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Work Camp Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

True Friends

Summer Camp Counselor

Sites, CA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

Where You Could Work * Camp Friendship | Annandale, MN * Camp Eden Wood | Eden Prairie, MN * Camp Courage | Maple Lake, MN Camp Counselors may work at one, two, or all three of our camp locations ...

Posted today

True Friends

Camp Nursing Assistant

Sites, CA · On-site

$32K - $42K/yr

Where You Could Work * Camp Friendship | Annandale, MN * Camp Eden Wood | Eden Prairie, MN What You'll Do Your responsibilities may include: * Set up and administer medications according to ...

Posted today

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How much do work camp jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for work camp in California is $15.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.60 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a work camp?

Work camps are organized living and working arrangements where groups of people, often seasonal or temporary workers, reside on-site to perform specific jobs. These camps are commonly used in industries like agriculture, construction, mining, or disaster relief, where the job location is remote or requires a concentrated workforce. Accommodations and amenities can vary, but essential facilities like housing, dining, and recreational spaces are typically provided. Work camps help employers meet labor demands while offering workers a place to stay near the job site.

What are the typical responsibilities and daily routines for employees working at a work camp?

Employees at work camps are often responsible for maintaining the daily operations of the facility, which can include preparing and serving meals, housekeeping, janitorial work, and general maintenance tasks. They may also assist with inventory management, ensure compliance with safety protocols, and support recreational or administrative activities for camp residents. The work environment is usually structured with shift-based schedules, and teamwork is essential, as employees often collaborate closely to meet the needs of residents and keep the camp running smoothly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a work camp manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Work Camp Manager, you generally need experience in facilities management, logistics, and basic health and safety compliance, often supported by a background in hospitality or project management. Familiarity with camp management software, inventory tracking systems, and knowledge of regulatory standards are typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help ensure smooth operations and high morale among staff and residents. These skills are crucial for maintaining a safe, efficient, and comfortable living environment in remote or demanding work camp settings.

What is the difference between Work Camp vs Construction Worker?

AspectWork CampConstruction Worker
CredentialsMinimal; often on-the-job trainingVaries; may require certifications or licenses
Work EnvironmentTemporary housing, remote or site-basedConstruction sites, indoor/outdoor
Employer & IndustryEmployers in resource extraction, forestry, or remote projectsConstruction companies, general contracting
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding living arrangements and job rolesJob duties, skills, and certifications

Work Camps are temporary living and working arrangements often associated with resource extraction or remote projects, requiring minimal credentials. Construction Workers perform specific building tasks on-site, often needing certifications. While both roles are industry-related, Work Camps focus on accommodation and general labor, whereas Construction Workers focus on skilled trades and construction tasks.

What are popular job titles related to Work Camp jobs in California?

For Work Camp jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Work Camp jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Work Camp jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Work Camp jobs?

Cities in California with the most Work Camp job openings:

Work Camp jobs near you
Infographic showing various Work Camp job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,343 per year, or $15.1 per hour.

Summer Camp Counselor

True Friends

Sites, CA • On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

Temporary

Posted 18 hours ago

Posted today

Job description

Summer Camp Counselor – Multiple Locations amp; Programs
Join us in our mission to provide life-changing experiences that enhance independence and self-esteem for children and adults with disabilities!
About the Role
As a Camp Counselor, you’ll help create life-changing experiences for children and adults with disabilities. Whether you’re supporting campers in a cabin, leading an activity, helping someone build independence, or sharing your own talents, you’ll play an important role in creating a safe, inclusive, and unforgettable camp experience.
True Friends offers several Camp Counselor assignments across our three camp locations. Schedules, program lengths, responsibilities, and camper needs vary by assignment. During the application and selection process, we’ll learn more about your interests, experience, availability, and strengths to help determine which opportunity is the best fit.
You do not need experience in every area. We’ll provide training and support to help you succeed in your assignment.
Where You Could Work
  • Camp Friendship | Annandale, MN
  • Camp Eden Wood | Eden Prairie, MN
  • Camp Courage | Maple Lake, MN
Camp Counselors may work at one, two, or all three of our camp locations during the summer, depending on program needs, assignment, and availability.
Assignment Types amp; Responsibilities
  • Cabin-Focused Assignments - Some Camp Counselors will typically work with the same cabin group throughout the week, going with them to activities and meals, and supporting them throughout their stay, including providing overnight as needed. Typical start dates are from early to mid-June.
  • Activities-Focused Assignments - Some Camp Counselors may have an assignment focused primarily on leading and facilitating activities rather than working primarily with a specific cabin or camper group. Typical start dates are late-May.
Activities may include:
  • High Ropes and challenge activities
  • Team-building games
  • Arts and crafts
  • Adaptive archery
  • Outdoor recreation
  • Sports and games
  • Aquatics
  • Other specialized or adaptive activities
Training may be provided based on the activity and assignment.
Your specific responsibilities will depend on your assignment and may include:
  • Create a safe, welcoming, inclusive, and supportive environment for campers
  • Build meaningful relationships and encourage participation and connection
  • Support campers' social, emotional, and physical needs
  • Encourage independence, confidence, teamwork, and personal growth
  • Lead or assist with camp activities and programs
  • Adapt activities and approaches to meet individual camper needs
  • Provide supervision and maintain awareness of camper safety
  • Support activities of daily living and personal care when required by the assignment
  • Work collaboratively with other counselors and camp staff
  • Participate in required staff training and program activities
Why You'll Love It
  • Make a difference: Help create meaningful experiences that build confidence, independence, and connection
  • Build relationships: Form genuine connections with campers and fellow staff
  • Try something new: Get outside your comfort zone and discover new skills and interests
  • Bring your strengths: Whether you're an athlete, artist, outdoor enthusiast, caregiver, or just someone who loves helping others
  • Be part of something bigger: Your work directly supports the True Friends mission and helps make camp possible

What You’ll Gain

  • Leadership experience: Build confidence leading activities, supporting individuals, and working as part of a team
  • Real-world experience: Develop skills in communication, teamwork, problem-solving, caregiving, recreation, and working with individuals with disabilities
  • Personal growth: Step outside your comfort zone, take on new challenges, and discover strengths you may not have known you had
  • Transferable skills: Gain experience that can apply to future careers in education, healthcare, human services, recreation, childcare, social work, and many other fields
  • Meaningful connections: Build relationships with campers, families, and fellow staff that can last well beyond the summer
  • A summer you’ll remember: Spend your summer doing meaningful work, trying new things, and being part of a community that makes a difference
Schedule
  • All hired staff complete a minimum of one week of orientation before working with campers
  • Most camp sessions run Sunday through Friday, approximately 5.5 days per week
  • Staff may be asked to provide evening or overnight support as needed based on camper and program needs
  • Staff receive scheduled time off between sessions, and when applicable during sessions
  • Specific schedules and time commitments vary by assignment and location
What You'll Bring to the Table
  • Must be at least 16 years old for Counselor in Training roles
  • Must be at least 18 years old for Cabin and Activities Counselor roles
  • Must be able to pass the required organizational background study
  • Passion for making a difference in the lives of others
  • Willingness to step outside your comfort zone and try new things
  • Comfortable working with and supporting individuals with a range of abilities and needs
  • Willingness to learn and, depending on assignment, provide personal care and ADL support
  • Ability to coach, encourage, and lead individuals and groups
  • Strong work ethic and willingness to take initiative
  • Flexibility and adaptability in an ever-changing environment
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a team
Highly valued, but not required: Previous camp experience; experience working with children or adults with disabilities; experience in recreation, education, healthcare, human services, childcare, or related fields; CPR/First Aid or Lifeguard certification; high ropes or challenge course experience; adaptive recreation experience; or specialized skills, hobbies, or talents you can bring to camp.
Work Environment amp; Physical Requirements
The work environment and physical requirements vary by assignment. Camp Counselors should be prepared to:
  • Work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions, including heat, cold, and rain
  • Spend extended periods standing, walking, sitting, and participating in activities with campers
  • Bend, reach, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, and move throughout the workday
  • See, hear, and communicate verbally with campers and team members
  • Lift and/or carry up to 50 pounds, depending on assignment
  • Participate in recreational, physical, and outdoor activities
  • Live and work in a communal environment for residential assignments
  • Work extended or variable hours, including evenings and overnight shifts, for residential assignments
  • Wear a safety harness and participate in high ropes or challenge activities if assigned to those duties
Specific physical demands, schedules, and environmental conditions will depend on the assigned program.
Compensation
Summer Camp Counselors are paid a daily stipend rate based on their role and experience.
  • First year counselors: $59/day
  • Returning counselors: Eligible for increased daily rate based on previous True Friends experiences, plus an early signing bonus when applicable
  • Summer Commitment bonus: Eligible exempt (stipend paid) residential staff who complete their full agreement and remain in good standing may earn an additional bonus based on the number of weeks worked. Bonus eligibility begins at 6 weeks:
    • 6-7 weeks worked | additional $60 per week worked
    • 8-9 weeks worked | additional $70 per week worked
    • 10-11 weeks worked | additional $80 per week worked
    • 12-14 weeks worked | additional $90 per week worked
  • Meals and lodging included
Find Your Fit
There are many ways to be a Camp Counselor at True Friends. During the application and prescreen process, we'll ask about your program preferences, availability, experience, comfort with personal care and overnight camp, activity interests, and other strengths.
We'll use that information, along with program needs, to help determine the Camp Counselor assignment that is the best fit for you.
Bring your energy. Bring your creativity. Bring your willingness to try something new. We'll help you find your place at camp!

Apply