Summer Camp 2027 Position of Interest: Activity Specialist
Activity Specialist Position at Summer Camps
Activity specialist positions at summer camps are some of the most versatile and rewarding seasonal roles in the industry. As an activity specialist, you’re the expert behind one of camp’s signature programs — whether that’s sports, arts, theater, climbing, sailing, archery, dance, or any other area. Sleepaway camps, day camps, and specialty residential camps all depend on activity specialists to deliver high-quality, age-appropriate programming that keeps campers engaged and inspired all summer long.
A typical activity specialist plans daily lessons, leads group sessions across multiple age groups, supports cabin counselors during free time, and mentors junior staff in their area of expertise. Many co-ed camps blend specialist responsibilities with cabin counselor duties, while larger overnight camps hire dedicated specialists who focus solely on their program area throughout the summer camp season.
The position is generally a full-season commitment running 7–9 weeks including staff training. Activity specialists are expected to bring deep skills in their craft, strong communication with campers, and the patience to teach across a wide range of experience levels. Many residential camps offer paths into senior specialist roles, program leadership, and even director-track positions over multiple summers.
If you’re passionate about your craft and love sharing it with kids, this is a fantastic position. Apply for activity specialist positions at summer camps to spend the season teaching what you love, mentoring eager young learners, and joining one of the most welcoming professional communities you’ll ever find.
You’ll plan and lead daily sessions in your program area — sports, arts, waterfront, ropes, music, or another specialty. You’ll teach skills, ensure safety, manage equipment, and create memorable experiences at the sleepaway camp throughout the summer camp season.
Certifications depend on your area. Waterfront specialists need lifeguard certs; climbing and ropes specialists need facilitator training; archery typically requires USA Archery credentials. Most residential camps help you obtain or renew certs during staff training.
Specialists are program experts who lead specific sessions; counselors live in cabins with campers. At many overnight camps, staff are hired as “specialist-counselors” who do both — teaching their specialty during the day and supporting cabin life at night.
Pay is competitive and commensurate with experience and certifications. Overnight camps include room, board, and laundry alongside salary, which adds meaningful value to the overall summer camp package beyond the base figure.
Yes — many co-ed sleepaway camps hire international specialists through J-1 programs like Camp America, CCUSA, and Camp Leaders. These programs handle visa sponsorship and placement at participating summer camps.
Currently there is nothing available for the position: Activity Specialist for summer 2027. Please check back later!
