Description

Camp Ketcha 

Are you passionate about the natural world and making a difference in the lives of youth? Camp Ketcha is a dynamic outdoor day camp located on 107 acres of fields, woods, marsh, and wetlands in Scarborough, Maine. Each summer, we hire over 90 staff members to support campers through hands-on activities, outdoor exploration, and meaningful community-building experiences. 

Camp Program Area Specialists - Age 18+ - Starting at $17.50/hr

Camp Program Area Specialists are responsible for designing and leading engaging, age-appropriate activities for campers ages 4–14 within their designated specialty area. Specialists play a key role in creating a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment where campers feel supported, challenged, and excited to participate. Through clear instruction, enthusiasm, and thoughtful facilitation, Program Area Specialists help campers build skills, confidence, and curiosity while having fun outdoors. 
In this role, Program Area Specialists plan and lead daily activities that reflect both their area of expertise and Ketcha Outdoors’ mission, adapting lessons to meet the developmental needs, learning styles, and interests of different age groups. Specialists maintain organized, safe, and well-managed program areas, including the care and appropriate use of all equipment and materials. They collaborate closely with other camp staff, communicate clearly and respectfully with campers and colleagues, and support positive behavior using Ketcha’s established expectations and training.

Program Area Specialists are also members of the broader camp community and are expected to assist with general camp operations as needed. Summer camp is a collaborative, fast-paced environment, and this role requires flexibility, teamwork, and a willingness to lend a hand beyond one’s program area to ensure a positive experience for all campers.

To learn more, please visit our WEBSITE.

Camp Ketcha is now hiring the following Program Area Specialist Positions:

Archery 
Archery Specialists introduce campers to safe and age-appropriate archery skills, focusing on proper technique, focus, and respect for equipment while fostering confidence and concentration in a supportive setting. (Archery certification provided by Camp Ketcha if needed.) 

Arts & Crafts 
Arts & Crafts Specialists guide campers through creative, hands-on projects across a variety of materials and techniques, encouraging self-expression, creativity, and pride in their work while supporting process over product. 
Environmental Education 
Environmental Education Specialists lead experiential, nature-based learning that helps campers explore ecosystems, wildlife, and environmental stewardship through games, exploration, and inquiry-based activities. 

Farm & Garden 
Farm & Garden Specialists engage campers in hands-on experiences with plants, animals, and sustainable practices, helping them build connections to food systems, agriculture, and the natural world through age-appropriate activities.

Forest Workshop 
Forest Workshop Specialists support creative building and problem-solving using natural and found materials, encouraging imagination, collaboration, and respect for the forest environment while maintaining safe tool and space use.

Music & Drama 
Music & Drama Specialists create fun, inclusive opportunities for campers to explore movement, music, storytelling, and performance, building confidence, cooperation, and self-expression through playful participation. 

Ropes Challenge Course Staff 
Ropes Course Specialists facilitate low and high challenge course elements with a strong focus on safety, teamwork, and personal growth, supporting campers as they take healthy risks and encourage one another. (Training provided.) 

Outdoor Living Skills 
Outdoor Living Skills Specialists teach foundational outdoor skills such as shelter building, fire safety, navigation, and outdoor ethics, helping campers build confidence, resilience, and comfort in nature. (Training provided.) 

Sports & Games 
Sports & Games Specialists lead active, inclusive games and sports that emphasize teamwork, fair play, and fun, adapting activities to meet the needs and abilities of different age groups. 

To Apply 
Please find our Summer 2026 Staff Application HERE. 

Requirements

Required Job Qualifications 

• Experience working with children and youth.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to plan, prepare, and lead engaging activities and adapt instruction for a range of ages (4–14).
• Commitment to Ketcha Outdoors’ mission, vision, and values.
• Knowledge of and enthusiasm for the assigned program area.
• Ability to maintain a safe environment for yourself, campers, and fellow staff.
• Demonstrated personal integrity and professional conduct.
• Flexibility, reliability, and a positive attitude in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Ability to work independently when needed while collaborating effectively with other staff.
• Comfort leading activities and speaking in front of groups of campers.
• Basic computer literacy, including email communication and simple document use.
• Availability to attend all required staff training dates prior to the start of camp.  
• Completion of Mandated Reporter Training (provided during staff training).
• Current CPR and First Aid certification or willingness to obtain certification prior to the start of employment.

Preferred Job Qualifications 

• Certification, training, or demonstrated expertise related to the program area.
• High school diploma or GED.