4-H Summer Camp Program Staff

Summer Program Staff must be at least 18 years of age or older and preferred at least one year of college credits. They are seasonal, paid, full-time staff who live at camp and are responsible for daily programming and program areas. 

We are looking for summer staff who:

  • Have a desire and ability to work with youth in the outdoors for extended periods of time.
  • Have a willingness to discover, learn, and grow throughout their experiences with Nebraska 4-H Summer Camps.
  • Are willing to embody activities and habits that are associated with positive role models for campers.
  • Take experiences as learning opportunities and teachable moments.
  • Have a willingness to listen, learn, and be considerate of others.
  • Will be a part of a community built upon trust, caring attitudes, and enthusiasm.
  • Can be supervised by peers of close age.
  • Are patient and kind.
  • Will continually respect the institutions, patrons, people, and mission of camp.
  • Will contribute to the positive culture of camp.
  • Want to have an ABSOLUTE BLAST this summer!

Responsibilities

Summer program staff plan, direct and supervise daily programs and cabin activities. They actively carry out camp standards, policies, and procedures that lead to a quality and safe program. As a staff member, you will have the opportunity to help campers and Jr. counselors learn life skills and develop confidence as you facilitate: canoeing, tubing, swimming, rappelling, climbing, zip line, ropes course, shooting sports, arts, environmental education, campfires, backpacking, fishing, and a variety of other camp activities. Reference the program staff job description for detailed information on duties, expectations, and how performance will be evaluated.

Training

All staff members are required to be at every day and every session of staff training. This is to benefit you, the staff as a whole, and to ensure you receive all the required skills and knowledge to effectively create and maintain a positive and safe environment for campers and others at camp. 

Other Training or Certifications

Summer program staff do not need any special training, however, any applicant with prior experiences, certifications, or training in these areas are encouraged to apply:

  • Lifeguarding
  • CPR/First Aid
  • Wilderness First Aid
  • First Responder
  • EMT
  • Riflery (4-H, CMP, or NRA)
  • Watercraft Certifications
  • ACCT Certification

If hired, all program staff will receive American Red Cross Lifeguard/CPR/First Aid certification during staff training. Lifeguard training is highly encouraged, but not required. Staff will be required to complete the CPR/First Aid portion of training. If you cannot make it to this training, you must find an alternative resource to get CPR/First Aid Certified.

Qualifications

  • Desire and ability to work with children in the outdoors.
  • Ability to work cooperatively with other staff in a team-oriented environment.
  • Minimum of 18 years of age and preferred completed one year of college credits beyond high school.
  • We prefer candidates with college experience. Students of all college majors are encouraged to apply.
  • A background check will be completed to ensure there are not any past offenses or a record that would be in violation of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln or for 4-H Summer Camps and Centers.

Application Deadline

All applications received will be accepted until all positions are filled. You will be contacted by a 4-H hiring representative to schedule a Zoom interview.

Salary

Over the entire summer, program staff can earn $5,000-$6,500, which includes room and board, depending upon days off and camp schedules.

Camp Staff are paid at a daily rate – which will increase depending on certifications and responsibilities such as lifeguarding, van driver, health aid, lead staff, and returning staff. Starting pay for a 6-day week is $390 per week. Most staff make between $400 and $500 per 6-day week. Our typical summer includes 12 weekly camp sessions and paid staff training. All meals and cabin housing included for the entire summer.

Time Commitment

Summer program staff work full-time from mid/late-May to early August depending upon the site. Each week will have scheduled time off both during the week and one full day off per week. Unscheduled time off will need to be discussed in advance with your camp director and the appropriate paperwork submitted.

How to Apply

To apply, complete a 4-H Summer Camp Program Staff Application. Please reference the application instructions for more information. After your application is received, you will be contacted to set up an interview time.

We're Accredited!

Nebraska 4-H Camp programs are accredited by the American Camp Association! Learn why ACA-Accreditation matters.

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