Who to Recruit

Applicants with specialized skills are more easily matched with camps than those who have only general experience.

• Activity Counselors must hold relevant certifications, training, or demonstrate strong teaching experience in their specialty area. Many states require certification for certain activities (e.g., lifeguarding), which is why camps actively seek certified staff. However, many camps are willing to train enthusiastic candidates who lack formal certification.
• General Counselors support a wide variety of activities and camper needs.

Regardless of role, counselors must be:

• Open-minded, flexible, and patient – responsibilities vary widely by camp.
• Adaptable – duties can change daily and often involve multiple activities.
• Collaborative – ready to live and work closely with staff and campers.

Camps differ significantly in structure. For example, one camp may expect a counselor to spend the entire day teaching soccer, while another may split responsibilities between soccer and another activity. Some camps require counselors to live in cabins with campers, while others provide separate housing. This variety creates a diverse and exciting range of opportunities for international participants.

Real Examples of Camp Requests

Below are direct quotes from host camps, illustrating the diverse range of skills and qualifications they seek.

General Requirements

“To be eligible for a counselor position, individuals must be high school graduates or at least 18 years of age. Staff training begins on May 28th, and the last day of camp is August 2nd. We are a Christian summer camp and require all of our counselors to agree to our doctrinal statement, which can be found on our website.” “We are looking for male and female counselors who are open to working with adults and children with disabilities.”

Waterfront & Outdoor Adventure

“Swim instructors (males, age 21+), must be available June 15th–August 15th.” “Mature wilderness trip leaders who have, or can obtain, lifeguard certification prior to arrival.” “Activity Leaders (ideally 21+ with teaching and/or extensive experience): Archery, Barn Manager (21+ preferred), High Ropes/Climbing Wall, Sailing, Sailing Maintenance, Waterfront (must be 21+), Waterskiing, Wilderness.” “Counselors with activity experience – will assist Activity Leaders in Photography, Riflery, Sailing, Trapshooting, and Boat Driving.”

Sports

“We are hiring 21+ year olds, available starting June 9th and finishing August 15th. We are in need of: Swim Instructors / Lifeguards, Sports Coaches, Ceramics / Pottery Specialist, Archery Specialist, Woodworking Specialist, Mountain Biking Specialist, Gymnastics Specialist, Tennis Specialists, Farm / Equestrian Specialist.” “Boat Drivers, Soccer, Volleyball, Basketball, Dance, and Fitness Instructors.” “Sports are always great, especially if candidates also have other experience and interests — we’re looking for variety for sure!”

Arts & Creative

“Fine and Visual Arts: Hot Glass/Flameworking, Leatherworking, Metalworking/Metal Jewelry, Stone Carving, Woodworking, Basketry. Creative Arts: Videography (very good movie-making skills and/or Camp Videographer). Waterfront: Waterskiing Boat Drivers. Sports: Fencing. Other: Set Design / Stage Building, Pottery (kiln experience or formal ceramics study), Lampworking/Glass Blowing, Culinary (culinary school or commercial kitchen experience only). Music: Rock band experience – guitar, drums, keys, or bass.” “Boat Drivers, Soccer, Volleyball, Basketball, Dance, Arts (Painting, Drawing, Ceramics, Stained Glass, Silversmithing), Video, Photography (darkroom experience).”

Music & Performing Arts

“We are looking for male candidates. Always looking for musically gifted people to teach piano or guitar. Swimming experience is great. Archery interest is also valuable. Sports are great, especially when paired with other skills — we’re looking for variety.” “Music: Rock band (guitar, drums, bass, keys), plus opportunities for recording and performance coaching.” “We are seeking professional arts instructors, including guitar, musical theatre, drum, skateboarding, photography, and filmmaking. We also need staff who can lead camping trips. Ideally, candidates are 21+. We only hire women for direct service positions with campers.”

Leadership Roles

“For new international applicants, we are looking for candidates to fill Team Leader or Coordinator positions. Team Leaders are responsible for their group of campers, mentoring their counselors, and coordinating group logistics. Team Leader candidates don’t need previous camp experience but should be passionate about working with kids and willing to collaborate in a busy schedule. Coordinators serve in summer leadership roles, working closely with camp directors to ensure smooth operations — primarily camper experience and staff development. Coordinator candidates should have leadership experience and be comfortable with challenging conversations with both campers and staff.”