Seasonal Outdoor Education & Program Staff — Residential Summer Camp

Organization: VFW Camp Trotter Location: Newaygo, MI (Bills Lake) — on-site residential Employment type: Seasonal, full-time (live-in) Dates: Training June 14–July 3 or June 21–July 3 (role-dependent). Camp sessions July 5–Aug 8, 2026. Compensation: $400–$750 per week depending on role; room, board, and all meals provided; certification/experience bonuses available. https://vfwcamptrotter.org/default.asp 

About us VFW Camp Trotter is a nonprofit residential summer camp on Bills Lake in northern Michigan. In 2026 we’re launching a refreshed outdoors-focused program for campers ages 7–12 that emphasizes outdoor education, hands-on skills, environmental stewardship, and community-building. While we prioritize military-connected families, our program is open and welcoming to all youth.

Position summary We're hiring multiple seasonal, live‑in staff to plan and deliver outdoor education and recreational programming, supervise youth, and support camp operations. Open roles include Camp Counselors, Waterfront staff (lifeguards), Program & Activities leadership, Food Services, Facilities, and Medical staff. Candidates with conservation, environmental education, naturalist, or outdoor leadership experience are strongly encouraged to apply.

Key responsibilities

• Lead daily outdoor education activities (nature study, orienteering, ecology, stewardship projects).
• Supervise and mentor cabin groups of campers (ages 7–12) during activities and residential living.
• Support waterfront programming (swim instruction, canoeing) and enforce aquatic safety.
• Assist with habitat stewardship projects, trail maintenance, and low-impact camp practices.
• Teach hands-on skills (basic outdoor living, Leave No Trace principles, campcraft, nature journaling).
• Participate in meal support, facility upkeep, and all-camp evening programs as scheduled.
• Complete training and follow health, safety, and emergency protocols.

Required qualifications

• Minimum age 17 (varies by position).
• Comfortable living on-site in rustic camp setting for duration of season.
• Energetic, reliable, comfortable working with children, and able to work outdoors in variable weather.
• Ability to lift ~50 lbs and be on your feet for extended periods.
• Must pass background check.

Preferred qualifications

• Experience in outdoor education, environmental science, conservation, or youth programming.
• Certifications: Lifeguard, CPR/First Aid, Wilderness First Aid/Responder, or relevant teaching credentials.
• Familiarity with Leave No Trace, trail/grounds maintenance, ecological interpretation, and group facilitation.
• College coursework or degree in environmental education, biology, recreation, or related fields.

Compensation & benefits

• Weekly pay varies by role (Camp Counselors $450 + bonuses; Assistants $400 + bonuses; Facilities $500; Directors & Medical Officer $675–$750).
• Bonuses for certifications, degrees, veteran status, and returning staff.
• Room and board, all meals provided; paid staff training; professional development in outdoor education and youth leadership.

Location & schedule

• 5566 E 86th St, Newaygo, MI (Bills Lake).
• Training: mid‑June. Camp sessions: five one-week sessions July 5–Aug 8. Staff remain on-site for training and session dates.

How to apply Email resume and required references to Garrett Sieloff: camptrotterdirector@vfwmi.vet. Please state the position you’re applying for in the subject line. Applications reviewed on a rolling basis; video interviews will be scheduled. Proof of certifications required at offer. https://vfwcamptrotter.org/default.asp?nid=14008 

Equal opportunity VFW Camp Trotter is nonreligious and welcomes applicants and campers of all backgrounds. Military affiliation not required.