Types of Summer Camp Jobs
A summer camp is a great place to work over the summer if you have the time and a good resume. Most people assume that if you are going to work at a summer camp, you are going to become a camp counselor. But there are many other jobs to take on at summer camps. Which job best suits you?
The most obvious job choice is the camp counselor. Camp counselors should be peppy and energetic. This is not a job for someone who likes to sleep in or does not feel willing to participate in the camp activities. The camp counselor also probably has the most responsibility. Counselors take care of the children enrolled at the camp and are responsible for the health and safety of every camper. Counselors must also be ready to deal with the emotional needs of campers and be prepared to work with children all day. This is a highly rewarding, highly demanding job.
If you would like to be a counselor but are not sure you can handle the pressure, many summer camps will also give jobs to counselor trainees. These counselors in training have many of the same experiences as regular counselors: interaction with kids, participation in camp activities, etc. Counselors in training, however, can be partnered with counselors so that they do not have to accept the full responsibilities of a counselor. They will learn all of the tricks of the trade without the pressure. This job is a great option for someone who is not so confident in his or her childcare capabilities, but still wants the full camp experience.
If you are organized and have creative planning skills, you might consider becoming a program director. Program directors are the backbone of the summer camp and influence the camp curriculum and activities. They are often responsible for observing and influencing the behavior of camp counselors. They do not react with the kids as much as the counselors, but they are likely to be paid more. Directors also must be on duty at all hours in case of an emergency, but those hours are often spent away from the hustle and bustle of camp business.
Many summer camps also have food service jobs. These jobs require early hours and lots of hard and dirty work. Cooks at most camps will prepare the food, serve it, and clean up after. But between meals, the time of the kitchen staff is often completely free. They have to react with the children very little and, depending on what camp you apply for, kitchen staff sometimes will be paid more than the counselors.
These are not the only jobs that exist at summer camp. But it is evident that camp counselors are not the only ones who work at summer camps. Take a close look at applications for summer camps, because you might just find the perfect job for you.
