Want more info about being Camp Ohio Staff?
Then this is the page for you!
Working at Camp
Play games, cook over the fire, have deep conversations under the stars, bring campers out of their comfort-zone... there's nothing more rewarding (or as fun) as working at Camp! A typical program day at Camp looks like:

          POLAR BEAR: Lifeguard at the pool where only the brave take a refreshing morning dip.
          Breakfast: pancakes, bacon, eggs
          RESTROOM CLEAN-UP: Supervise and assist counselors and campers with keeping the restrooms stocked & clean. 
          MORNING SESSIONS: Adventure, Waterfront, Nature, Living History. 
          Lunch: tacos, chicken tenders, hotdogs
          STAFF MEETING: Take a moment to check in with your camp-fam, review the next 24(hrs).
          AFTERNOON SESSIONS: Adventure, Waterfront, Nature, Living History. 
          OPEN SWIM: Lifeguard at the pool while it is open for anyone who wants to swim. 
          Dinner: marzetti, hamburgers, roast beef
          Occasional EVENING PROGRAMS: Outpost, camp store, night zipping.

Every day looks different and you will have the opportunity to have a go at scheduling. Click HERE to see a list of our class options, many of which you will be trained to teach!
Job descriptions
Reach out! Not sure which position(s) to apply for? Want to chat about the 2025 season before you submit your application? Contact Jaymie.
Find full job descriptions by clicking on the positions below.

Program Instructor
The best Program Instructors are enthusiastic, engaged, and caring. They are excited to participate in camp activities, get to know campers, not afraid of hard work and help make 4-H Camp Ohio an unforgettable experience for all.
The basics
  • At least 18 years of age; High School graduate, additional education preferred.
  • Desire and ability to work with children outdoors.
  • CPR, First Aid, Blood Borne Pathogens, and AED training to be completed by the first day of employment.
  • Lifeguard certification is highly preferred, but not required for the right candidate.
  • Must LOVE camp!!!

Cook
Our kitchen team is such a valuable asset to 4-H Camp Ohio and they go above and beyond to make our food service one of the best in the camp industry. The best Cooks are enthusiastic, can turn work into play and have high standards in what they produce.
The basics
  • Training and experience in cooking for large groups.
  • Ability to work well with others.
  • Knowledge of standards of food preparation and serving and kitchen procedures.
  • Ability to read menus, weights and measures.

Dishwasher
We couldn’t do all of this without our beloved “dishies”. This is the perfect first job, where you will develop skills and a work ethic that will stay with you for years to come. The best Dishies are enthusiastic, can follow directions and turn up the heat after meal times.
The basics
  • At least 14 years of age.
  • Ability to learn to do tasks as assigned.
  • Ability to accept supervision.
  • Ability to work well with others.
Employment dates
Program Instructors! We have two options: Seasonal and Summer. Program Instructors live at 4-H Camp Ohio for the duration of their employment, with time off. You'll enjoy in-camp rest time, staff breaks, and days off.
Hiring preference is given to those who can work the full season; however, you are not disqualified if you can only work for part of the summer. Indicate your availability on the application or Contact Us.

Seasonal: March - November
          Staff facilitates outdoor education programming, as well as workshops and retreats. Staff is paid a weekly rate.
Staff Training: May
          This comprehensive training is mandatory, on-site training is paid.
Summer: June - August
          Staff facilitates our 4-H county camping programs. US Staff are paid a weekly rate/International Staff are paid according to their contract.

We also have two options for Cooks and Dishwashers! Seasonal and Summer.

Seasonal: March - November
          Staff is paid a weekly rate.
Staff Training: May
          This comprehensive training is mandatory, on-site training is paid.
Summer: June - August
          US Staff are paid a weekly rate/International Staff are paid according to their contract.
Wages
4-H Camp Ohio pays a competitive rate for the camping industry and specific salary is based on qualifications and experience.

You may not get rich working at Camp, but you will make money (unlike an unpaid internship), and you'll save what you make. 4-H Camp Ohio provides lodging and all meals during sessions. Many staff members save by not spending on rent, food, laundry, WiFi, daily commute, weekends out, and other real-world expenses. All necessary adventure, recreation, outdoor education and food safety training will be provided in house.

The benefits of working at summer camp are immense! Keep scrolling to see "Why camp?" to learn more—and share it with your family and friends!
Why Camp?
Here are just a few of the reasons you should work at 4-H Camp Ohio this season (be sure to share this with anyone if they're skeptical)!

  • Develop skills that translate to any career. Communication, critical thinking, problem solving, leadership skills, conflict resolution, creativity, responsibility...these are skills you'll practice every day! Former staff tell us that during competitive interviews, it's their camp experience that sets them apart.
  • Connect with a vast alumni network. We have hundreds of Camp Ohio Alumni in fields like education, social work, healthcare, communications, business, engineering, media, design, and more—both in Ohio and around the world. Let us connect you with our network who already shares a valuable experience with you.
  • Get a great recommendation. Your Camp Directors will help you land your next job with a letter of recommendation that speaks to your unique gifts, skills, and what you add to the team. At camp, your supervisors will get to know you better than any boss you'll ever have!
  • Be part of an inspiring work environment. Camp allows us to become part of something bigger than ourselves. Looking for a job that values people, celebrates difference, and supports one another? You've come to the right place—and you're about to be an important part of it.
  • Become a role model. In an age of distraction, isolation, and anxiety, campers need camp now more than ever. By listening, encouraging, and simply being yourself, you'll become a beloved role model. Just wait until the campers thank you at the last night dance. Bring your tissues!
  • Build genuine relationships. Our staff consistently says this is the biggest benefit of 4-H Camp Ohio! You'll develop friendships based on trust, shared experiences, and lots of laughter. Get ready to be part of a supportive, non-competitive, judgment-free community that lasts far beyond the final day of camp.
  • You deserve some joy. Done with the grind? Want a place to reflect, be yourself, and have fun? Your job is to help campers have the best week of their lives—in return, the best summer of your life is guaranteed!

Contact Us

On the fence about applying? Looking to chat with a current or former staff member? Let's chat!

Email our Camp Manager, Jaymie, to get started.
[email protected]