The secret to UC Berkeley Youth Recreation’s legacy of excellence is our dedicated staff.
We employ hundreds of local teenagers, college students, recent graduates, and adults as instructors, camp counselors, and counselors-in-training each year. They enjoy an inclusive work environment while building work skills and leadership skills that help prepare them for any future career path.
While participants learn from the instructors and year-round employees, our counselors and instructors are learning essential work skills such as communication, conflict resolution, professionalism, teamwork, and leadership — all skills the National Association of Colleges and Employers lists under their top 10 competencies desired by employers.
UC Berkeley Youth Recreation’s staff positions are posted online to Handshake for college students and Talent Acquisition for all other applicants. Please note that not all summer camp positions are posted on Talent Acquisition. If you’re interested in a specific role, feel free to contact the camp supervisor for more information. If you want to learn more, each position below lists its job description, its Handshake and Talent Acquisition posting’s job identification number, and supervisor contact information.
Summer 2026 Camp Staff Positions
- Aquatic & Swim Instructorsadd
Summer Swim Lesson Instructor (Talent Acquisition #: 83705)
Swim instructors provide instruction in swimming techniques, skills, and water safety to participants in the Summer Camps. Swim instructors are supervised by the Aquatic Coordinator and the Aquatics Director. Applicants must be able to relate well to children. Swim Instructors must also be able to exercise good judgment and safely supervise children. Applicants must have the sensory abilities (e.g. hearing, seeing) necessary to perform the duties of the position. Previous experience as a swimming instructor is also preferred.
Summer Swim Lesson Coordinator (Talent Acquisition #: 83704)
The Swim Lesson Coordinator is responsible for maintaining staff schedules and assigning group and private lessons. They ensure classes start and end on time and that high-quality instruction is delivered, assist with coordinating aquatic programs (group, private, and camp), and also teach swim lessons as needed. In this role, the coordinator provides evaluations and feedback to staff. As coordinator, there is regular email and phone correspondence with parents & staff to maintain an organized program. Standard Adult/Pediatric First Aid and CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers is required.
- Summer Life Guard Roleadd
THIS POSTING IS FOR SUMMER LIFEGUARDS. Lifeguard Season: May 15, 2026 - August 31, 2026
Summer Lifeguard (Talent Acquisition #: 83702)
Summer Lifeguards maintain proper and professional surveillance of the pool and its patrons, and provide information, assistance, and service to guests, make appropriate referrals, resolve conflicts, and enforce safety rules and regulations governing the use of swimming areas. Lifeguards must administer first aid and basic life support, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation as necessary, and perform appropriate follow-up care. Applicants must possess an American Red Cross Advanced Lifesaving Certificate, a current CPR and AED certification, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Blue Camp - General Staff & Leadership Team Rolesadd
Group Leader/Instructor (Handshake #10628417, Talent Acquisition #: 83482)
Group Leaders and Instructors are responsible for effective group management, activity instruction, and providing mentorship to summer campers. They create a positive and inclusive atmosphere by leading engaging activities, supporting campers' social and emotional development, and fostering relationships that promote teamwork and community. They encourage growth, provide constructive feedback, and help campers navigate challenges, ensuring a safe, supportive, and enriching experience.
Junior Counselor (Talent Acquisition #: 83484)
Junior Counselors (JCs), ages 16-17, are paid staff members who develop leadership and professional skills through hands-on responsibilities, mentorship, and opportunities to lead activities. In this role, they gain valuable experience by supervising campers, assisting with camp operations, and leading group activities. This position prepares them for future roles as Group Leaders and Instructors by helping them build confidence, improve communication skills, and develop a strong understanding of camp management and leadership.
Counselors-in-Training (Volunteer Role)
Counselors-in-Training (CITs), age 15, are teens who participate in a volunteer program designed to help them build foundational leadership skills. Through hands-on experience with children and camp activities, CITs learn the essential responsibilities of being a camp counselor, such as supervising campers, assisting with activities, and fostering a positive, supportive environment. This program prepares them for future roles as Junior Counselors by giving them the opportunity to develop confidence, teamwork, and communication skills in a real-world camp setting.
*How to Apply to be a CIT: Apply via Application
Youth Archery Instructor (Handshake #10724098)
Youth Archery Instructors foster a passion for the sport by creating a fun, inclusive environment where youth participants develop foundational skills through the USAA NTS framework. Beyond technical instruction, they are responsible for maintaining a rigorous standard of safety on the range and collaborating with the Leadership Team to design progressive, age-appropriate lesson plans. By integrating core camp values into engaging, game-based activities, instructors help campers build confidence and discipline while ensuring maximum participation and a supportive experience for all skill levels.
Camp Lead (Talent Acquisition #: 83473)
Camp Leads play a key role on the summer camp leadership team. They assist the Youth Programs Coordinator in overseeing their respective camp, manage staff, create schedules, develop activities, and maintain communication with parents/guardians and families. Camp Leads handle complex tasks, applying specialized skills to meet program needs. They also mentor and evaluate Group Leaders/Instructors, Junior Counselors, and Counselors-in-Training, provide instruction, and demonstrate initiative to resolve issues and ensure the success of the program. At Blue Camp, there are two Camp Leads—one for the Cubs program and one for the Bears/Grizzlies program.
Cubs Camp Lead (Handshake #: 10623960)
Camp Leads play a key role on the summer camp leadership team. They assist the Youth Programs Coordinator in overseeing their respective camp, manage staff, create schedules, develop activities, and maintain communication with parents/guardians and families. Camp Leads handle complex tasks, applying specialized skills to meet program needs. They also mentor and evaluate Group Leaders/Instructors, Junior Counselors, and Counselors-in-Training, provide instruction, and demonstrate initiative to resolve issues and ensure the success of the program. At Blue Camp, there are two Camp Leads—one for the Cubs program and one for the Bears/Grizzlies program.
Assistant Cubs Camp Lead (Handshake #: 10623968)
Assistant Camp Leads provide direct support to the Camp Leads within their assigned program. They are responsible for supporting and coaching all staff who report to the Camp Lead and assisting the Camp Lead with managing their assigned camp program. Assistant Camp Leads are second responders to incidents that require camper behavior/discipline response. They are also responsible for providing immediate support to program staff, providing instruction in recreational or sports activities that require specialized or advanced training to participants of all ages, and assisting with staff training and staff professional development, including evaluations.
Assistant Bears/Grizzlies Camp Lead (Handshake #: 10625591)
Assistant Bears/Grizzlies Camp Leads provide direct support to the Camp Leads within their assigned program. They are responsible for supporting and coaching all staff who report to the Camp Lead and assisting the Camp Lead with managing their assigned camp program. Assistant Bears/Grizzlies Camp Leads are second responders to incidents that require camper behavior/discipline response. They are also responsible for providing immediate support to program staff, providing instruction in recreational or sports activities that require specialized or advanced training to participants of all ages, and assisting with staff training and staff professional development, including evaluations.
Inclusion Lead (Handshake #: 10630500)
Inclusion Leads report directly to the Youth Wellbeing & Inclusion Coordinator and work closely with the Youth Program Supervisor and Camp Leads at their assigned camp. They help manage a team of behavioral Interventionists, coordinating their deployment throughout the camp day, providing direct support, and serving as the primary communication link between the camp and parents/guardians regarding behavioral accommodations or concerns. Inclusion Leads ensure a seamless experience for campers by fostering collaboration among staff and maintaining clear communication with families to prevent any miscommunication.
Operations & Grounds Assistant (Handshake #: 10628393)
The Operations & Grounds Assistant's responsibilities lie in the set up, take down, and maintenance of equipment and facility grounds. In the interim, the Grounds Assistant keeps equipment inventory up to date, performs any maintenance that may be needed, and assists instructional and operational staff. In addition, as the bulk of the Grounds Assistant’s daily tasks take place during the beginning and end of the camp day, they are expected to spend part of their day assisting in the running of camp in either an instructional or supervisory capacity.
JC/CIT Lead (Handshake #: 10625633)
The JC/CIT Lead is responsible for managing the schedules of Junior Counselors and Counselors-in-Training, ensuring they are appropriately assigned and adjusted as needed throughout the session. They also provide feedback and guidance to help junior staff develop their skills. This includes weekly check-in meetings, team-building exercises, and conducting end-of-summer evaluations. Since many junior staff members are high schoolers with limited job experience, this position also involves modeling professional behavior and helping staff learn how to interact with supervisors and develop into effective, professional team members.
Campers in Leadership Training (CILT) Assistant (Handshake #: 10625674)
The CILT Coordinator oversees the Campers in Leadership Training (CILT) program, focusing on teaching leadership, job skills, and professionalism to teens in grades 8-10. They provide daily guidance and feedback to CILTs, helping them build communication, problem-solving, and confidence through activities like team-building games, mock interviews, and resume writing. The Coordinator also monitors CILT behavior, ensures they exhibit professional conduct around younger campers, and maintains communication with parents/guardians regarding any behavioral concerns. Additionally, the CILT Coordinator supports staff training, facilitates camp activities, and ensures the safety and well-being of all CILTs while promoting their engagement in the program.
Administrative Assistant (Handshake #: 10628408)
Administrative Assistants provide essential support by helping with camp schedules, clerical tasks, and customer service. They manage office paperwork, including rosters, accident reports, and staff evaluations, and ensure it is processed accurately and on time. Administrative Assistants respond to inquiries from parents/guardians and the community, handle phone calls and emails, and assist camp staff with submitting necessary paperwork. They also support minor operations tasks, maintain office organization and safety, and ensure clear communication with camp leadership to avoid conflicting messages with parents/guardians.
Questions about Blue Camp Staff Hiring? Contact:Derika Braunstein, Youth Programs Coordinator (dbraunstein@berkeley.edu) - Explorer Camp - General Staff & Leadership Team Rolesadd
Group Leader/Instructor (Handshake #: 10630538, Talent Acquisition #: 83475)
Group Leaders and Instructors are responsible for effective group management, activity instruction, and providing mentorship to summer campers. They create a positive and inclusive atmosphere by leading engaging activities, supporting campers' social and emotional development, and fostering relationships that promote teamwork and community. They encourage growth, provide constructive feedback, and help campers navigate challenges, ensuring a safe, supportive, and enriching experience.
Junior Counselor (Talent Acquisition #: 83242)
Junior Counselors (JCs), ages 16-17, are paid staff members who develop leadership and professional skills through hands-on responsibilities, mentorship, and opportunities to lead activities. In this role, they gain valuable experience by supervising campers, assisting with camp operations, and leading group activities. This position prepares them for future roles as Group Leaders and Instructors by helping them build confidence, improve communication skills, and develop a strong understanding of camp management and leadership.
Counselors-in-Training (Volunteer Role)
Counselors-in-Training (CITs), age 15, are teens who participate in a volunteer program designed to help them build foundational leadership skills. Through hands-on experience with children and camp activities, CITs learn the essential responsibilities of being a camp counselor, such as supervising campers, assisting with activities, and fostering a positive, supportive environment. This program prepares them for future roles as Junior Counselors by giving them the opportunity to develop confidence, teamwork, and communication skills in a real-world camp setting.
*How to Apply to be a CIT: Apply via Application
JC/CIT Lead (Handshake #: 10630480)
The JC/CIT Lead is responsible for managing the schedules of Junior Counselors and Counselors-in-Training, ensuring they are appropriately assigned and adjusted as needed throughout the session. They also provide feedback and guidance to help junior staff develop their skills. This includes weekly check-in meetings, team-building exercises, and conducting end-of-summer evaluations. Since many junior staff members are high schoolers with limited job experience, this position also involves modeling professional behavior and helping staff learn how to interact with supervisors and develop into effective, professional team members.
Camp Lead (Handshake #: 10630400, Talent Acquisition #: 83473)
Camp Leads play a key role on the summer camp leadership team. They assist the Youth Programs Coordinator in overseeing their respective camp, manage staff, create schedules, develop activities, and maintain communication with parents/guardians and families. Camp Leads handle complex tasks, applying specialized skills to meet program needs. They also mentor and evaluate Group Leaders/Instructors, Junior Counselors, and Counselors-in-Training, provide instruction, and demonstrate initiative to resolve issues and ensure the success of the program. At Blue Camp, there are two Camp Leads—one for the Cubs program and one for the Bears/Grizzlies program.
Assistant Camp Lead (Handshake #: 10630453)
Assistant Camp Leads provide essential support to the Camp Lead in managing their assigned program, ensuring a safe and engaging environment for campers. They assist with staff supervision, address camper behavior, and may step in to provide instruction when needed. Additionally, they help with staff training, professional development, and evaluations. Acting as a key support to the Camp Lead, Assistant Camp Leads take initiative to resolve issues and contribute to the overall success of the program.
Inclusion Lead (Handshake #: 10630500)
Inclusion Leads report directly to the Youth Wellbeing & Inclusion Coordinator and work closely with the Youth Programs Supervisor and Camp Leads at their assigned camp. They help manage a team of behavioral Interventionists, coordinating their deployment throughout the camp day, providing direct support, and serving as the primary communication link between the camp and parents/guardians regarding behavioral accommodations or concerns. Inclusion Leads ensure a seamless experience for campers by fostering collaboration among staff and maintaining clear communication with families to prevent any miscommunication.
Questions About Explorer Camp Staff Hiring? Contact:Kaitlyn Dividock, Interim Associate Director, Youth Programs (kaitlyndividock@berkeley.edu) - Adventures Camp - General Staff & Leadership Team Rolesadd
Adventures Program Lead (Talent Acquisition #: 83475)
The Adventures Program Lead oversees several seasonal youth programs, with a primary focus on summer camps. They handle staff hiring, training, scheduling, and performance evaluations, while also managing camp operations and inventory. They ensure safety through risk management and adherence to campus policies. Additionally, the Program Lead develops, implements, and evaluates camp activities and manages all aspects of assigned youth programs to ensure a high-quality and cohesive staff, volunteer, and participant experience.
Adventures Youth Program Instructor (Talent Acquisition #: 84057)
Adventures Youth Program Instructors provide specialized instruction to recreational program participants in individual and group settings and creates a supportive, inclusive environment that encourages participation and positive engagement. They lead and mentor counselors or instructors as needed, offering guidance on best practices and program techniques, as well as maintain professional relationships with participants and staff while contributing to an empowering work environment.
- Behavioral Interventionist Roleadd
Behavioral Interventionist (Handshake #: 10630555, Talent Acquisition #: 83735)
Behavioral Interventionists use a “push-in” method of support, where they join different groups or activities throughout the day, depending on which campers need more support. They model and assist in nurturing healthy relationships using the values of Social Emotional Learning and Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports to accommodate campers and staff. The goal of a Behavioral Interventionist is to increase the felt sense of belonging of all campers, support the fellow counselors in increasing confidence in positively supporting campers who are struggling, and reduce the number of campers adversely affected by punitive disciplinary processes.
Year-Round Staff Positions
- Berkeley Youth Skateboarding InstructoraddYouth Skateboarding Instructor (Talent Acquisition #: 83736)The Berkeley Youth Skateboarding Program offers classes for children 5 - 18 years. Classes range from entry-level to competitive-level and operate at our skatepark at the Clark Kerr Campus. Skateboarding Instructors provide instruction and support to enrolled recreational and competitive youth participants as assigned. Skateboarding Instructors are further responsible for developing lesson plans that correspond with assigned classes and teams, providing feedback to youth participants, and supporting the upkeep of the skatepark in support of providing a safe and nurturing environment.
Questions About Youth Skateboarding Staff Hiring? Contact:
Sean O'Loughlin, Skate Program Coordinator (sko@berkeley.edu)
- Youth Archery Instructoradd*Program Currently Paused*Youth Archery InstructorYouth Archery Instructors lead instruction for participants ages 8-17 at Youth Archery on Saturdays at the Golden Bear Recreation Center (GBRC) Softball Field. Youth Archery Instructors must have at least a level 1 NTS Instruction certification, as well as strong interpersonal skills to work effectively with youth participants. Applicants must demonstrate sound judgement and attention to detail in order to ensure the safety of youth participants. Youth Archery Instructors must also have the sensory abilities (e.g. hearing, seeing) necessary to perform the duties of the position required.Questions About Youth Archery Staff Hiring? Contact:Kaitlyn Dividock, Interim Associate Director, Youth Programs (kaitlyndividock@berkeley.edu)Derika Braunstein, Youth Programs Coordinator (dbraunstein@berkeley.edu)
- Youth Programs Operations Staffadd
Youth Programs Operations Staff (Handshake #5765375)
Youth Programs Operations staff oversees customer service issues, proshop, youth check-in, follows safety protocols, enforces policies, and helps ensure the Golden Bear Rec Center (GBRC) runs to business needs. The Operations Staff strives to uphold the highest level of professionalism at all times, as their actions and presence are reflected in the Department of Recreation & Wellbeing and Youth Programs.
Questions About Youth Operations Staff Hiring? Contact:Leesa Berahovich, Youth Programs Operations Coordinator (lberahovich@berkeley.edu)
- UC Berkeley Studentsadd
- Apply via Handshake
- Search the listing number noted in the position description above
- Follow steps as prompted
- Non-UC Berkeley Studentsadd
- Visit Talent Acquisition, UC Berkeley's Jobs webpage
- Click on “External Applicants”
- Find the position you’re interested in (i.e. Group Leader/Instructor (Blue Camp))
- Review the job description; click “apply”
- Create a username and password
- Follow steps as prompted
- International Applicants (Non-UC Berkeley Students)add
InterExchange is our official visa partner for hiring international staff. You must apply and interview by March 1, 2025 with UC Berkeley to meet the deadline for a visa through the agency is March 15, 2025.
International staff interested in applying should first apply through the Talent Acquisition, UC Berkeley's Jobs webpage as an external applicant. Upon receiving an offer letter, candidates would then apply for a work visa through InterExchange. We accept both Camp Counselor and Work Travel Visa applicants. Work Travel visas are only eligible to work as Lifeguards.
- Application Resourcesadd
First time applying for a job? Looking to update your resume? Visit UC Berkeley Career Centers' Resume + Cover Letter resource page for samples, videos, and more!
- Resume samples (don't forget to include volunteer experience!)
- How to write a letter of intent
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