Staff FAQs for Camp Marimeta

All
Staff FAQ

What is the pay?

Our staff pay is competitive within the camping industry. We want to be upfront; as an independently run camp, we can’t compete with the pay of an hourly job or from a large company. But we’re guessing you’re here because you are looking for something beyond the pay; perhaps the leadership and problem-solving skills you’ll walk away with, the knowledge of having an impact on the next generation of young leaders, and ability to spend your summer in one of the healthiest places in the country, mentally, physically and emotionally. Room and board (3 meals a day, 7 days a week) is included, and we provide a travel reimbursement in addition.

How old do I have to be to be a counselor?

Counselors need to be 18 years or older (except for our Junior Counselors who were previously campers). Ideally, you also have a year out of high school already – whether that be work, school, etc. but we do consider graduating seniors in high school too.

Where do Marimeta staff and counselors come from?

We have staff from around the world! Although the majority of our counselors are American, many come from as far away as England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Mexico, Colombia, and many other countries. We believe having staff from overseas creates a priceless aspect to camp. We are very proud of our international contingent and diversity.

Do you hire male counselors?

We do employ men as activity instructors, on our maintenance team, in our office or on our kitchen staff!

What training is involved for counselors?

Staff are required to arrive at camp a week before the campers to participate in our staff training. Our training includes hands-on, experiential learning including content from camp professionals and speakers. This is an essential ingredient in becoming the best counselor you can be! There is ongoing training throughout the summer, as well as weekly meetings.

Will I receive any time off?

Yes! Camp is definitely more immersive than any other job which is why time off is so crucial for resetting and getting some time to yourself. You will get one day off (8:00am – 12:45am) and one night off (from 6:00pm – 12:45am) per week during the camping session as well as some time off during staff training. During regular activity days, you will get an activity period off per day, and we try to build in more if possible. The first and last few days of camps are different, and time-off is limited during this time.

Do I need any certifications to work at camp?

Not necessarily. We offer lifeguard training, high ropes course training and boat driver training for those interested in learning! These are certifications we offer during pre-camp. Other certifications are certainly a bonus and some qualify for additional pay so please let us know what they are.

How do I get to camp?

Staff typically get to camp in one of two ways; either by flying to Chicago O’Hare where we will pick you up and drive to camp, or by driving yourself. We have a (small) parking lot if you choose to bring your car to camp for the summer. We will work with you to coordinate your travel to camp!

What can I expect from this role?

To meet incredible people who are dedicated to children.
To make some of the best friends I will ever have.
To learn a lot about myself, others, and how to work with children and adults.
To teach new skills.
To work very hard.
To have fun.
To try new activities – and sometimes teach them.
To experience living in a group setting.
To be relied upon.
To be outdoors.
To do some of the most embarrassing things I have ever done… and surprisingly, enjoy it.
To laugh.
To cheer up a homesick camper.
To feel overwhelmed at times.To ask for help.
To be asked for help.
To be extremely tired at times.
To challenge myself and others.
To feel that the money that I earn could never quite adequately pay me for all that I do
To look forward to time off and then miss my campers when I’m away from them.
To be needed.
To make a difference in the lives of children.
To encourage and motivate others.
To make mistakes.
To put others’ needs ahead of my own.
To work with others who are not as dedicated as I am.
To work with others who are extremely dedicated.
To grow as a person.
To be part of a team.
To sound like a parent occasionally.
To plan programs and events.
To do things I never would have thought I’d be able to do, or be capable of doing so well.
To miss home and family.
To follow rules – even when sometimes I don’t agree with them.
To watch beautiful sunsets.
To be patient.
To be a leader.
To make memories that last a lifetime.

What should I not expect?

To be on vacation.
To be bored.
To have luxury accommodations.
To have a lot of privacy.
To have a lot of personal time.
To eat gourmet food.
To have things always go according to schedule.
To have my own needs met all the time.
To know what is going on in the outside world.
To ever forget my outstanding camp experience.

What if I have more questions?

Please feel free to email or call us at any time! You are crucial to our campers having a phenomenal summer, and we are here to help always! You can email the assistant director, Emily at emily@marimeta.com