Photo courtesy of Covenant Cedars Bible Camp

When you see a summer camp job on a resume, don’t dismiss it as just campfire songs and s’mores. A job at summer camp brings tremendous leadership development and character building.

Here are 5 traits that make former camp staff great hires:

1. Ability to work with a wide variety of people
   Camp staff serve a diverse group—campers, parents and guests—and work hard to make each experience great. As they comfort homesick kids and create unforgettable moments for families, they build empathy, patience and people skills that carry over into any team-based or customer-facing role.
2. Quick problem-solving skills
   At camp, plans often change. Whether camp is getting rained out or an unexpected emergency arises, staff stay calm, think fast and pivot with creative solutions. That’s the kind of mindset you want in a fast-paced work environment.
3. Positive attitude
   Some camp days are exhausting and staff miss home. But they bounce back, take care of themselves and show up with a positive attitude, ready to serve. That kind of mindset creates an atmosphere where people want to show up every day.
4. Initiative
   Camp staff are trusted with lots of responsibility—and they deliver. They see a need and step in. If you want motivated, proactive team members, look for camp experience.
5. Strong work ethic
   At camp, staff often work 12+ hours a day, including outside in the heat and performing physical tasks. Employees with a camping background have proved they can push through exhaustion and maintain enthusiasm in tough situations.

Hire someone with camp experience, and you’re getting a leader who is confident, adaptable and team-oriented, someone who thrives under pressure and brings energy to every challenge.