Beautiful Camp Arcadia
Beautiful Camp Arcadia

🌲 Join the Legacy at Camp Arcadia! Make the world better and more beautiful in Summer 2026!

Camp Arcadia

Currently recruiting for the season from June 5th, 2026 to August 19th, 2026.

For 109 years, Camp Arcadia has been a cornerstone for empowering girls. Join a global community where a summer job becomes a professional springboard. Mentor campers ages 7–17 while mastering leadership, conflict resolution, and decision-making—skills that stick with you for life. Build your resume, share your talents, and make an impact in a place that feels like home.

Located on 365 wooded acres in the stunning Sebago Lake region of Western Maine, we provide a sanctuary for developing self-confidence, life skills, and a deep connection to the outdoors.

Location
Maine
Season
Summer
Staff size
70
Housing
Whether included in the compensation package or provided at a cost, housing is provided for staff.
Housing details
Housing options vary based on role and responsibility at camp. Majority are shared rustic cabins and the cabin counselors enjoy lake views.
Family housing available
No
Single occupancy housing available
Yes
Pet friendly
No
Meals
Provided
Cell phone service
Yes, most carriers
Internet access
Good

About Camp Arcadia

Spending a summer at Camp Arcadia is much more than just a summer job!


As a counselor at Camp Arcadia you will make memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.  Join us and experience an amazing summer of professional and personal growth while sharing your talents and unique skills with fellow counselors and campers.

The Employee Experience

Working here is more than a summer job—it’s a professional springboard. Our staff joins a global community dedicated to championing children.

  • Impactful Leadership: Mentor girls ages 7–17 and help them reach their full potential.

  • Skill Mastery: Whether you're at the waterfront, the stables, or in the woods, you’ll hone communication, conflict resolution, and decision-making skills.

  • Adventure at Your Doorstep: Enjoy a mile of shoreline on Pleasant Lake and easy access to the White Mountains and the vibrant city of Portland.

Our counselors are actively and enthusiastically involved in our camp, teaching/working in their activity, and contributing to community life. The activities at Arcadia have a common focus to promote health and wellness, environmental issues, global awareness, and personal expression.  We view our entire staff as an integral part of  the success of Camp Arcadia.

Ideal Candidate

We are looking for staff who will:

  • Be a positive role model for our campers
  • Embrace camp life and culture with enthusiasm and curiosity 
  • Engage energetically and authentically within our camp community 
  • Make this summer the best ever, because they are a part of it!

We have job opportunities in Wilderness Skills/Campcraft, Hiking Trips, Waterfront, Riding, Archery, Leadership, and more!  You can click here for more information about our open positions.

All staff must be available June 12- August 9, 2026.  Trip leaders and anyone participating in onsite certifications will need to arrive earlier in June. There are opportunities for staff to work Opening Camp, Family Camp, and Closing Camp to extend their contracts earlier in June and later in August. 

Room and Board

Camp Arcadia is a residential setting with rustic, yet comfortable cabins with views of Pleasant Lake.  All cabins are technology-free.  Some cabins have electricity and most have bathroom facilities.  Cabins closest to the lake share a common bathroom.  There is a shower house that is centrally located to all the cabins.  Counselors who are not women share separate cabins located in our staff housing area.

Employee Perks

 

  • Paid training, weekly salary, and travel reimbursement based on distance from Maine
  • Weekly laundry service (or you may choose to use our coin-operated machines)
  • Uniform t-shirts
  • Wi-Fi in a staff area located away from the cabins
  • Individual lockers and locks to keep personal/valuable items
  • Transportation to/from Portland
  • Extensive staff training that will provide you with the tools and professional development needed for a successful season of working at camp
  • For some roles, opportunities to take part in certification courses or clinics to build your skills and resume
  • Internships, Practicums, Field-based Independent Studies credit and opportunities available
  • Unique new leadership development program for people from underrepresented communities who are interested in working in the outdoors industry
  • Access to a strong alumni network that spans professions and around the world!

Getting Here and Getting Around

Counselors are encouraged to bring personal cars to explore the surrounding wilderness and city of Portland during time off, although regular trips are coordinated by Camp.  On days off we provide transportation to destinations in Maine or New Hampshire within 2 hours of Camp.  When you arrive or depart camp, we can support you getting between camp and Portland, and buses and trains run frequently from Boston/Logan airport and surrounding New England cities. 

For Fun

Our staff has fun 24/7. Our staff lounge provides space to relax with your team. The staff lounge has Wifi, a secure locker to charge your personal devices, and games and sports equipment to enjoy during free time.  Whether it is our outings during Orientation, surprise staff snacks or swag, or our end-of-summer staff party, it’s important to us that our team have time to laugh and unwind in between supporting our campers.  

Each week staff have one day off, and they love to take advantage of the beauty and wonder of Maine. Often, they hike in the white mountains of Maine and New Hampshire, take a trip to Portland or Freeport for sightseeing and shopping or enjoy a day at the beach. There are many lakes in the region for canoeing, kayaking, and swimming, and Hackers Hill (a destination only minutes away from camp) provides an exceptional 360-view of Maine. Excursions to nearby towns such as Naples, Windham and Raymond are provided for shopping supplies and to experience local eats. 

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Current Job Openings

    Facilities / Housekeeping

    Housekeeping & Cabin Steward

    up to $15.10 / hour
    Otisfield

    Season: June 4 – August 19, 2026

    At Camp Arcadia, our beautiful, rustic facilities on the shores of Pleasant Lake are the backdrop for lifelong summer memories. We are looking for a detail-oriented, energetic Housekeeping & Cabin Steward to join our support team and ensure our historic camp remains clean, safe, and welcoming for our campers and staff.

    This role is perfect for someone who takes pride in creating a comfortable, orderly environment, enjoys active physical work, and wants to experience a vibrant, tech-free summer community in Maine.

    Your Impact at Camp:

    • Sanitation Champion: Clean and sanitize communal bathrooms, shower houses, and public camp spaces daily to maintain high health and safety standards.

    • Cabin & Lodge Care: Assist with turning over and cleaning cabins, the main lodge, and dining areas, keeping our historic lakeside facilities looking their best.

    • Laundry Support: Help manage the camp's linen and towel services, ensuring fresh supplies are always ready for the camp community.

    • Unplugged Community Member: Join a "tech-free" environment where you’ll trade screen time for real connections and build friendships with staff from all over the world.

    What We’re Looking For:

    • Strong Work Ethic: Previous experience in housekeeping, hospitality, or janitorial work is a plus, but a positive attitude and willingness to work hard are essential.

    • Attention to Detail: You take pride in your work and notice the small things that make a space feel clean and welcoming.

    • Physical Stamina: Ability to walk across camp terrain, lift up to 30 lbs, and handle the physical demands of cleaning in an outdoor summer environment.

    • The Arcadia Spirit: You are dependable, kind, and ready to dive into our supportive 110-year camp tradition.

    Why You’ll Love Arcadia Life:

    • The Setting: Live and work in a beautiful environment with a mile of private shoreline on Pleasant Lake.

    • The Perks: 48 hours a week with 8 hours of those hours at time and half Room & Board (housing and delicious family-style meals provided).

    • Work/Life Balance: Weekly laundry service is included so your own chores are taken care of!

    • Adventure Awaits: On your days off, explore the nearby White Mountains or the vibrant food and arts scene in Portland (just 45 minutes away).

    Horse Stables / Equestrian - Camp Counselor

    Stable Assistant & Riding Instructor

    Otisfield

    At Arcadia, the stables are a place of quiet confidence and connection. We are looking for a dedicated male staff member to join our equestrian team and help maintain a safe, enriching environment for our horses and campers. Whether you are leading a pony for a first-time rider or managing the morning stable routine, you are a vital part of the "unplugged" camp experience.

    This role is perfect for someone who finds peace in the rhythm of stable life and joy in sharing that passion with others. Note: Due to shared staff housing and counselor responsibilities, this position is a BFOQ for a male applicant.

    Your Impact at the Stables
    • Equine Care: Lead daily stable management tasks, including feeding, grooming, and ensuring the health and happiness of our herd.

    • Leading & Safety: Confidently lead horses during lessons and transitions, maintaining a calm and professional demeanor at all times.

    • Instruction (If Able): Assist with or lead riding lessons for campers (ages 7-17), helping them develop basic horsemanship and riding skills.

    • Unplugged Leadership: Join a "tech-free" community where you’ll build real-world connections and serve as a positive role model without the distraction of screens.

    What We’re Looking For
    • Horse Experience: Significant experience handling, leading, and caring for horses. You should be comfortable around various temperaments.

    • Teaching Mindset: Previous experience in riding instruction is a major plus, but a willingness to learn and assist our head instructors is essential.

    • Physical Stamina: Ability to handle the physical demands of stable work in an outdoor summer environment.

    • The Arcadia Spirit: We value staff who are kind, observant, and ready to dive into our historic camp traditions.

    Why You’ll Love Arcadia
    • The Setting: Live and work in a beautiful, rustic environment on the shores of Pleasant Lake with a mile of private shoreline.

    • The Community: Be part of a 110-year tradition of empowering girls. Our small staff-to-camper ratio means you truly get to know the community you are supporting.

    • The Perks: * Competitive seasonal salary plus Room and Board.

      • Weekly laundry service and delicious family-style meals.

      • Travel reimbursement and professional support.

      • Days off spent exploring the White Mountains or the Maine coast (Portland is only 45 minutes away!).

    • The Dates: June 4th - until at least August 10.

    Sailing Dept.

    Safety Boat Driver & Waterfront Lifeguard

    Otisfield


    Season: June 12 – August 19, 2026 (Early arrival June 7 for Lifeguard Course)

    The Heart of the Job

    At Camp Arcadia, we believe that being "on the water" is where girls find their true confidence. As our Safety Boat Driver, you are the guardian of this experience. You’ll be the primary safety net for our sailing fleet—operating our motorboat to monitor 420s, Hobie Ones, and Optis, and providing a calm, expert presence for our campers (ages 7-17).

    This isn't just a "driving" job; it’s a leadership role in one of Maine’s most historic and beautiful summer communities.

    Your Impact on the Lake
    • The Safety Net: Operate the motorboat during all sailing sessions to ensure the safety of our sailors. You'll handle everything from towing boats in a dead calm to assisting with capsizes during a "stiff wind."

    • Waterfront Guardian: Act as the primary Lifeguard for the sailing department. You are the first responder for any on-water needs.

    • Fleet Caretaker: Assist the Sailing Counselors with daily boat checks, fueling, and keeping our equipment in "ship-shape" for the girls.

    • Unplugged Leadership: Join a "tech-free" community where you'll build real-world connections without the distraction of screens.

    What We’re Looking For
    • Boating Experience: You should be comfortable and confident maneuvering small motorboats, especially in close proximity to sailboats and swimmers.

    • Lifeguard Certified (Or Willing to Learn): Current ARC Lifeguarding is a plus. If you aren't certified yet, don't worry—we can provide or reimburse the course! You just need to be a strong swimmer and arrive a few days early (June 7) to train on-site.

    • The Arcadia Spirit: We value staff who are role models—kind, observant, and ready to dive into camp traditions.

    Why You’ll Love Arcadia
    • The Setting: Live in a rustic cabin on the shores of Pleasant Lake with a mile of private shoreline to explore.

    • The Community: Be part of a 110-year tradition of empowering girls. Our small staff-to-camper ratio means you truly get to know the people you're protecting.

    • The Perks:

      • Competitive seasonal salary + Room and Board.

      • Travel Reimbursement and certification support.

      • Weekly laundry service and delicious family-style meals.

      • Days off spent exploring the White Mountains or the Maine coast (Portland is only 45 minutes away!).

    Campcraft Instructor & Outdoor Leadership

    Campcraft & Outdoor Leadership

    Otisfield

    🌲 Lead the Adventure: Campcraft & Outdoor Leadership
    Season: June 12 – August 19, 2026 (Early arrival June 7 for Lifeguard Course)

    At Camp Arcadia, we don't just "go for a hike"—we master the art of the woods. We are looking for a Campcraft Instructor who is ready to turn the Maine wilderness into a classroom. This role is perfect for a backcountry enthusiast who wants to mentor the next generation of outdoorswomen while living in one of the most beautiful corners of New England.

    The Leadership Track

    We are specifically looking for someone with the vision to grow. For the right candidate, this role includes a Department Leader track, giving you the opportunity to shape the curriculum, manage equipment, and lead a dedicated team of outdoor staff.


    Your Impact in the Maine Woods
    • Skill Master: Teach hands-on woodcraft—from the perfect one-match fire and outdoor cooking to advanced map and compass navigation.

    • Wilderness Prep Specialist: Lead the "behind-the-scenes" mastery of expedition planning. You’ll guide campers through the logistics of backcountry travel, ensuring they are mentally and physically prepared to tackle the rugged beauty of the New England wilderness.

    • Confidence Architect: Watch campers (ages 7-17) transform from hesitant beginners to capable, "woods-wise" leaders under your guidance.

    What Makes You a Great Fit
    • Backcountry Fluency: You aren’t just a fan of the outdoors; you have experience living and teaching in them.

    • Safety First: You prioritize well-being in remote settings. Required: CPR & First Aid (WFA or WFR is a huge plus!).

    • The "Unplugged" Mindset: You’re ready to trade your phone for a compass and build a community based on real-world connection.


    The Perks of Arcadia Life
    • Competitive Pay: Seasonal salary plus full Room & Board.

    • Work/Life Balance: Weekly laundry service and family-style meals mean your "chores" are handled.

    • The Ultimate Backyard: Spend your days off exploring the Maine coast or the peaks of the White Mountains (Portland is just 45 minutes away!).

    • Community: Join a 110-year tradition of empowering girls in a supportive, tech-free environment.

    Waterfront

    Canoeing Instructor

    Otisfield

    đź›¶ Master of the Lake: Canoeing Instructor
    Season: June 12 – August 19, 2026 (Early arrival June 7 for Lifeguard Course)

    At Arcadia, the lake is our center, and Canoeing is where it all begins. We are looking for a Canoeing Instructor who can turn a simple paddle into a tool for discovery. This is one of our most active departments, offering you the chance to mentor every single camper and leave a lasting mark on their summer experience.

    Your Impact on the Water
    • Primary Educator: Be part of a dynamic team to teach all aspects of canoeing—from basic strokes for 7-year-olds to advanced maneuvers and rescues for our oldest campers.

    • Skill Progression: Guide campers through our historic leveled badge program, watching their confidence grow as they master technical skills and teamwork.

    • Waterfront Guardian: Serve as a vital part of our safety net. As a certified Lifeguard, you’ll ensure a secure and supportive environment for all campers on Pleasant Lake.


    What Makes You a Great Fit
    • Paddling Passion: You love being on the water and have the technical skills to back it up.

    • Safety Mindset: You are (or are willing to become) Lifeguard and CPR certified. If you aren't certified yet, we can help you find a course or discuss on-site training!

    • The "Unplugged" Role Model: You thrive in a tech-free community and enjoy building real-world connections through coaching and play.


    Why You’ll Love Arcadia Life
    • A Dedicated Team: Work in a multi-person department where you always have teammates to collaborate and brainstorm with.

    • The Ultimate "Office": Spend your summer on a mile of private shoreline on beautiful Pleasant Lake.

    • The Perks: Competitive seasonal salary, full Room & Board, and weekly laundry service.

    • Adventure Awaits: On your days off, explore the nearby White Mountains or the vibrant food scene in Portland (just 45 minutes away).

    Trips

    Hiking Trips Counselor

    Otisfield

    🏔️ Hiking Trips Counselor: Lead the Adventure of a Summer!
    Are you ready to trade your morning commute for a mountain sunrise?

    At Camp Arcadia, we believe the best classrooms don't have walls—they have ridgelines, pine-scented air, and the glow of a campfire. We are looking for high-energy, outdoor enthusiasts, preferably female due to housing, to lead our campers through the breathtaking wilderness of Maine and New Hampshire.

    As a Hiking Trips Counselor, you aren't just a guide; you’re a mentor, a storyteller, and a confidence-builder. Whether you're leading a first-time camper on a local day hike or navigating a multi-day wilderness overnight, you’ll be the one helping girls discover their strength and a lifelong respect for the environment.

    Your Impact on the Trail:
    • The Ultimate Guide: Lead campers (ages 7-17) on iconic treks through the White Mountains and beyond.

    • Outdoor Educator: Teach essential skills like Leave No Trace principles, navigation, and campcraft.

    • Community Builder: Foster teamwork and resilience as girls tackle new challenges and reach peaks they never thought possible.

    • Safety Champion: Maintain a safe, supportive environment while managing gear and trip logistics.

    What We’re Looking For:
    • Trail Passion: You live for the outdoors and have experience hiking or backpacking.

    • Wilderness Ready: You hold (or are willing to get) Wilderness First Aid and CPR certifications. (We can help you find a course!)

    • Positive Energy: You have a "can-do" attitude even when the trail gets steep or the rain starts to fall.

    • Bonus Points: Canoeing experience or Lifeguard training is a huge plus!

    Why You’ll Love Living the Arcadia Life:
    • Unplug and Reconnect: Trade the digital world for authentic human connection in one of the most beautiful settings in the country.

    • Adventure is Your Office: Spend your "workday" exploring the best trails in the Northeast.

    • Professional Growth: Gain leadership, group management, and outdoor industry experience that looks great on any resume.

    • The Perks: Competitive seasonal salary, room and board, and a supportive community of fellow adventurers.

    Waterfront

    Sailing Instructor & Coach

    Otisfield

    Season: June 12 – August 16

    Sailing is one of the most iconic experiences at Arcadia. We are looking for a Sailing Instructor who can turn the physics of wind into pure fun for our campers. Working under the guidance of our Head of Sailing, you will be part of a dedicated team that helps girls navigate the winds of Pleasant Lake and build lifelong confidence on the water.

    Your Impact on the Fleet
    • Technical Coach: Lead hands-on lessons across our fleet, including 420s, Hobie Ones, and Optis.

    • Skill Builder: Help campers progress through our leveled sailing program—from their first time holding a tiller to mastering complex maneuvers.

    • Race Support: Assist in coaching our older campers for inter-camp regattas, focusing on tactics, starts, and speed.

    • Waterfront Safety: Act as a primary lookout and lifeguard, providing a calm, expert presence to ensure every sailor feels secure, even when the wind picks up.

    What Makes You a Great Fit
    • Sailing Proficiency: You are comfortable rigging and solo-operating small sailboats and can explain points of sail, tacking, and jibing to a beginner.

    • Team Player: You enjoy working as part of a crew and are ready to support the Head of Sailing in maintaining the fleet and curriculum.

    • Safety Mindset: You are Lifeguard and CPR certified (or ready to become one!). If you need certification, we can help you find a course or discuss on-site training.

    • The "Unplugged" Role Model: You’re ready to trade your phone for the lake and build real connections in our tech-free community.


    Why You’ll Love Arcadia Life
    • The Gear: Work with well-maintained boats on a mile of private shoreline on beautiful Pleasant Lake.

    • Focus on Teaching: With a Department Head handling the logistics, you get to spend your time doing what you love—being out on the water and teaching.

    • The Perks: Competitive seasonal salary, full Room & Board, and weekly laundry service.

    • Adventure: On your days off, explore the nearby White Mountains or the vibrant coast of Maine.

How to Apply

Camp Arcadia is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive and accepting environment for all employees.

Please click the apply button below to start your online application today.  We look forward to connecting with you!

Apply Now

Contact Info

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