Make a Difference this Summer

A job at camp is a BIG deal.

Be a part of something bigger than yourself.

You love working with teens. You get to be a positive role model for hundreds of young people and help them discover who they are and who they want to become. You’ll play a vital role in helping them connect to their Jewish heritage and build a meaningful relationship with Israel. You know that even the smallest interactions can have a huge impact.

Ready to make memories that last a lifetime while building your resume and leadership skills?

Apply Now

Our Staff Community

Tel Yehudah’s staff is comprised primarily of college students, graduates, and educators, many whose lives have been enriched by Tel Yehudah and the Young Judaea experience. We hire staff who embody our values and want to share their unique experiences to create an amazing community and high-quality programs.

International Diversity

A unique component of our staff is our large delegation of Israeli counselors who enrich the cultural aspect of our programming and connect our campers to their Jewish heritage. Staff members from other countries enhance the international flavor of camp and bring diverse perspectives to our community.

What Makes Our Staff Special

We have high expectations. Our staff exhibit maturity, sound judgment, dependability, and willingness to put our teens first. Our staff are positive role models who dedicate their summers to enriching campers’ lives and creating meaningful, fun experiences.

Schedule a Meeting to Learn More

What We Offer

Compensation Package

• Salary based on position and experience
• Room and board
• All meals provided including special dietary accommodations
• Transportation assistance
• Professional development opportunities and training

Benefits & Perks

• Build leadership and communication skills
• Reference letters for future employment/graduate school
• Staff social events and time off activities
• Lifelong friendships with staff from around the world

Are You Right for Our Team?

Essential Qualities:

• Care deeply about making a difference in teenagers’ lives
• Love collaboration and being part of a team
• Communicate effectively and adapt to different groups and scenarios
• Bring enthusiasm, humor, and love having fun
• Stay solution-oriented and open-minded

Practical Skills:

• High energy level and ability to work outdoors for extended periods
• Accept feedback from supervisors and peers
• Assess and promote positive behavior while maintaining safety
• Manage challenging situations with maturity and judgment

Personal Values:

• Excited to build lasting friendships beyond the summer
• Want to live in an immersive Jewish community
• Eager to deepen your connection to Judaism and Israel
• Believe diversity of ideas and perspectives makes us stronger
• Willing to go above and beyond for our teens

Available Positions

Counselors

• Madrichim (Bunk Counselors): Live with and guide 12-16 teens, take part in daily activities with your bunk

Specialists & Instructors

• Lifeguards*
• Arts & Crafts Instructors
• Sports Instructors
• Performing Arts: Drama and Rikud Instructors
• Outdoor Adventure: Ropes course instructors*

*Certification courses will be offered by camp during staff orientation

Support Staff

• Kitchen & Dining: Chefs and kitchen staff
• Maintenance: Grounds keeping and facility upkeep
• Health & Wellness: Nurses, EMTs, Social Workers (certified positions)
• Administrative: Office support, communications

Leadership Roles

• Merakzim (Unit Heads): Supervise bunk staff for about 40-50 campers
• Roshim (Specialty Area Heads): Oversee specific program areas
• Educators: Support camps Israel and Jewish educational program

For a more complete list of available positions, please see our staff application.

Requirements & Qualifications

Basic Requirements (All Positions)

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Pass background check and reference checks
• Complete all required forms
• Attend mandatory staff orientation (1-2 weeks before campers arrive depending on position)

International Staff

International applicants: Please complete our international staff inquiry form so we can direct you to the correct application agency for your country.

Specialized Position Requirements

• Health Staff: New York State RN license or EMT certification
• Drivers: Valid driver’s license with clean driving record

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience working with children/teens
• Camp or youth program experience
• Relevant skills for specialty positions
• Jewish background or strong interest in Jewish culture

Staff Training & Orientation

Staff Week Experience

All staff report 1-2 weeks before campers arrive for mandatory training and orientation. During “staff week” you’ll:

• Move in and set up cabins and camp facilities
• Complete essential training on policies, procedures, and safety
• Develop programs and learn behavior management techniques
• Build relationships and create a strong, cohesive team
• Have fun while preparing for an amazing summer

The week is intensive but rewarding – you’ll work hard and also enjoy team-building activities, social events, and getting to know your fellow staff members.

Important Dates & Timeline

Application Timeline

• Applications Open: September
• Early Application Bonus Deadline: December 31st
• Staff Interviews: Rolling
• Position Confirmations: Rolling

Summer Commitment

• Staff Training: 1-2 weeks before the start of camp depending on position
• First Session: June 24th-July 21st
• First Session Only Staff Depart: July 22nd
• Second Session: July 24th-August 9th
• Staff Departure: August 10th
• Leadership Team Departure: August 11th

All staff must start at the beginning of the summer with limited exception. We have opportunities available to work the full summer or just first session.

Ready to Apply?

Transform your summer into an unforgettable experience of growth, friendship, and impact.

Next Steps:

1. Complete our online application
2. Schedule your online interview
3. Receive position confirmation
4. Submit required documents

Questions?

Contact Us:

• Email: info@telyehudah.org
• Phone: 917-595-1900
• Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 AM – 5 PM EST

Ready to make this the summer that changes everything? Join our team today.

Apply Now