Different Types of Summer Camp Jobs
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At Camp Augusta, every role is infused with creativity, connection, and purpose. Whether you’re leading campers through tree-climbing adventures, hosting a whimsical evening program, or supporting behind the scenes, you’ll be part of a team that makes magic happen every day.
Want to explore roles like Master of Fun and Games, Oatmeal Slinger, or Evil Scientist Unicorn Wrangler? Apply to be a part of the Camp Augusta crew today.
When conjuring up the idea of a summer camp job, you likely imagine the stereotypical camp counselor: brightly-colored staff shirt, whistle, tie-dye bandana, impressive tan-lines, and the biggest smile you’ve ever seen. In general, the role of a counselor will be pretty consistent across the board, but there are many other positions and roles for those interested in working at a summer camp!
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Popular Summer Camp Jobs and Roles
Camp Counselor
As the heart of the camp, counselors guide campers, lead activities, and ensure their safety.
As a camp counselor, your primary responsibility is overseeing and caring for a group of children. Your daily tasks will involve being with them as they play, laugh, learn, struggle, and grow. You’ll ensure both their physical and emotional safety. In addition to supervising your campers, most counselors also teach activities. Some camps require you to specialize in one activity, while others train you to lead multiple classes. Evening programming is common, where you may serve as a chaperone, mentor, audience member, actor, or participant. Expect a full schedule from sunrise to sunset, and you’ll likely spend your nights with your campers in the cabin. If you need alone time, being a counselor might not be the best fit. However, if you’re eager to contribute, mentor, and support others, this role could be a fulfilling opportunity.
Camp Coordination & Leadership Roles
These positions are for experienced counselors who manage activities, staff, and camp operations.
Summer camps offer intermediate leadership roles, typically filled by experienced counselors with strong communication, organizational, and operational skills. These individuals manage activity schedules, lead training sessions, plan programming, and provide support where needed. Some camps hire leaders for specific programs like Equestrian, High Ropes, or Waterfront. Depending on the camp, these roles can be seasonal or year-round.
- Recreation & Activities Coordinators: These individuals plan and oversee exciting activities, ensuring safety and fun.
- Arts & Crafts Leaders: Creative individuals guide campers in artistic activities, from painting to woodworking.
- Special Activities Directors: Experts in fields like swimming or horseback riding, these directors ensure campers learn and have fun.
Camp Director
Every camp has at least one. The camp director provides the overarching vision and direction for the camp and is accountable for everything at camp. If the camp is a non-profit, the Director likely reports to a board of directors, and if privately owned, it may be the owner or someone hired by the owner/corporation to run the camp. If you are passionate about camp and wish to make a life of it, you may someday choose to seek a position as a camp director.
Camp Kitchen Staff
These team members prepare meals, ensuring campers are well-fed and happy.
If you enjoy working with a close-knit team and nourishing others, a camp kitchen job might be for you. Responsibilities include food prep, presentation, service, cleanup, and inventory. While prior kitchen experience can be helpful, it’s not always required. Camps vary in food quality, compensation, and staff involvement. Kitchen staff may work separately or join in camp activities. Expect long hours on your feet, often under tight deadlines. Look for a camp that matches your culinary interests and skills to get the most out of your summer experience.
Support Roles
These staff members help keep the camp running smoothly.
Support roles are essential for the smooth operation of a camp. These positions include tasks in maintenance, program development, administration, finance, HR, and parent communication. If you have skills in these areas, you can contribute to camp life while enjoying the outdoors. Support roles often involve working behind the scenes, offering more time for solo tasks or small team projects. If you prefer operational work over direct camper interaction, consider a support role at a camp.
- Camp Nurse: Nurses provide essential care, from routine medication to emergency services.
- Lifeguards: Vital for water safety, lifeguards monitor swimming activities to ensure safety.
- Groundskeepers: These staff maintain the campgrounds, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment.
Specialty Camps
Keep in mind that summer camps come in various types, each offering different roles. Whether you’re interested in athletics, emotional development, wilderness trips, or specialized areas like robotics or theater, there’s a camp that aligns with your interests. When searching for your perfect summer job, consider the camp’s focus to ensure a fulfilling experience.
Find Your Perfect Summer Camp Job
Camp Augusta stands out for its unique approach to summer camp, emphasizing personal growth, community, and a deep connection with nature. With a variety of leadership and specialized roles, we foster a collaborative environment where staff members play an integral part in creating memorable experiences. From program directors to kitchen staff, every position contributes to Augusta’s holistic approach, ensuring a fun, educational, and supportive atmosphere for both campers and staff. We value play, teamwork, personal development, and the opportunity for staff to grow alongside the campers.