BUNAC USA: Summer Camp Counsellor

Summer Camp USA

Spend the summer getting paid to do what you love, working as a Camp Counsellor in America with BUNAC. Earn a camp salary, with meals and accommodation included, plus 30 days either side of your camp job to travel around the States.

Why Summer Camp USA?

Between June and August each year, Camp Directors hire 18-30 year olds from all over the world to work for 9-12 weeks at camp. Located from Cali to Connecticut, it’s one of the best ways to fund your summer overseas.

You’ll get to live in amazing locations, meet people from around the world and make a real difference in the lives of children and young people.

How it works

From coaching soccer to teaching crafts, camp is the chance to turn your passion into a paid summer job. You’ll have a job secured before you go, working as a General Counsellor, Activity Specialist, Additional Needs Counsellor, or in a hybrid role where you do a bit of everything.

As an older sibling, role model and key part of camp life, you’ll help campers have a safe, fun and unforgettable summer. At the same time, you’ll build leadership, teamwork, communication and problem-solving skills that future employers will love.

Who can go?

This programme is open to most international applicants aged 18-30, and you do not need to be a student to apply. It is designed for applicants who need J1 visa sponsorship to work at camp in the USA, so U.S. passport holders are not eligible.

Applicants must:

• Be aged 18-30
• Be eligible for a J1 cultural exchange visa
• Be available to work at camp for 9-12 weeks during the summer
• Have some childcare, youth work, coaching, teaching, mentoring, or activity-leading experience

This experience does not need to be formal. It could include volunteering, sports clubs, tutoring, babysitting, helping with younger siblings, or supporting younger groups.

All our Camp Crew have worked at camp themselves, so they’ll guide you through the visa, embassy and hiring stages step by step.