Work at Wanakee
Wanakee staff members are hand-picked, background checked, and rigorously trained to provide service, leadership, and hospitality.
Staff receive extensive training on proper camper safety, leadership, and spiritual growth. We screen and hire staff from New England and around the world in order to create the best team possible and ensure the safest camping experience for your child. Many program and operations staff grew up at Wanakee, while others bring fresh perspectives, games, and songs that blend effortlessly into our traditions.
Whether new to Wanakee or a veteran of previous summers, all staff share a desire to positively impact the life of every young person who joins us for a day or a week.
Want to be on Wanakee's staff?
Wanakee is the best place to receive valuable training and hands-on experience that prepares you for life. Grow in your leadership qualities, self-confidence, and ability to work with varieties of people. Deepen your faith as God uses you to make a difference in the lives of others. Make friendships that last a lifetime.
Most staff alumni say: "That was the best job I’ve ever had!” This could be you.
Every staff member, regardless of role, is primarily concerned for camper care, safety and spiritual life. Considering this, all staff can expect to be asked to perform duties not under their specific job responsibilities. Teamwork and flexibility are essential.
Camp sessions last 3 to 6 days for campers ages 4-18. Our unique program is small-group based; relationships grow deep and life changes occur often. The primary goal is building a welcoming Christian community.
Schedule: Staff training begins in mid June. Some staff may begin their contracts earlier based on agreement with the Executive Director.
Weekly assignments depend upon individual camp session needs. Counselors may rotate into support positions. Staff receive at least 24 hours off each week.
Benefits: training, lodging, meals, staff shirt, laundry, first aid and CPR instruction. Some receive lifeguard or ropes training. Ask us how camp builds your résumé better than almost any other summer job.
Salaries for summer staff start at $340/week based on position & training. Staff returning to the same role receive a bonus. Staff receive a room and board package valued at over $3,500. Since basic needs are provided, most staff save more of what they earn compared with friends in other jobs.
Job descriptions
Program Staff
Operations Staff
Kitchen Manager (1)
Kitchen Staff (3)
Facilities Staff (2)
Media Staff (1)
Office Staff (1)
How to apply
Read the Wanakee Staff Application Letter
Participate in an interview.
Participate in staff training.
Begin the best job of your life.
Applications open mid December and are accepted through spring until positions are filled. Applying early ensures your choice of positions is still available. Returning Staff from the 2024 season, apply here.
Equal employment opportunity
Wanakee provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. In addition to federal law requirements, Wanakee complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the camp has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
Wanakee expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of Wanakee’s employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including discharge.