Why Work for a Summer Camp?

Does the idea of sitting at a desk all day make you feel physically sick? Are you happiest when spending time outside, being active, with other people? Do you enjoy working with a team of supportive, like-minded people? Are you a student looking for a seasonal job that is both enjoyable and will make a good addition to your resume?

If the answer to any of those questions is "yes," then a job as a camp counselor might be the right fit for you. As a member of a summer camp staff team at a place like Siegel JCC, you'll get to experience a truly unique opportunity to grow as a leader and a person—while also having the time of your life. 

Still curious about what it's like to work at a summer camp? Here, we've outlined some of the biggest benefits of being a camp counselor:

• You'll build your leadership potential. Does anyone really know the true meaning of leadership until they've tried to get a group of children to move in the same direction?
  
  Jokes aside, there's arguably no better place to grow your leadership skills than in summer camp jobs. As a camp counselor, you'll need to learn how to motivate your assigned campers, work effectively with other staff members, and communicate effectively with parents and management. And, as a role model for both campers and other staffers, you'll be asked to set a positive example for everyone you interact with.
  
  
• You'll get to spend time being active outside. Camp JCC takes place predominantly outside, meaning you'll have no shortage of fresh air and sunshine. Regular activities include swimming, outdoor games, hiking on nearby nature trails, field trips, and more. It's the perfect job for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, physically active position. 
  
  
• You'll get paid to have fun. It's said that the best kind of work is work that feels like play. As a counselor, however, you won't need to pretend—much of your work will be play. Each day, you'll get to experience activities and field trips alongside your campers. From water parks to aquariums to games to mini golf, the highly varied nature of Camp JCC's programming (and the fact that you'll be spending most of your time with school-age children!) means there will never be a dull moment.
  
  
• You'll learn important skills. Working as a camp counselor is fun, but it's also highly educational. Depending on your desired career trajectory, spending your summers at Camp JCC can be an excellent opportunity to build your resume or grow your professional experience.
  
  For example, as a camp counselor you'll be responsible for supervising the health, safety, and activity of the campers in your charge. You'll also receive on-the-job training on how to handle emergencies quickly and calmly. And while being goofy and energetic with campers is allowed (even encouraged!), you'll also need to maintain a professional  and authoritative demeanor when interacting with parents or outside personnel. Counselors at Camp JCC attend weekly staff meetings where they're encouraged to share feedback on how to improve camp experience. They also work with specialists and their supervisors on planning and preparing for activities.
  
  
• You'll build relationships. Being a camp counselor has a lot of perks, but arguably the best one is the bond you'll form with your campers and your fellow staff members. Over the course of the summer, you'll get to watch your campers open up, form friendships, and grow as people. Veteran camp counselors have stated that their favorite part of their experience was seeing the same group of campers return year after year, and watching them grow in the process.
  

Camp JCC is hiring for Summer 2023 positions! If you're looking for a truly unforgettable summer job, check out our available positions today. Members of the Camp JCC team can look forward to a dynamic, vibrant experience each and every day while working on a team of kind, collaborative individuals. Contact us for more information or submit an application today—we can't wait to work with you!

The J is a vibrant, inclusive community center with offerings for members of all ages, backgrounds, and faiths. Members enjoy access to our well-equipped fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, and group exercise classes, while children and teens benefit from a variety of programs from preschool and early childhood care to after-school care and summer camp. Whatever you're looking for, we've got something for you. Contact us today to discuss joining with a membership, or consider donating to support our programs!