Cabin Counselor
Camp Chewonki
Wiscasset, Maine
Spend your summer exploring midcoast Maine while sharing your love of the outdoors with youth!
Job start date
Jun 17, 2026
Camp Chewonki
Camp Chewonki
Currently recruiting for the season from June 14th, 2026 to August 17th, 2026.
Chewonki is an overnight camp, trip, and environmental education organization based in Wiscasset, Maine, that inspires transformative growth, teaches appreciation and stewardship of the natural world, and challenges people to build thriving, sustainable communities throughout their lives. Chewonki is a 501(c) non-profit organization.
Wiscasset Maine
- Location
- Maine
- Season
- Spring, Summer, and Fall
- Staff size
- roughly 100 seasonal staff
- Housing
- Whether included in the compensation package or provided at a cost, housing is provided for staff.
- Housing details
- Shared housing for most positions
- Family housing available
- No
- Single occupancy housing available
- No
- Pet friendly
- No
- Meals
- Provided
- Cell phone service
- Yes, most carriers
- Internet access
- Good
About Camp Chewonki
Camp Chewonki offers campers a place to laugh, learn, and explore. We teach children of all genders in 2nd to 11th grade to connect with the natural world, make deep connections to a new community of friends, and develop skills and strength within themselves.
Our overnight campers (2nd - 8th grade) immerse themselves in fun and educational activities focused on community building, outdoor living skills, natural history, farm and food systems, and watercraft. Additional activities include visual arts, performing arts, woodworking, and archery with opportunities for swimming, sports, and recreation during free time. Our campers participating in Leadership Expeditions (9th-11th grade) explore the state of Maine and beyond on multi-week backcountry expeditions.
Come experience the magic of camp and discover what’s inside of you!
The Employee Experience
At Chewonki, we hire roughly 100 seasonal camp staff and serve approximately 175 campers per session. We run two 3-week sessions for campers in grades 4-8, and offer shorter sessions for our youngest campers in 2nd and 3rd grade. Once campers graduate 8th grade, they move on to Leadership Expeditions and spend their session on backcountry expeditions, rather than at camp.
As camp staff, we have the opportunity to shape the camp experience for campers and to create lifelong friendships with other staff. Staff spend the summer on over 400 beautiful acres in mid-coast Maine, while Cabin Counselors get the opportunity to go on backcountry trips with their campers, taking them all over the state.
We have a large, experienced leadership team, including mental health staff, and fully recognize that staff wellbeing is directly linked to positive camper experience. We care about each staff member as a unique individual and are committed to providing support at all levels.
Here are some things our 2024 staff shared about working at Chewonki:
"This was an incredible experience and one that will stay with me for a long time. I feel like a completely different person than who I was in June."
"I learned a lot about kids, conflict resolution, and the brains of 10 year olds."
"I grew in ways I didn't expect."
"[The job] pushed me more than I anticipated, but I grew more from it."
"I'm already looking forward to coming back next year!"
Ideal Candidate
Camp Chewonki staff are kind, empathetic, thoughtful, and fun adults who are responsible for caring for all aspects of the well-being of all of our campers. Staff help campers adjust to camp life, develop community with their cabinmates, navigate the daily schedule, and develop the skills to be successful anywhere.
Ideal candidates will have a passion for working with children, spending time in the outdoors, and a dedication to lifelong learning.
Room and Board
Room and board are included for all camp staff. Cabin Counselors reside in cabins with the campers; non-cabin staff live with other staff. Cabins are a short walk away from communal bath houses and showers. Coordinators and Heads have private bedrooms with shared bathrooms.
Each meal at camp is prepared by our year round kitchen team, so we can accommodate most dietary requirements. Our kitchen partners with our farm, meaning much of our food is grown on site or in the local area; you can expect meals to be fresh and well-balanced. We eat buffet-style so each person has control of what's on their plate.
Employee Perks
We offer a competitive salary package (one of the highest in the camp industry) and include housing, meals, wifi, laundry service, two Chewonki shirts, travel stipend, access to camp facilities during time off (with director approval), and organized, optional staff activities during time off.
Camp Chewonki will also pay for any certification required for your role, and if you hold a job-required certification prior to employment at Chewonki, you'll receive a bonus!
Getting Here and Getting Around
Many staff choose to drive to camp and if that's the case for you, you can park your car on site for the summer. If you choose to come by bus, plane, or train, we can pick you up in Portland, the nearest major city. Portland is about 40 minutes from camp.
We always schedule several staff to be off at the same time, so if you are looking to get off-campus during your time off and don't have your own vehicle, you'll be able to car-pool with other staff.
For Fun
When on camp property, it can feel like the rest of the world is a million miles away, but in reality we are less than 10 miles from the center of the town of Wiscasset. Wiscasset is a large town with several stores, a community pool, several restaurants and coffee shops, and plenty of other amenities. We are 40 minutes from the city of Portland and 2 hours from Boston.
Roughly 3 hours north of camp, you'll find Acadia National Park and Mount Katahdin, (Baxter Peak on Mount Katahdin is the northern terminus of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail). Many staff visit Acadia during our intersession break.
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Jobs in the Spotlight
Trip Leader + Adventure Staff
Camp Chewonki
Wiscasset, Maine
Spend your summer exploring midcoast Maine while sharing your love of the outdoors with youth!
Job start date
Jun 13, 2026
Current Job Openings
Location: Wiscasset, Maine (On Campus, in-person)
This is a seasonal residential position
Schedule/ 2026 Dates: June 14, 2026 - August 16, 2026 (Seasonal position)
Reports to: Director of Health and Wellness Center
Conduct health screenings for all campers on arrival day
Manage medications and refills throughout the camp session
Treat minor injuries and illnesses and coordinate care for more serious conditions
Respond to overnight health needs while on-call
Provide health support for backcountry trips via satellite phone
Maintain first aid supplies, AEDs, and med kits
Triage mental wellness concerns and refer as needed
Document care and communication using electronic health records
Drive campers to off-site medical appointments when needed
EMT or WFR certification (previous experience required)
Must be 21+ with a valid driver’s license (and pass driver training)
Must pass Criminal Background Check.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism
Strong communication & problem-solving skills
Comfort with camp life—including irregular hours and outdoor settings
Physically able to lift 50 lbs and walk across campgrounds as needed
Willingness to live in a camp setting and work irregular hours
Salary for the full Camp Chewonki season is $5,000
Room and board included!
Meals provided during shift hours
Travel stipend
Discount on programming for immediate family members
$200 refer a friend bonus
Academic internship credit possible
Be part of a mission-driven organization focused on growth, learning, and adventure.
Work in a fun, energetic, and supportive team environment.
Location: Wiscasset, Maine (On Campus, in-person)
Schedule/ 2026 Dates: June 14, 2026 - August 16, 2026 (Seasonal Position)
Reports to: Director of Health and Wellness Center
Live & Work in Nature – Spend your summer at one of the most beautiful camp settings in Maine.
Make a Difference – Provide essential healthcare for campers and staff, ensuring a safe and fun experience.
Be Part of a Community – Work alongside passionate educators, outdoor leaders, and medical professionals in a supportive and enriching environment.
Provide routine and urgent care for campers and staff.
Monitor and assist participants with chronic health conditions.
Triage and support workplace injuries.
Maintain first aid kits and AED equipment across camp.
Train staff in basic first aid and medication administration.
Support mental wellness, referring to specialists as needed.
Must pass Criminal Background Check.
Current Registered Nurse (RN) license with the Maine State Board of Nursing.
Current Basic Life Saving (BLS) certification.
Experience in pediatrics, emergency care, school nursing, or camp settings preferred.
Strong assessment and communication skills.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and detailed records.
Must be able to lift and move up to 50 lb at a time.
Camp activity areas are spread over many acres. Must be able to walk outdoors as needed throughout the camp day and night.
Salary for the full Camp Chewonki season is $7,000
Meals provided during shift hours
Travel stipend
Discount on programming for immediate family members
$200 refer a friend bonus
Academic internship credit possible
Be part of a mission-driven organization focused on growth, learning, and adventure.
Work in a fun, energetic, and supportive team environment.
Location: Wiscasset, Maine (On Campus, in-person)
This is a seasonal residential position
Schedule/ 2026 Dates: June 14, 2026 - August 16, 2026 (Seasonal position)
Reports to: Director of Health and Wellness Center
Live & Work in Nature – Spend your summer at one of the most beautiful camp settings in Maine.
Make a Difference – Provide essential healthcare for campers and staff, ensuring a safe and fun experience.
Be Part of a Community – Work alongside passionate educators, outdoor leaders, and medical professionals in a supportive and enriching environment.
Provide routine and urgent care for campers and staff.
Monitor and assist participants with chronic health conditions.
Triage and support workplace injuries.
Maintain first aid kits and AED equipment across camp.
Train staff in basic first aid and medication administration.
Support mental wellness, referring to specialists as needed.
Be on-call overnight to respond to camper health needs.
Must pass Criminal Background Check.
Current Registered Nurse (RN) license with the Maine State Board of Nursing.
Current Basic Life Saving (BLS) certification.
Experience in pediatrics, emergency care, school nursing, or camp settings preferred.
Strong assessment and communication skills.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and detailed records.
Willingness to live on-site and embrace camp life!
Must be able to lift and move up to 50 lb at a time.
Camp activity areas are spread over many acres. Must be able to walk outdoors as needed throughout the camp day and night.
Salary for the full Camp Chewonki season is $7,000
Room and board included!
Meals provided during shift hours
Travel stipend
Discount on programming for immediate family members
$200 refer a friend bonus
Academic internship credit possible
Be part of a mission-driven organization focused on growth, learning, and adventure.
Work in a fun, energetic, and supportive team environment.
Location: Wiscasset, Maine (On Campus, in-person)
Schedule/ 2026 Dates:
Orientation June 13, 2026
June 20, 2026 - August 16, 2026 (Seasonal Position)
Reports to: Director of Food Services
Dishwashing & Cleaning: Keep our dining areas spotless by washing dishes, maintaining the dish room, and ensuring the facility is sanitary.
Food Prep & Kitchen Support: Assist the kitchen team during busy mealtimes, reset tables, and help keep supplies organized.
Eco-Friendly Practices: Help manage compost, recycling, and waste efforts to support our zero-waste initiatives.
Community Engagement: Interact with campers and staff while upholding our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Minimum age 14,
Any minor under the age of 16 must a Workers Permit (great first job opportunity!).
Friendly attitude and ability to work in a team environment.
Willingness to work in a fast-paced setting.
Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 25 lbs.
Must attend training and follow food safety regulations.
Reliable transportation to and from camp.
$15.50 - $17/Hour
$200 refer a friend bonus
Work in a beautiful outdoor setting!
Enjoy delicious meals while on shift.
Meet amazing people and make lasting friendships.
Be part of an organization committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Location: Wiscasset, Maine (On Campus, Residential-Seasonal)
Schedule/ 2026 Dates: June 14, 2026 - August 16, 2026 (includes lifeguard training)
Reports to: Generalist Coordinator
Exempt/Non-exempt: Exempt
Hold responsibility for physical, mental and emotional wellbeing of participants; this includes:
Develop healthy and appropriate relationships with participants.
Provide direct supervision of participants as assigned.
Support in the planning and facilitating of special events (e.g. evening events, weekly events, once a session events, off-campus day trips) as directed by the Generalist Coordinator.
Support cabin coverage needs and provide bedtime coverage as assigned.
Lifeguard, as part of the waterfront team (course offered by Chewonki). Lifeguard responsibilities:
Must complete skills verification after participating in Chewonki provided site specific training.
Maintains constant surveillance of campers at the waterfront; acts immediately and appropriately to secure safety of campers in the event of emergency.
Understand and implement appropriate response to changes in water conditions or weather conditions affecting the waterfront.
Assist in the management and care of the physical facilities and equipment in the waterfront program area.
Instill joy and enthusiasm into the daily life of camp.
Must pass Criminal Background Check.
Experience working with children in a camp-like setting.
Experience working in educational spaces, preferred.
Current Lifeguard Certification (offered by Chewonki).
Previous waterfront or lifeguard experience, preferred.
This position is eligible for a stipend for driving responsibilities if the following qualifications are met:
Valid driver’s license and driving record approved by Chewonki’s Insurance Carrier, must attend Driver’s Training.
At least 21 years old (to drive participants).
Attend required onboarding and training sessions.
Must be able to lift up to 50 lb at a time.
Must be able to work in an active, outdoor environment in a variety of weather conditions.
Able to participate in games, sports, and physical activities including water-based games and activities.
Able to maintain attention and a high level of energy or excitement for extended periods of time.
Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to environmental and other hazards related to the activity.
Physical ability to respond appropriately to situations requiring first aid. Must be able to assist campers in an emergency (fire, evacuation, illness, or injury) and possess strength and endurance required to maintain constant supervision of campers.
Willingness to live in a camp setting and work irregular hours.
Location: Wiscasset, Maine (On Campus, in-person)
Schedule/ 2026 Dates: June 8, 2026 - August 16, 2026 (Seasonal Position)
Reports to: Director of Food Services
Prepare and serve delicious, well-balanced meals and snacks for campers, staff, and special events.
Maintain high kitchen cleanliness standards, properly store leftovers, and complete deep-cleaning tasks.
Adhere to food safety, sanitation, and hygiene protocols to comply with State of Maine and American Camp Association regulations.
Reduce waste through composting and recycling in alignment with Chewonki’s sustainability practices.
Work as part of a team, supporting camp staff and participants with their food service needs.
Embody the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion while fostering a welcoming community.
Participate in training and professional development opportunities.
Must be at least 18 years old and able to pass a Criminal Background Check.
Experience working in a commercial or institutional kitchen preferred.
ServSafe® or food handler certification is desirable.
Knowledge of food allergies and special dietary requirements is a plus.
Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends.
Attend required onboarding and training sessions on campus.
Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
Endurance to stand and walk for extended periods (60+ minutes).
Comfort working in a hot kitchen environment.
Safe use of kitchen equipment, including knives, slicers, food processors, and mixers.
Ability to work in a camp setting and work irregular hours.
Work in a beautiful outdoor setting with a team of passionate, like-minded individuals.
Gain valuable culinary experience in a professional yet fun environment.
Be a part of a mission-driven organization dedicated to sustainability, education, and community.
Enjoy a rewarding summer job that allows you to make a difference in the lives of campers and staff!
$18/hour
Travel Stipend
$200 refer a friend bonus
Work in a fun, energetic, and supportive team environment!
Location: Wiscasset, Maine (On Campus, in-person)
Schedule/ 2026 Dates: June 17, 2026 - August 16, 2026
Reports to: Age Group Coordinator
Hold responsibility for physical, mental and emotional wellbeing of participants; this includes:
Develop healthy and appropriate relationships with participants
Conduct daily check-ins with participants
Provide direct supervision of participants as assigned
Live in cabins with campers and other cabin counselors; support campers in daily living routines and facilitate meal times.
Assist with the facilitation at activity areas and of cabin’s remote trips.
Plan and execute free time activities, evening activities and special events.
Instill joy and enthusiasm into the daily life of camp.
Community Responsibilities
Work to honor and uphold the principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, and a lens of anti-racism in the best interest of participants, constituents, and staff across the organization.
A willingness to work as a team member among the Camp Program and the greater Chewonki community.
Work on the Chewonki campus and share meals with the community.
Contribute to and collaborate with the Chewonki community through committees and foundation wide events.
Share the collective responsibility within risk management (physical, behavioral, institutional, etc.) by:
Using sound judgment
Operating within your skill set and Chewonki protocols
Responding to and/ or alerting the appropriate person(s) when you see something that may compromise safety
Fulfill other duties as assigned.
Must complete fingerprinting requirements/pass criminal background check.
Hold a valid driver’s license approved by Chewonki’s insurance carrier, preferred.
Some Experience working with youth, preferred.
Ability to empathize with and support children of diverse backgrounds and abilities.
Ability to guide campers in adapting to camp life and learning new skills.
Proven ability to build trust, foster community, and model positive behaviors.
Attend required onboarding and training sessions.
As applicable, experience working in specialized activity area; relevant certification, as required:
Preferred Certifications depending on activity area could include: American Canoe Association, American Red Cross Lifeguarding, U.S. Archery Instructor, Association for Challenge Course Technology, etc.
Basic First Aid/CPR Certification required (Chewonki will provide training); Wilderness First Aid strongly preferred.
Must be able to lift up to 50lbs at a time.
Must be able to work in an active, outdoor environment in a variety of weather conditions.
Able to participate in games, sports, and physical activities including water-based games and activities.
Able to maintain attention and a high level of energy or excitement for extended periods of time.
Incentives: travel stipend, room & board, driving bonus (must be 21+), referral bonus, musician bonus, bonuses for current Lifeguard or WFA/WFR
You can earn academic internship credit for this position! Our camp fosters an excellent work experience and fulfills most school's internship requirements. We will build out a set of individualized learning objectives and specific goals for you to achieve throughout the summer. Our Associate Directors will be happy to tailor these objectives individually to your course or major of study!
Camp Chewonki Health and Wellness Center (HWC)
Summer EMT or WFR (Residential)
$5,000.00 / year
Wiscasset
Salary: $5,000.00 Annually
Join Our Team as a Residential Camp Health Center Aide/EMT/WFR
Make a Difference This Summer at Chewonki!
Are you passionate about health and wellness? Do you thrive in a dynamic, outdoor environment? Chewonki is looking for compassionate and skilled Health Center Aide/EMT/WFR to join our seasonal, residential summer camp team!
At Chewonki, we believe in fostering adventure, personal growth, and lifelong friendships for campers and staff alike. As a Health Center Aide/EMT/WFR, you will play a vital role in ensuring the well-being of our community while immersing yourself in an unforgettable summer experience!
What You’ll Do:Live & work in nature—spend your summer in a beautiful, outdoor setting!
Be part of a tight-knit community dedicated to youth development
Enjoy the adventure—participate in camp life, make lasting connections, and create unforgettable memories!
Apply today and become a part of something truly special!
Camp Chewonki Health and Wellness Center (HWC)
Camp Nurse (RN, LPN) (Non-Residential)
$7,000.00 / season
Wiscasset
Now Hiring: Camp Nurse (RN, LPN) – Join Our Summer Adventure!
Are you a compassionate and skilled nurse who thrives in dynamic environments? Do you love the great outdoors and want to make a meaningful impact on young lives? Join Chewonki, a leader in immersive outdoor education, as a seasonal Camp Nurse!
Are you ready for a summer of adventure, purpose, and impact? Apply today and be a vital part of the Chewonki experience!
Camp Chewonki Health and Wellness Center (HWC)
Camp Nurse (RN) (Residential)
$7,000.00 / season
Wiscasset
Now Hiring: Residential Camp Nurse (RN) – Join Our Summer Adventure!
Are you a compassionate and skilled nurse who thrives in dynamic environments? Do you love the great outdoors and want to make a meaningful impact on young lives? Join Chewonki, a leader in immersive outdoor education, as a seasonal Residential Camp Nurse!
Are you ready for a summer of adventure, purpose, and impact? Apply today and be a vital part of the Chewonki experience!
Center for Environmental Education
Environmental Education Instructor
$500.00 / week
Wiscasset
The Chewonki Foundation is seeking a passionate Environmental Education Instructor with excellent leadership skills to join the Chewonki Team! The Environmental Education Instructor position is a 3-season position spanning the beginning of April through the end of October, with the opportunity to work for Camp during the Summer season.
Click here for the full position description and application instructions!
Camp Chewonki
Trip Leader + Adventure Staff
$4,500.00 / season
Wiscasset
Do you believe that the best classroom has no walls? Are you energized by paddling into the unknown, guiding young people through meaningful challenges, and building joyful community in wild places? Camp Chewonki is seeking Trip Leader & Adventure Staff to lead unforgettable backcountry expeditions and support dynamic adventure programming!
Trip Leader & Adventure Staff are at the heart of the Chewonki experience. This dual-role position combines leading youth on transformative wilderness trips with instructing adventure-based programming at camp. You’ll be a mentor, educator, risk manager, and cheerleader—modeling kindness, empathy, and enthusiasm while creating safe, challenging, and deeply impactful experiences.
Click here to read the full position description and application instructions!
Camp Chewonki Kitchen
Kitchen Support Staff
$15.50 - $17.00 / hour
Wiscasset
Are you looking for a fun and rewarding summer job where you can be part of a dynamic team? Do you enjoy working in a fast-paced environment while making a positive impact on a community? Join us as Kitchen Support Staff and be an essential part of our summer camp experience!
At Chewonki, we believe that great meals fuel great adventures! As part of our Kitchen Support Staff, you’ll play a crucial role in keeping our dining facilities clean, organized, and running smoothly. You’ll be part of a supportive team that works together to create a positive and welcoming environment for campers and staff alike.
What You’ll Do:This is more than just a summer job—it’s an opportunity to gain experience, develop teamwork skills, and be part of a fun, mission-driven environment!
Ready to Join the Team? Apply today and be part of an unforgettable summer at Chewonki!
Camp Chewonki
Summer Camp Lifeguard + Counselor
$3,100.00 / season
Wiscasset
This is an out-of-cabin lifeguard/generalist counselor position.
Are you adaptable, resourceful, and ready for a summer full of variety and impact? As a Generalist Counselor/Summer Camp Lifeguard, you’ll be a key part of the camp’s success, stepping into different roles to support cabins, campers, and activity areas as needed. From building connections with campers to providing lifeguard expertise on the waterfront, every day will bring new opportunities to make a difference. If you’re ready to embrace flexibility, foster community, and create unforgettable memories, join us this summer at Chewonki!
Essential Responsibilities:
QUALIFICATIONS
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Camp Chewonki Kitchen
Summer Cook (Non-Residential)
$18.00 / hour
Wiscasset
Do you have a passion for cooking and a love for the great outdoors? Are you looking for a summer job where you can create delicious, wholesome meals while being part of a vibrant camp community? If so, we want YOU to join our team at Chewonki as a Summer Cook!
As a Summer Cook (non-residential), you'll work under the guidance of the Director of Food Services and year-round kitchen staff to keep our camp kitchen running smoothly. You’ll prepare fresh, nutritious meals from scratch, maintain excellent food safety standards, and ensure that our kitchen remains clean and organized—all while embracing the Chewonki Mission and Food Philosophy.
Key Responsibilities:If you’re ready to bring your skills to our kitchen and be part of an unforgettable summer experience, apply today!
Join us at Chewonki and cook up something amazing this summer!
Camp Chewonki
Summer Camp Cabin Counselor
$3,100.00 / season
Wiscasset
Camp Chewonki is one of Maine's most prestigious nature-based overnight camp and expedition-based youth leadership program for boys, girls, and non-binary children based on a 400-acre peninsula in mid-coast Maine. Since 1915, Chewonki has been changing the lives of children and staff- including yours! Overnight campers are aged 8-15 and spend 10 days or 3 weeks at camp. The overnight camp program focuses on building cabin community, building social emotional skills and knowledge in a core curriculum (including natural history, farm sciences, watercraft, the arts, and more!) and learning about backcountry travel on multi-day remote cabin trips.
POSITION SUMMARY:
Cabin counselors live in cabins with 8 campers and 1 other counselor. They help campers adjust to camp life, develop community with their cabinmates, navigate the daily schedule, and develop the skills to be successful anywhere. In addition to supporting campers daily routines, Cabin Counselors work as either a trip specialist or activity specialist.
Trip Counselors go on their cabins designated multi-day backpacking, kayak, or canoe trip.
Activity Counselors are trained in and teach one of our 9 activity areas: visual arts, farm & food systems, sports, watercraft, natural history, community building, outdoor loving skills, woodworking, or archery.
Ideal candidates will have a passion for working with children, spending time in the outdoors, and a dedication to lifelong learning.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
QUALIFICATIONS
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
SALARY & BENEFITS
Starting Salary: $3,100, increases based on prior leadership experience
How to Apply
Candidates should submit applications through the link provided, and can expect to hear from one of the directors within one week of submitting an application.
Contact Info
- Katie Malek
- kmalek@chewonki.org
- (207) 656-5843
- camp.chewonki.org
