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To apply, send resume, cover letter, and unofficial transcripts to CampEmploy@dec.ny.gov Interviews for summer 2026 have begun!

Join our vibrant environmental education team at NYS DEC Summer Camps as a Camp Aide for Summer 2026! This position is perfect for enthusiastic individuals who will have recently graduated high school, or completed their first year of college, and are passionate about inspiring young minds to appreciate the environment. This role offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in environmental education, outdoor recreation, and youth development in a dynamic setting.

About DEC Camps:

DEC Camps have four overnight environmental education summer camps run by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation. Our four summer camps are located in Saranac Lake, Lake George, the Catskills, and Allegany. Our popular and engaging programs draw 11–17-year-old youth from across New York State for life changing experiences in the outdoors. The camp season starts in early June and runs through mid-August. The work week is from Sunday afternoon through Friday afternoon.

Role Overview:

Camp Aides (two per camp) play a vital role in creating engaging, safe, and educational experiences for campers in the Volunteer (Vol) Program. The Vol Program is aimed at outstanding campers aged 14 – 17 (Vols) years old who were previously nominated for the Vol role. The Vol Program focuses on giving Vols leadership opportunities amongst their peers and includes an environmental project each week. In addition to the Vol Program, Camp Aides help support camp program as a whole by assisting directors, counselors, and kitchen staff.

Camp Aides earn $16.00/hr. for 40 hrs./week for the 10-week season, plus room and board. This is a state position and staff have the option to join the CSEA union (which offers tuition reimbursement) and the NYS retirement fund.

Specific duties include, but not limited to:

Vol Program:

  • Implementation, orientation, supervision, group dynamics, evaluations, etc.
  • Foster a welcoming atmosphere by encouraging teamwork, inclusivity, and respect among campers and vols
  • Follow established protocols to ensure camper safety

Assisting:

  • Assist Camp Counselors in delivering interactive environmental lessons and activities tailored to various age groups
  • Support the supervision of campers during outdoor adventures, ensuring safety and engagement at all times
  • Help facilitate camp routines, including setting up activity stations, managing supplies, and maintaining a clean environment
  • Support education needs by providing additional assistance as directed

Kitchen duties:

  • Work with Vols to serve meals
  • Overnight camping trip meals prep/clean up,
  • Late night food program prep/clean up, etc.

Requirements:

  • High school diploma or equivalent (minimum age 18)
  • Must have and maintain a current driver's license
  • Must be certified in an approved CPR/AED & must be in its first year
  • Additional certifications such as Waterfront Lifeguarding, WSI, and EMT are not required but are preferred

* Applicants do not need to currently hold certifications to apply, but must obtain accepted certifications before the start of employment

Preferred Experience:

  • Strong interest in conservation, environmental education, and outdoor recreation 
  • Prior experience working with children such as babysitting, tutoring, coaching, theater arts, or camp counseling is highly desirable
  • Ability to connect with diverse groups of children
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively as part of a team in outdoor or educational environments

This position offers an exciting chance to grow your skills while making a meaningful impact on young learners’ lives. If you’re energetic, responsible, and eager to inspire the next generation through environmental education and camp activities, we want to hear from you!

To apply, send resume, cover letter, and unofficial transcripts to CampEmploy@dec.ny.gov Interviews for summer 2026 have begun!

For more information, visit the NYSDEC website: https://dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/summer-camps/education-camp-employment

The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. Our work would not be possible without the diverse backgrounds, experiences, ideas, and abilities of our employees. DEC is committed to developing a workforce which represents the diverse population of New York State. DEC embraces a diverse and inclusive work environment by encouraging all individuals, including those with disabilities, to apply to open positions at the agency.