s a chance to be part of something exciting, meaningful, and unforgettable.
Responsibilities
The Lead Counselor plays a key role in the success of Auburn Youth Programs (AYP) summer camps, ensuring that every session runs smoothly while creating an exceptional experience for campers. As the head of the camp team, the Lead Counselor oversees all activities, coordinates with campus partners, and provides leadership to other counselors. If you’re looking for a summer filled with leadership, fun, and making meaningful connections with students from across the U.S., this role is for you!
Key Responsibilities:
Prepare for Camp: Work in theAYPoffice during the spring semester to prepare for the summer camps, with the potential for extending into the fall semester.
Leadership & Supervision: Oversee all camp sessions and activities, ensuring everything runs smoothly while maintaining communication with counselors, Auburn faculty, staff, and other campus partners.
Collaborative Role: Work closely with the Academic Program Developer to ensure that curriculum and camp operations align seamlessly.
Counselor Support: Lead, support, and mentor counselors throughout the summer, providing guidance and stepping in when needed.
Hands-On Participation: Serve as an active participant in camp activities and as a role model for campers. Escort campers as needed to programs and activities, including dorm time, meals, curriculum sessions, recreation activities, and field trips.
Mentorship & Auburn Spirit: Welcome campers and guests to the Auburn family demonstrating the Auburn spirit, fostering a positive, engaging environment throughout the summer.
Supervise & Assist: Maintain supervision of campers during on-campus and off-campus sessions, including dining halls and overnight stays in dorms. Assist with check-in, check-out processes, distributing camp materials, and any logistical tasks required.
Regulatory Compliance: Ensure adherence to allAYPand Auburn University regulations regarding minors and housing.
Training: Attend counselor training prior to the start of the camps (tentatively scheduled for the week of May 18th).
Additional Responsibilities: Take on any other responsibilities as assigned, ensuring the camp operates smoothly.
The Lead Counselor must stay overnight, Monday – Friday (5 days, 4 nights), in provided on-campus housing every week from May 26th to July 17th excluding June 29 – July 3rd.
Other Perks:
Meet students and staff from across the U.S., creating lasting memories and friendships while working in an exciting, dynamic environment.
Meals are provided at The Edge, offering a convenient and enjoyable dining experience.
Overnight accommodations are provided during camp employment.
While you may be enrolled in asynchronous online courses during the summer, you may not take in-person or synchronous courses.
This is your chance to make a difference while gaining invaluable experience and enjoying all the fun Auburn Youth Programs has to offer!
For detailed job descriptions of all summer roles, visit our website: aub.ie/AYPJobs (https://www.auburn.edu/outreach/opce/auburnyouthprograms/aypteam.htm) .
Qualifications
Enrolled student at Auburn University for at least one year
Enrolled and taking classes during the semester of employment; or
Not enrolled in classes for the semester of employment, but enrolled in the previous semester and enrolled for the following semester.
Be in good academic standing
Be at least 19 years old on June 1, 2026, pass a background check, and possess a valid driver’s license
Why Work at Auburn?
Why should YOU consider student employment at Auburn University?
Gain valuable work experience! Student employment allows you to explore different interests, identify strengths, and make informed decisions about your future career goals.
Build your network! Interacting with faculty, staff, and fellow students can lead to valuable connections and potential mentors.
Make a difference! Have the satisfaction of knowing YOU are a part of providing the premier academic experience at Auburn and the life-changing work our students and employees perform.
Equal Opportunity Compliance Statement
It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. Please visit the Office of Equal Opportunity Compliance's website (https://auburn.edu/administration/eoc/) to learn more.