Staff FAQ
Q&A About the Most Fun Summer Job
What is the hiring process?
Here’s how to get a job at our summer camp. You need to first fill out our online application. After filling it out, you’ll receive an email inviting you to schedule an interview. If the interview goes well, your references check out, and your background check is clear, the next step will hopefully be a job offer and a contract!
What are the dates for this summer?
June 9 - August 7, 2024
Supervisor training week begins on June 2. Lifeguard and Ropes training begins on June 3.
Our default is that staff work at camp for both sessions, but we realize that this might not be possible for everyone. We are flexible and do our best to accommodate date conflicts.
How does laundry work for staff?
Getting dirty is a central part of summer camp and getting clean again should be just as easy. During the summer, a schedule is set by bunk for laundry, which is done once a week. Each bunk staff has a separate laundry bag for the staff to have their laundry washed separately (not with the camper’s laundry), and they will get the clean laundry back the same day. There are washers, dryers, and laundry detergent in the staff house available to you as well.
Can I get mail while I’m at camp?
Receiving mail at camp is just as much fun for staff as it is for campers. Family and friends can send mail to the camp address, and they will be put in your cabin’s mail bin in the office. Amazon does deliver to camp.
Can I use my phone, computer, iPad, etc. at camp?
Most cell phones have reception at camp, and you are welcome to use them during your off periods when the campers are not around. Cell phones must be OFF and out of sight when you are around campers inside or outside of your bunk. Phones may not be taken to camper activities. No campers are allowed to use staff personal cell phones for any reason.
We have computers with internet access in the office available during time off for staff to use. We also have wireless internet throughout camp for those who choose to bring computers.
How much will I get paid?
When you choose to spend your summer at CYJ, we recognize that you’re making a commitment to us and our campers, and we want to invest in your personal and professional growth. Check out our Staff Benefits Package to learn more about our salary scale, information on our referral program, and all the benefits of becoming a staff member at CYJ.
All staff are paid at the end of their contract. There are options for cash advances should you need some of your salary before the completion of your contract.
What does Jewish observance look like at CYJ?
CYJ blends a mix of traditions, rituals, and philosophies, one we hope should make the greatest number of campers as comfortable as possible. While working for CYJ, we expect our staff to be open-minded and to further the values of the organization, even if you may not share identical values in your personal life.
What does time off look like for staff?
Being a counselor is a highly demanding (and rewarding) 7-day-a-week, 24-hours-a-day job, which is why time off is so important. Each session, you will have the opportunity to take two (2) non-consecutive days off (24 hours). There is also a 72-hour recovery period between the sessions for you to relax and re-energize for the next group of campers. Each day, staff members get an hour off as well in order to rest or deal with personal matters.
Can I bring my pets to camp?
While pets are technically not allowed, we can’t stop you from bringing imaginary pets. (We recommend a spaghettiger, a dangerous yet delicious companion.)
Can I drive my personal vehicle to camp?
You’re welcome to bring your car to camp (or truck, for that matter – we are in Texas, after all!) Staff vehicles must be registered at the camp office upon arrival to camp, at which time you will receive a parking pass to tag on your car for the summer. You may use your vehicle to drive yourself and/or take your friends with you out of camp for days off. No one may transport campers without the written permission of the camp director.
Can I have visitors while I’m working at CYJ?
It is always fun to show your family and friends how much fun you are having at CYJ – just be sure to make arrangements with the Camp Director well beforehand. We can only accommodate a limited number of guests at camp at a time, so our guests are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis.
I have piercings/tattoos. Is that ok?
Here at CYJ, we realize that role models come in all shapes and sizes, and some even have tattoos and body piercings. However, our staff is admired greatly by our campers and, as a result, they tend to mimic everything you do, say, and wear – including tattoos and piercings. Therefore, we request that while at camp, you cover them and do not bring attention to them when speaking with the campers. (We have made exceptions in RARE circumstances.) We ask that you please let us know during the interview if this will be an issue for you.
What is CYJ’s policy on drugs and alcohol?
The use, possession, or distribution of alcoholic beverages and/or drugs is not permitted on any part of camp property at any time and will result in immediate dismissal. This policy is as serious as it is uncomplicated.
How does medical insurance work at camp?
Not that it’s exciting to talk about, but if you have a work-related injury while you’re at camp, your medical expenses will be covered by CYJ’s workman’s comp. If it’s not work-related (for example, on your time off you decided to go skydiving and your chute didn’t open), your own carrier or your parents’ carrier covers the expenses.
How does staff transportation work?
We do our best to coordinate staff arrival and departure times at the beginning and end of the summer so that we can be efficient with our airport runs. If you are flying to camp, please consult the staff travel document located in your CampInTouch account before booking your flight.
If you need transportation at any point during the summer (not the first or last day of your contract), you may be responsible for additional transportation fees. Please keep in mind that ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft do not pick up at camp.
