I will forever take the experience I gained from teaching and hanging out with campers wherever I go. I learned more about teaching in two months at Camp Chi than I have in two years of education classes and in an environment that was much more enjoyable.Josh A., Specialist, United States
Positions at Camp
Our staff are a diverse mix of ages and backgrounds brought together by their interest in working with children. Please review our various staff categories before applying for a job. If you would like a more specific job description, please contact the Camp Chi office at 847.763.3551 or email us.
Specialists/Activity Instructors
At Camp Chi, Specialists or Activity Instructors have a great mix of responsibilities. They provide instruction in an activity area where they have extensive experience. Usually they live in a cabin with campers, and also participate in some cabin activities and responsibilities. We are looking for instructors in art, athletics, cooking, water sports, swimming, water skiing, media, horseback riding, outdoor adventure and more. You can find a list of specific activities here.
Area Leaders
Area Leaders are senior, supervisory staff who oversee the operations of one of the activity areas in camp and manage the specialists that work in the area. Area Leaders generally teach throughout the day and also develop programs and curriculum. Applicants must be at least 21 years old and should have a strong background and experience in one of the following areas: Pool Director, Waterfront Director, Waterski Director, Arts Director, Performing Arts Director, Media Director, Ropes Course Director, Horseback Riding Director, Outdoor Cooking Director and Athletics Director.
Village Leaders
Village Leaders are senior, supervisory staff overseeing each age group (or village) at camp. Village Leaders are responsible for the adjustment and quality of life of each camper and staff member under their supervision; village programming; general camp administration; integration of Jewish culture; and staff evaluations. Village leaders are experienced camp people who demonstrate maturity, responsibility and creativity. Prior camp experience is a must. Applicants should be at least 21 years old.
Social Workers
Camp Social Workers provide resources and guidance to directors, village leaders, counselors and other staff about how handle campers’ emotional issues and group development. Applicants should be Social Workers or School Counselors committed to working with children in a communal living, outdoor setting. Four-week and Eight-week employment available.
Teen Trip Leaders
Experienced outdoor educators are needed to lead 14-16 year olds on the Pacific Northwest Adventure (PNW). Campers and staff begin their journeys at Camp Chi and then travel by bus to the west coast for camping, hiking, rafting and other wilderness adventures. (Most wilderness excursions are also staffed by certified, local outfitters.) Staff must be at least 21 years old and have an extensive camping background and experience working with teens.
Song Leader
Lead and teach American, Jewish and Hebrew songs in camp-wide song sessions and in small groups. Song Leaders also direct music specialties, assist with the all-camp play, sing at campfires, coordinate a camper jam band and host open mic programs. Must play guitar and/or keyboard. Knowledge of how to operate amplified sound systems is preferred but not required.
Program Manager
Along with the full-time staff, the Program Manager oversees the daily operations and logistics of camp programming. This position is an excellent start for someone with a camp background who is looking to gain additional experience in camp management. Applicants must be at least 21 years old, creative, organized and have a desire to work with a diverse group of people.
Nurses
Under the supervision of the Nurse Manager and volunteer doctors, Camp Chi’s team of 6-8 nurses provides basic health care and TLC to campers and staff. Nurses work daily shifts and also rotate to cover nights in the Health Center. Four-week and Eight-week employment available. Graduate nurses are encouraged to apply.
Communications Manager
The Communications Manager is responsible for coordinating summer online content, particularly uploading daily photos, writing news updates and managing parent letters. Applicants need strong computer skills and excellent writing skills. Ability to assist with social media management and creating video content is a plus. Opportunities to work with campers on communications projects are also available.
Camp Photographers
A camp photographer is an integral part of the camp communications staff, responsible for capturing and processing high quality images of all campers, activities, special events and facility. They will then edit and upload images to the camp website on daily basis for parents to see. Must have experience and enjoy working with digital photography. Photography students, hobbyists and professionals are encouraged to apply.
Office Assistants
Office Assistants are essential to the functioning of camp. Proficiency in general clerical duties and receptionist skills is required.
Babysitters
Babysitters provide care for children of staff members who have their families at camp. Four-week and eight-week employment available.
Senior Counselors
Counselors provide a positive and enriching Jewish community where campers can build self-confidence, self-esteem, independence as well as strong group relationships. Counselors live with 10-12 campers and make sure that their daily needs are met. They are also responsible for cabin and village programming and making sure that camp is a positive experience for all of their campers.
One-on-One Inclusion Counselors
Counselors work as one-on-one aides for Chi campers with disabilities through our partnership with Keshet, an organization the provides education and recreation programs for kids and teens. Prior experience and commitment to working with children, teens or young adults with disabilities is required.
Junior Counselors
Junior Counselors, staff entering 12th grade, work with campers under the guidance of a senior counselor. Junior Counselors are generally former Camp Chi campers and/or graduates of the SIT program.
Nursing Aides/Interns
A team of 4 Nurse Interns or Health Aides will support our Nurses and Camp Doctor providing care for the campers and staff. A great opportunity for nursing students to gain great hands on experience while enjoying camp. Most positions are 8 weeks, but 4 week options may be available. Preference to those that possess a current CNA. Prefer nursing student entering Sophomore – Senior year or recent graduate. Must be CPR certified. Previous experience working with children highly preferred. The ideal candidates will have the ability to work well with children and staff and have excellent communication skills.