I’m Ready For A Fun Summer! How Do I Apply?
Work Where Summer Actually Matters
Join The Fun Professionals at Tate’s Day Camp
At Tate’s Day Camp, our staff—known as The Fun Professionals—create unforgettable summers for children while gaining real leadership experience, confidence, and lifelong memories of their own.
Every summer, our camp comes alive because of the people who work here. Staff members lead activities, build relationships, solve problems, laugh a lot, and play a meaningful role in the lives of campers and families.
If you enjoy working outdoors, value teamwork, and want a summer job that actually means something, you might be a great fit at Tate’s.
No previous camp experience is required. Many of our best staff members are first-time counselors — we provide training, support, and leadership every step of the way.
We build people up — we never tear them down.
Is This Job Right for You?
You might be a great fit at Tate’s Day Camp if you:
- Enjoy working with children and being active
- Like being part of a positive, energetic team
- Want to grow as a leader and role model
- Are dependable, engaged, and ready to show up
- Want a summer experience that’s more than just a paycheck
What It’s Like to Work at Tate’s
Working at Tate’s Day Camp means:
- Being part of a supportive, encouraging team
- Creating fun, safe, and meaningful experiences for campers
- Learning leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
- Being trusted with real responsibility
- Having high expectations—and the support to meet them
We take our responsibility to children seriously, and we also believe summer should be fun, positive, and memorable for everyone involved.
How to Get Started
Getting started is simple:
- Explore our open positions
- Learn what working at Tate’s is like
- Apply online
- Complete interviews, screening, and training
Questions We Hear a Lot
Do I need previous camp or childcare experience?
No. Previous experience is helpful, but it is not required. Many of our best staff members are first-time counselors or instructors. We hire for attitude, responsibility, and a willingness to learn — and we provide training, support, and leadership every step of the way.
What kind of training do you provide?
All staff participate in paid training before campers arrive. Training covers safety, camper supervision, communication, expectations, and role-specific skills. You won’t be thrown in without preparation — we want you to feel confident and supported from day one.
What if I make a mistake?
Mistakes happen — especially when you’re learning. Tate’s is a supportive environment where staff are coached, guided, and helped to improve. We believe in building people up, not tearing them down.
What are the typical work hours?
Most full-time staff work Monday through Friday during the camp day, averaging approximately 37.5–40 hours per week. Part-time staff typically work weekday afternoons. Specific schedules and expectations are reviewed during the interview process so there are no surprises.
Are there required meetings or events outside regular camp hours?
Yes. Staff attend paid training before camp begins and a small number of required staff meetings during the summer. These meetings are typically held on Thursdays and are scheduled in advance.
How does pay work?
Staff are paid an hourly wage starting at $14.00 per hour, with paid training included. Lunch is provided during the camp day for staff working full shifts. Most full-time staff work Monday through Friday during regular camp hours, while part-time staff typically work weekday afternoons.
👉 View our 2026 Staff Dates, Training & Pay Overview (PDF)
Can I apply for more than one position?
Yes. On the application, you may select multiple positions you’re interested in. Final placement is determined after interviews based on experience, flexibility, and camp needs.
What if I’ve never worked with this age group before?
That’s okay. We place staff thoughtfully and provide guidance to help you succeed. Many staff discover new strengths working with age groups they hadn’t considered before.
Is Tate’s a good place for future teachers, coaches, or youth leaders?
Absolutely. Many former staff members credit their time at Tate’s with helping them grow as leaders, communicators, and role models — skills that transfer well beyond camp.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Open Positions
Tate’s Day Camp hires a wide range of seasonal staff each summer to help create a safe, fun, and meaningful experience for our campers. Whether you enjoy leading activities, teaching a skill, working with children, or supporting families behind the scenes, there’s a role for you at Tate’s.
Experience working with children is not required. We’re looking for energy, responsibility, and a willingness to learn — we’ll teach you the rest.
Below is an overview of our 2026 positions. Review the roles that interest you, then head to the Job Descriptions tab for full details.
Camp Counselor
Camp Counselors are the heartbeat of Tate’s Day Camp. Counselors work directly with campers, lead activities, build relationships, and help create a positive group experience every day.
Note: On the application, you may indicate interest in Camp Counselor, Special Forces, or both. Final placement is determined after interviews based on experience, flexibility, and camp needs.
Lifeguards & Swim Instructors
Lifeguards at Tate’s also serve as Swim Instructors. You’ll help keep campers safe while teaching swim skills and confidence in and around the water. If you need certification, we cover the cost to become certified.
RATT Pack Instructors
RATT Pack staff lead some of the most exciting areas of camp—challenge course and target sports. This includes Climbing Tower, Zipline, Tree Climbing, and Archery. If you love being outdoors, teaching skills, and helping kids build courage, this may be your spot. We will provide the training and certification needed to lead these areas.
Arts & Crafts Instructors
Arts & Crafts Instructors bring creativity to life through hands-on projects and weekly themed activities. This role is great for organized, patient, creative staff who enjoy helping campers feel proud of what they make.
Nature / Environmental Education Instructors
Nature Instructors help campers explore the outdoors through hands-on learning, discovery, and adventure. This role is perfect for someone who loves nature, enjoys teaching, and wants to bring curiosity and confidence to life in the woods.
Special Forces
The Special Forces team is made up of adaptable, dependable staff who step in where coverage is needed. Special Forces team members work in different units and age groups throughout the summer and help camp run smoothly when schedules shift.
Note: On the application, you may indicate interest in Camp Counselor, Special Forces, or both. Final placement is determined after interviews based on experience, flexibility, and camp needs.
Welcome Center / Guest Services
The Welcome Center team is the first face families see each day if they need to drop their camper off late or pick their camper up early. This role helps families with directions and questions, and supports daily operations—bringing the warmth and professionalism of “The Fun Professionals” to every interaction.
Office Assistant
The Office Assistant supports the camp’s administrative team by helping parents, staff, and directors with communication and organization. This is a great fit for someone who is upbeat, dependable, detail-oriented, and enjoys helping people.
Leadership & Growth Opportunities
Tate’s Day Camp is led by an experienced team of directors and program leaders who support staff, guide daily operations, and ensure a safe, positive camp environment.
While leadership positions for the 2026 season are already filled, many of our leaders began their journey at Tate’s as camp counselors or specialty staff. Tate’s values growth from within and provides opportunities for returning staff to take on additional responsibility and leadership over time.
Next steps:
▶ Visit the Job Descriptions tab to review full role details
▶ Apply online and select the positions that interest you
Job Descriptions
Tate’s Day Camp offers a variety of seasonal positions, each playing an important role in creating a safe, fun, and meaningful summer for our campers.
Below you’ll find a brief overview of each position along with a link to the full job description. You may select multiple positions when you apply.
Camp Counselor
Camp Counselors are the heart of Tate’s Day Camp. Counselors work directly with campers to lead activities, build relationships, and help children feel safe, included, and excited every day.
View Full Camp Counselor Job Description (PDF)
Lifeguards & Swim Instructors
Lifeguards at Tate’s also serve as Swim Instructors, helping campers build confidence and skills in and around the water while maintaining a safe aquatic environment.
View Lifeguard & Swim Instructor Job Description (PDF)
RATT Pack Instructors
RATT Pack Instructors lead adventure-based activities including the climbing tower, zipline, tree climbing, and archery—helping campers build courage, confidence, and resilience.
View RATT Pack Instructor Job Description (PDF)
Arts & Crafts Instructors
Arts & Crafts Instructors design and lead hands-on creative projects that help campers explore imagination, creativity, and self-expression in a supportive environment.
View Arts & Crafts Instructor Job Description (PDF)
Nature / Environmental Education Instructors
Nature Instructors guide campers through outdoor exploration and hands-on learning, helping them develop curiosity, confidence, and respect for the natural world.
View Nature Instructor Job Description (PDF)
Special Forces
Special Forces team members provide flexible support across camp by stepping into different units and roles as needed, helping camp operations run smoothly each day.
View Special Forces Job Description (PDF)
Welcome Center / Guest Services
Welcome Center staff are the friendly, professional first point of contact for families, helping manage arrival, departure, and daily communication.
View Welcome Center Job Description (PDF)
Office Assistant
Office Assistants support camp operations behind the scenes by assisting with communication, organization, and administrative tasks during the busy camp season.
View Office Assistant Job Description (PDF)
Next steps:
▶ Apply online and select the positions that interest you
What We Expect
At Tate’s Day Camp, we take our responsibility to children seriously — and we take care of our staff, too. Working here means being part of a professional, positive, and supportive team that believes summer should be meaningful, fun, and safe for everyone involved.
We call our staff The Fun Professionals because we believe you can bring energy and joy to your work while also showing responsibility, maturity, and care.
We build people up — we never tear them down.
Our Expectations of Staff
While each role at Tate’s is different, all staff members are expected to:
- Put safety first — follow camp procedures and supervise campers attentively
- Be reliable — arrive on time, prepared, and ready to engage
- Communicate professionally — with campers, families, and fellow staff
- Model positive behavior — kindness, respect, patience, and fairness
- Support the team — step in, help out, and work together
- Bring energy and enthusiasm — summer is better when you’re fully present
You don’t need to be perfect. You do need to be willing to learn, accept feedback, and grow.
What You Can Expect From Tate’s
We believe great staff performance starts with great support. When you work at Tate’s, you can expect:
- Clear training and preparation before campers arrive
- Supportive leadership that is present, approachable, and engaged
- Fair expectations that are communicated clearly
- A positive work environment where effort and professionalism are valued
- Opportunities to grow through experience, responsibility, and feedback
Many of our returning staff and leaders began their journey at Tate’s in entry-level roles. We value commitment, consistency, and growth from within.
Policies & Professional Standards
This page provides an overview of what working at Tate’s is like. Our full Personnel Policies outline specific expectations, procedures, and guidelines
and are reviewed during the hiring and onboarding process.
We encourage all applicants to review the Personnel Policies to better understand how Tate’s Day Camp operates.
Next steps:
▶ Review the Personnel Policies
▶ Apply online when you’re ready
Personnel Policies
These Personnel Policies outline the expectations, standards, and procedures that guide employment at Tate’s Day Camp. They exist to help ensure a safe, respectful, and positive environment for campers, families, and staff.
This page is provided so applicants can clearly understand how Tate’s operates. Full policies are reviewed in detail during hiring and onboarding.
Our Commitment to Safety, Professionalism & Fun
Tate’s Day Camp is committed to maintaining a safe, supportive, and engaging environment. Staff members are expected to act professionally, communicate respectfully, and model positive behavior at all times.
Equal Opportunity & Employment Status
Tate’s Day Camp is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age, disability, or genetic information. Employment at Tate’s is at-will.
Orientation & Training
Orientation and training are required for all staff members and include safety procedures, supervision expectations, communication standards, and role-specific responsibilities.
Attendance, Scheduling & Time Off
Staff members are expected to arrive on time, prepared, and ready to engage. Limited unpaid vacation may be requested in advance according to camp guidelines. Special event expectations are communicated before the season begins.
Professional Communication & Conduct
Professional, respectful communication is expected at all times. Gossip, harassment, inappropriate language, and negative behavior are not acceptable. Staff members are expected to address concerns directly with leadership.
Technology & Phone Use
Personal phone use is not permitted during work hours. Phones must remain put away while supervising campers.
Dress Code & Appearance
Staff members are expected to wear designated staff uniforms and maintain an appearance appropriate for working with children in an outdoor environment.
Health, Safety & Substance Use
Drinking, possessing, or using alcohol or illegal drugs while at camp is strictly prohibited. Staff members must never report to work under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Confidentiality
All camper, staff, and family information must be kept confidential and shared only with authorized personnel.
Background Screening & Drug Testing
All staff members must successfully complete a background check and drug test as a condition of employment. Random testing may occur.
Your Responsibility to the Camp Community
Every staff member plays an important role in shaping the camp experience. Staff are expected to support campers, coworkers, and leadership while contributing
positively to the overall camp environment.
These policies are designed to create clarity, consistency, and trust. Questions about policies are welcome and may be addressed during the hiring or onboarding process.
Next steps:
▶ Apply online when you’re ready
Apply
Ready to join The Fun Professionals? We’d love to meet you. Our hiring process is designed to be clear, respectful, and straightforward.
When you apply, you may select multiple positions you’re interested in. We’ll use your application and interview to help determine the best fit for you and for camp.
How the Hiring Process Works
- Submit your online application
- Interview with a member of our leadership team
- Offer & placement (if selected)
- Background check & drug test (required for employment)
- Orientation & training before campers arrive
What to Know Before You Apply
- We hire for character and potential. If you’re energetic, kind, dependable, and ready to learn, we want to hear from you.
- Expectations are clear. We take safety, professionalism, and communication seriously — and we provide training and leadership support to help you succeed.
- Screening is required. All staff must successfully complete a background check and drug test as a condition of employment.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Complete the online application and our team will follow up with next steps.
If you have questions before applying, please reach out and we’ll be glad to help.
Staff Onboarding (After Hire)
This section is for hired and returning staff members only. If you have not yet received an official offer of employment from Tate’s Day Camp,
you do not need to complete any forms at this time.
Once you are hired, you will receive step-by-step instructions and deadlines. Most onboarding items are completed through your Staff Portal (available after your offer is issued) and through email communication from our office and payroll team.
Most staff complete onboarding by following emailed instructions. This page is provided as a general reference only.
What Happens After You’re Hired
1) Staff Portal Forms (Available After Hire)
After you receive an offer of employment, you will be emailed instructions to return to your application portal (Staff Portal) to complete required onboarding forms, including:
- Health & Medical Information
- Emergency Contact Information
These items are only viewable after an offer has been issued.
2) Background Screening & Drug Testing
Background screening is completed through a third-party provider. If you are hired, you will receive an email invitation with instructions for completing your screening.
Drug testing is completed through our local testing provider. If you are hired, we will provide you with instructions and location details.
Applicants under age 18: A parent/guardian HIPAA authorization form is required. Instructions will be provided after hire.
3) Payroll & Direct Deposit
Payroll onboarding and direct deposit setup are handled by our bookkeeper via email after you are hired. You will receive all required documentation and instructions directly from our payroll team.
Questions?
If you have questions about onboarding steps or deadlines after you’ve been hired, please contact the camp office. If you are a prospective applicant, please visit the Apply tab to get started.
Need More Information?
We know there are often lots of questions about how this all works. We would be glad to answer any questions you may have or to send you more information. Simply fill out the form below and click on the Submit button. We will get back to you shortly.