Work at YMCA Camp Immokalee
Here’s the truth: working at Camp Immokalee is hard. You’re going to be tired, you’re going to be pushed, and there will be days when you wonder why you signed up. But here’s the other side of that truth—there are also days when you’ll watch a shy camper break out of their shell, when you’ll laugh until you cry with people who feel like family, and when you’ll leave camp realizing you’ve grown just as much as the kids have.
If you’re looking for a job where you coast through shifts, camp isn’t it. But if you’re up for a job where you’ll come out stronger, more resilient, and more connected, then keep reading. Camp Immokalee could be for you. Apply now to join our team and see what you’re made of.
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What We’re Hiring For
We’re looking for team members who are ready to jump in, work hard, and make a real impact. Positions available include:
- Summer Camp Staff: Cabin Counselors, Day Camp Counselors, Kitchen Assistants, and Program Specialists.
- Waterfront Staff: Lifeguards and Waterfront Coordinators.
- Activity Staff: Ropes Course Instructors, Archery Specialists, and more.
- Leadership Roles: CIT (Counselor-in-Training) Coordinators and Unit Leaders.
Each role comes with its own unique challenges and rewards, but all of them require energy, dedication, and a love for working with kids.
A Glimpse into Camp Life
Every day at Camp Immokalee is packed with activity, connection, and a bit of chaos. You’ll wake up early, rally your campers, and lead them through adventure-filled days that include everything from ropes courses to arts and crafts. It’s fast-paced and sometimes exhausting, but it’s also filled with moments that remind you why you’re here.
Curious about a full day at camp? Check out our Daily Life page for an hour-by-hour breakdown of what a typical day looks like.
What You Get
We know camp is demanding, so here’s what you can expect in return:
- Pay That Reflects the Work: Earn a minimum of $300 per week (stipend) or $15/hour for hourly roles.
- Room and Board: Overnight staff enjoy free housing and meals, so you can focus fully on the camp experience without living expenses.
- Certifications and Skills: Gain valuable certifications, including Lifeguard, CPR, Ropes, Archery, Rifle, Pottery, and Sailing.
- Breaks: You get two hours off each day plus a longer break from Saturday around 2 PM to Sunday at 11 AM.
- Chaco Pro Deal: Through our partnership with ACA, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts on Chaco sandals, so your camp feet can stay as cool (and comfortable) as you are.
Camp Culture & Community
At Camp Immokalee, you’re joining more than just a team—you’re joining a community. Camp bonds run deep, from late-night laughs with co-staff to shared victories with campers. It’s not just a job. It’s a place where you’ll build friendships that last well beyond summer.
Having existed since 1909, we have a large community of alumni and families with experience in all types of careers. We’re here to help connect you with people who can help set your future up for success.
Camp on a Resume – How Camp Immokalee Sets You Apart
Working at Camp Immokalee builds skills and experiences that employers love to see. Here’s exactly how to turn your time at camp into resume gold, with resume-ready phrases that make your experience stand out.
Leadership and Decision-Making
Resume Ready Language: “Led a group of 10-15 campers daily, making real-time decisions to ensure safety, engagement, and personal growth.”
At camp, you’re responsible for creating a positive environment, guiding campers through activities, and adapting to their individual needs. Employers recognize camp leadership as a true test of managing responsibility and showing initiative.
Teamwork and Collaboration
Resume Ready Language: “Collaborated with a team of 20+ staff members to plan and execute group-wide activities, fostering communication and a positive camp culture.”
Working at camp means constant teamwork. You’ll coordinate with other staff members, support each other, and adapt to group needs—skills essential in almost any career. Employers want candidates who can work well with diverse teams, and camp experience proves you can.
Problem Solving and Adaptability
Resume Ready Language: “Resolved daily challenges in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment by thinking creatively and adapting quickly.”
From handling unexpected weather changes to helping a camper manage homesickness, camp life throws unique challenges at you every day. Showing that you can think on your feet and adapt to changing situations demonstrates resilience and problem-solving skills—qualities highly valued by employers.
Event Planning and Project Management
Resume Ready Language: “Planned and led group activities, balancing safety, timing, and engagement to create impactful experiences for campers.”
Whether it’s organizing an evening activity or leading a themed event, you’re constantly managing projects and planning events at camp. This experience showcases your ability to handle logistics, anticipate needs, and manage details—all crucial skills in project management and event planning.
Communication and Conflict Resolution
Resume Ready Language: “Communicated effectively with different stakeholders fostering an inclusive environment and resolving conflicts quickly and empathetically.”
Working with kids requires patience, empathy, and clear communication. As a counselor, you’ll learn to mediate disputes, address concerns, and communicate positively—skills that translate directly to professional environments where clear, constructive communication is essential.
Risk Management and Safety Protocols
Resume Ready Language: “Ensured safety by implementing risk management protocols and following established safety procedures in high-energy environments.”
Safety is a top priority, especially when working in activities like ropes courses or waterfront areas. Experience in risk management and safety protocols shows employers that you’re responsible, attentive to detail, and capable of handling high-stakes situations.
Certifications and Specialized Skills
Resume Ready Language: “Certified in Lifeguard Training, CPR, Archery, Ropes Course Facilitation, and more, with hands-on experience in real-world settings.”
Certifications in areas like lifeguarding, ropes courses, and archery are valuable credentials that can set you apart. These certifications prove that you’ve developed specialized skills, which can be particularly beneficial in fields like education, recreation, and public safety.
Internship Opportunities
Are you a student? Many camp roles align perfectly with internships, especially for fields like education, psychology, social work, hospitality, and outdoor recreation. If you’re interested in structuring your summer as an internship, let us know—we’re happy to work with you and your academic advisor to ensure the experience meets your school’s requirements. Camp Immokalee can help you gain hands-on experience, potentially earn college credit, and develop a robust resume that sets you apart.
The Details You Need to Know
Screening Requirements
To ensure the safety and well-being of our campers and staff, all employees must pass a Level 2 background check and undergo a drug test before beginning their role. We take these precautions seriously to maintain a safe and positive environment for everyone at Camp Immokalee.
Mandatory Staff Training
All staff attend Staff Training from May 25-31, with optional additional certifications the week before, from May 18-24. This is your chance to get trained, bond with your team, and prepare for the summer.
Summer Sessions
Camp Immokalee runs from June 1 through August 9. Sessions go from Sunday to Saturday, and while we encourage staff to work as many weeks as possible, we also know everyone needs rest. You can choose the sessions that work best for you, though we give priority to those who can work longer. And we encourage everyone to take at least one week off to recharge.
Support You Can Count On
We know camp life is intense, so we’re constantly working to make the experience better for staff. We’ve hired cleaning staff, pre-planned activities, and set up support systems so that you can focus on making an impact with your campers. Our goal is to give you the tools and support you need to thrive.
Ready to Join the Adventure?
If you’re looking for an easy summer, this isn’t it. Camp life asks a lot from you, every single day. But if you’re up for the ride, if you’re ready to make memories, build connections, and walk away with stories that last, then Camp Immokalee might just be the best decision you make this year.
Apply Now and let’s make this summer unforgettable.
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