Recreation Programs Assistant and Camp Counselor (Summer)

Job Description

Job Description

Experience an unforgettable summer at Interlochen, where creativity thrives in the heart of nature! Join our vibrant community for Interlochen Arts Camp 2026, where passionate individuals come together to make art, make friends, and make lifelong memories. In the serene and rustic setting of northern Michigan, you'll inspire the next generation of artists while embracing the beauty and challenges of wilderness living. Embrace the magic and make a lasting impact!

Position Overview

Join us in the summer of 2026 and help us continue the legacy of fostering creativity, nurturing talent, and celebrating the individual artistic journey at Interlochen. We are seeking energetic and dependable Recreation Program Assistants who embody our core values and are committed to nurturing young artists. As a Recreation Program Assistant, you'll play a major role in facilitating the day-to-day recreational electives that our junior and intermediate campers select. You will also be responsible for ensuring the well-being, safety, and personal growth of your group of campers while assisting our Arts program and fully immersing yourself in the unique environment that only a summer camp can offer. This unique role combines mentoring, leadership, and creativity, making it an exciting opportunity for individuals who are passionate about both youth mentorship and development and the arts.

What You Get To Do

• Maintain the Dennison Center for Recreation's operating hours (with assistance from the Associate Director of Wellness)
• Live in a cabin with campers and serve as the primary caretaker on the counselor's one day off
• Facilitate day-to-day recreational activities for campers
• Supervise and care for a group of campers, ensuring their safety and well-being throughout the camp session
• Create a positive and inclusive cabin environment that fosters a sense of belonging, encourages teamwork, communication, and personal growth
• Plan and facilitate age-appropriate, engaging activities and games for campers within the cabin group
• Share a living environment with campers ranging in age from 8-18 years old
• Assist with facility preparations and maintain a clean cabin throughout the summer

What You Get

• Compensation: $3,000
• Meals and on-campus lodging
• 10% tuition discount for Discovery Camp or 50% Interlochen Arts Camp for dependents
• 20% discount for tickets to most summer concerts.
• 15% discount on merchandise from Scholarshop and food/beverages from Melody Freeze

Camp Counselor Info Session

We're hosting a live webinar on Wednesday, April 29, from 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. EST to share details about the role, life at Interlochen, and what to expect as a Camp Counselor. This is a great opportunity to ask questions and get a glimpse into the unforgettable experience of working with us.

To register for the webinar, click here: -tBOA

We look forward to connecting with you!

What You Need

• Availability 6/16/2026 - 8/10/2026
• Prepared to live in a nature cabin setting. While we offer accessible housing accommodations, please note that due to the rustic nature of our camp, these options are limited.
• Physically able to assist with preparation, hauling of equipment, cleaning and maintenance of camp division facilities and spaces
• Exhibit outstanding organizational skills
• Strong leadership skills
• Recreation and Waterfront staff must have the ability to effectively engage in appropriate communication (verbal and non-verbal) with students and other staff.
• Manage emotions appropriately and professionally in high-stress situations
• Daily duties will be both inside and outside regardless of weather
• Ability to function effectively and work cooperatively with peers
• Commitment to self-care (adequate sleep, physical exercise, nutrition, mental acuity)
• Self-advocacy skills to seek assistance from others when facing difficulty
• Manage multiple commitments and responsibilities to ensure deadlines are met
• Outdoor Education background a plus
• May be required to drive an Interlochen vehicle and so must be eligible through Interlochen's process
• Current CPR and First Aid certifications (or willingness to obtain them before the camp starts)
• Perform your duties both inside and outside, rain or shine
• Work cooperatively with your peers and divisional leadership
• Manage self-care and maintain personal physical and emotional stamina, so you can take care of others (adequate sleep, activity, nutrition, mental acuity, managing emotions)
• Maintain physical and emotional stamina
• Commit to inclusion and acceptance of others
• Possess the ability to think on your feet and manage emergent situations should they arise

Required Items to Upload on Your Application:

• Resume
• Cover Letter

What to Expect about Camp Life

• Rustic Living: You'll be living in a dorm or nature cabin setting, surrounded by the beauty of northern Michigan. Wi-Fi and air conditioning are not provided in the nature cabins, encouraging a true disconnect from the digital world and a deeper connection with nature and those around you.
• Embrace the Outdoors: The camp is nestled in a wilderness area, so expect to encounter wildlife and insects as part of the experience. Embracing the natural environment is key to enjoying your time here.
• Outdoor Work Environment: Many of your duties will involve working outdoors, often for extended periods, so being comfortable in various weather conditions is important.
• Community and Camaraderie: You'll be part of a tight-knit community where collaboration, creativity, and support are at the forefront. The connections you make here will be lifelong.

About Interlochen

Interlochen Arts Camp has been a haven for creative talent for nearly a century. Our summer camp is a vibrant, transformative experience where young artists from diverse backgrounds come together to explore, learn, and grow. We offer a range of programs spanning music, visual arts, theatre, dance, creative writing, film & new media, and interdisciplinary arts, providing a platform for every artist to thrive.