Summer Camp Jobs at Cub Creek Science Camp

Looking for a summer camp job that's anything but ordinary? Cub Creek Science Camp hires approximately 100 summer staff each year to work at our residential summer camp in the Missouri Ozarks. Our staff work with kids while gaining hands-on experience in animal care, science, outdoor adventure, education, recreation, and more.

Cub Creek is especially unique for anyone interested in animals. Our camp is home to more than 300 animals representing over 100 species, giving staff opportunities that simply aren't available at a typical summer camp. Whether you're studying education, animal science, biology, recreation, psychology, or simply looking for a meaningful summer job, you'll gain real-world experience while helping create an unforgettable summer for our campers.

Why work at Cub Creek Science Camp?

Let's be upfront: working at summer camp is hard work. The days are active, the hours can be long, and you'll have real responsibility for the campers in your care. But how many summer jobs pay you to spend your days making friendship bracelets, hanging out with animals, swimming, dressing up like a dinosaur, competing in lip sync battles, laughing, dancing, and singing camp songs?

A summer camp job is also an opportunity to do something that matters. You'll become a role model, help kids try things they never thought they could do, and create the kind of moments campers remember long after they go home. Along the way, you'll develop real-world skills in leadership, communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and working with children.

And then there are the friendships. You'll live and work alongside other summer camp staff from across the country and around the world. These are the people who will understand why you stayed up ridiculously late decorating a cabin for a camper's 13th birthday—and years later, that story might just make its way into a speech at your camp friend's wedding.

At Cub Creek, you don't have to choose between gaining experience and having an incredible summer. You can build skills in areas related to your career, strengthen your résumé, make a difference in the lives of kids, and have a summer unlike anything you'll find at a typical job.

So why spend your summer doing ordinary?

Who We're Looking For

There isn't one personality type that makes a great camp staff member. Our team includes introverts and extroverts, early risers and night owls, natural entertainers and quiet listeners. What matters most is how you treat other people and whether you're willing to contribute to the camp community.

We're looking for people who are positive, caring, dependable, creative, and willing to learn. You should be able to communicate respectfully, accept feedback, follow directions, take initiative, and work as part of a team. Most importantly, you need to genuinely enjoy working with kids.

An interest in animals, science, education, recreation, or the outdoors is certainly a plus. However, you don't need to arrive as an expert. We'll teach you many of the skills you'll need during staff training.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and be able to successfully complete a background check.

What to Expect as a Summer Camp Staff Member

Working at a residential summer camp is different from most summer jobs. You'll live where you work, spend much of your day with campers and coworkers, and become part of a community that depends on everyone doing their part.

• Put campers first. Parents trust us with their children. Camper health, safety, well-being, and happiness must remain a priority throughout the summer.
• Bring a positive attitude. Yes, you really will sing camp songs. You may also dress up, dance, cheer, be silly, and participate in activities outside your comfort zone. Your enthusiasm helps create the camp experience for our campers.
• Take the job seriously. Camp is fun, but working at camp is still a job with significant responsibility. Staff must follow our Code of Conduct and camp policies, respect coworkers and facilities, and understand that campers are watching the example we set.
• Be prepared to be active. Camp covers a lot of ground, and staff routinely walk several miles during a normal day. You don't need to be an athlete, but you should be comfortable with the physical activity involved in camp life.
• Be comfortable spending time outdoors. Some activities take place indoors, but much of camp happens outside. Missouri summers include sunshine, heat, humidity, rain, bugs, campfires, and changing temperatures.
• Appreciate animals. Animals are a major part of Cub Creek, even if your particular job doesn't involve animal care. You don't have to be comfortable handling every species, but all staff members should respect and appreciate the animals that share camp with us.