Staff FAQs
Where do we begin?! Camp Sewataro has been providing its staffers with summer as it should be since 1960. This is so much more than just a summer gig; It is an opportunity to become part of a community that values Belonging, Exploration, Character, Kindness, and Spirit, where YOU MATTER. We get to have an outrageous amount of fun, gain the leadership skills and confidence that serve us not only at camp but out in the world, and earn competitive wages, all while making a difference in children’s lives. It doesn’t get much better! Visit What You’ll Gain to learn more!
Compensation varies based on the position, required certifications, experience, and length of contract. The anticipated pay range for each position is listed on its job posting. Your specific compensation will be confirmed in your employment offer before you accept the position.
The 2027 camp season begins on Monday, June 28th, and ends Friday, August 20th. Camp is closed on Monday July 5th. Staff Training takes place on June 5th, June 19th and June 20th. In addition, each staff member stays on two of the four section events (depending on your group assignment); these are super fun traditions that staff and campers look forward to each summer!
We offer 2 types of contracts at Sewataro. Applicants can work for either 4 weeks or 8 weeks. Our half summer contracts are offered only during the first 4 weeks or last 4 weeks of camp. Our reasoning is that consistency is best for our campers, and for our fellow staff members. Campers build strong connections with - and rely on - their counselors, and the best way to nurture those bonds is with a consistent presence.
We do however understand that 4 or 8 weeks may not be feasible for some, and in those cases we’d encourage prospective staffers to tell us your availability (and any potentially needed time off) in your application, so we can discuss it with you during your interview. We will try to accommodate your requests to the best of our ability.
We consider your interests, previous experience, age, certifications, availability, interview, and current staffing needs. We want to place each staff member where they can contribute successfully while continuing to learn and grow.
Your primary role will be discussed during the hiring process. Specific group, age-section, activity, or counselor-team assignments may be shared closer to the start of camp as enrollment and staffing plans are finalized. Because camp needs can change, we also ask staff to bring flexibility and a willingness to support the broader community.
Please arrive fresh and ready for camp each day! Most people prefer to wear tee shirts and shorts, as it does get hot during the day. Close-toed sneakers or rubber-soled shoes are required, as there is woodsy, rugged, and uneven terrain all around us. We recommend leaving anything you wouldn’t want to get lost or dirty at home (including jewelry). Group staff members will swim twice a day with their campers, so please wear a bathing suit* to camp, and bring your towel, sunscreen, and flip flops or crocs to wear at the waterfront (only). Activity staff may opt to swim on their lunch break, so feel free to bring a bathing suit and towel.
*Bathing suits: Please wear athletic, functional bathing suits. Acceptable bathing suits include a one piece, a tankini, or a two piece with a top that pulls over the head sports-bra-style, and with bottoms that provide full coverage, with no way to unhook, untie, or unzip. Other acceptable bathing suits include swim trunks that provide full coverage, and are fitted around the waist so that they won’t accidentally slip off.
While at camp we should be presentable in our appearance, and appropriately dressed. Tight or revealing clothing is inappropriate. Clothing should have no reference to alcohol, drugs, nudity or any vulgar language. Close-toed sneakers or rubber-soled shoes are required.
All staff are expected to ride a camp bus to and from work. Certain roles have exceptions, and staff who are 21 or older may be permitted to drive. Parking at camp is very limited, and details will be explained during the interview process.
Busing is free for staff and available from many local towns. One staff member per bus (age 18+) is hired as the Bus Monitor. If you’re interested in serving as a Bus Monitor,please email .
Our staff are supported every step of the way. Each team member works closely with a section supervisory team and has access to the Director team, Community Support Team, and fellow counselors for guidance. We provide ongoing training, regular check-ins, and open communication throughout the summer to ensure staff feel confident, supported, and successful in their roles.
We do not serve lunch at camp. You can bring a packed lunch from home (refrigerators are available). If you forget your lunch at home one day we can provide you with a sunbutter sandwich and some snacks for the day.
We hire on a rolling basis, which means applications are reviewed and positions are filled throughout the hiring season (Late October-June). Some roles—particularly Group Leaders, leadership, and specialized activity positions—may fill earlier than others, so we encourage you to apply as soon as you know your summer availability.
Working at camp is a great way to earn hands-on experience! We are happy to work with you and your school, to see if there is a way for you to earn internship credit (or classroom hours) through your job at camp.
You must have at least 4 weeks of experience working with children in some capacity (babysitting, tutoring, volunteering, CIT programs - we value it all!). If you have any questions about your eligibility, please give us a call (978-443-3100).
Staff training is the very best preparation for a summer of success! We’ll teach you everything you need to know in order to confidently hit the ground running - and know what to expect - from day one. Training topics include: Behavior management tricks and tips, “A day in the life”, emergency procedures, creating your self care plan, and many games, team building activities, and opportunities to socialize and meet new friends! In addition, there will be online training that will be sent to you in the spring.
Certification requirements depend on your position. Waterfront staff must hold or obtain the required lifeguarding, CPR/AED, and First Aid certifications before beginning work. Other positions may also require role-specific certifications or training.
The requirements for your position will be explained during the hiring process. When pre-camp certification opportunities are available through Sewataro, hired staff will receive information about dates and registration.
Getting started is easy! Just click Apply Now on our staff page and fill out the short application form. We’ll ask for a few details about you and your experiences, plus contact info for three references. After you apply, a member of our team will reach out to schedule an interview. From there, if it’s a match, you’ll receive an offer and all the info you need to get ready for summer at Sewataro!
Click here to complete the Staff Application
Our interviews are conversational and give us an opportunity to get to know you beyond your application. We’ll ask about your experience, interests, availability, comfort working with children, and what you hope to gain from the summer. We’ll also discuss the positions that may be the best fit for you.
You do not need to be a camp expert! Come prepared to talk honestly about yourself, share examples from your experiences, and ask any questions you have about working at Sewataro.
