Staff Experience

NJY Camps welcomes staff from across the United States and around the world.
In 2025, we hired staff from 27 different countries, including England, Scotland, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Israel, Argentina, Brazil, Ireland, the Netherlands, Mexico, and many more.

Each summer, NJY Camps employs approximately 450–550 staff members, creating a diverse and vibrant camp community.

We offer a wide range of positions to match different skills and interests, including:

• General Counselors
• Activity Specialists (sports, arts, waterfront, ropes course, STEM, etc.)
• Support Staff (kitchen, maintenance, housekeeping)
• Leadership Roles (Division Heads, Senior Counselors and Heads of Areas)

NJY Camps stands out for its strong sense of community, inclusive environment, and foundation in Jewish values—while remaining welcoming to people of all backgrounds.

As the largest Jewish overnight camp in North America, NJY Camps offers:

• Age specific to each camp – Camp Nah-Jee-Wah 6-11 years old, Cedar Lake Camp 12-14 years old, Teen Camp 15-16 years old and our Round Lake Inclusion Program covers all ages.
• A wide variety of programs – sports, arts, waterfront, ropes course, STEM, etc.
• Exceptional staff training and support
• Two beautiful camp locations in Milford and Lakewood both in Pennsylvania.

Our cabins are rustic yet comfortable, designed to build community and connection. Each cabin typically includes:

• 10–14 campers and 3–4 staff members
• Bunk beds
• Electricity
• Bathrooms inside the cabin

Staff receive regular, scheduled time off each week, including:

• 1 full day per week
• 2–3 evenings off weekly
• Daily rest periods

On your day off, transportation is provided free of charge so you can safely leave camp. Weekly trip options may include:

• Local towns
• Theme parks and water parks
• American Dream Mall
• Woodbury Common Premium Outlets
• New York City

After 9:30 PM, staff can also participate in fun, camp-style evening activities on-site.

Your time off is yours to recharge and enjoy. You can:

• Relax around camp or take a break in your cabin
• Use facilities like the pool or sports fields
• Spend time with other staff
• Join in optional activities or unwind with a quick power nap

The nearby town of Milford offers plenty to explore, including restaurants, shops, and entertainment. Some staff favorites include:

• Naked Bagel – perfect for breakfast
• Joey’s Pizza – a must-try local favorite
• Walmart – great for essentials
• Movie theater – ideal for rainy days
• Scenic waterfalls and outdoor spots

A typical day runs from around 7:30 AM to 9:30–10:30 PM and includes:

• Waking up and getting ready with campers
• Leading or assisting with activities
• Supervising meals
• Participating in evening programs
• Supporting campers at night

The schedule runs Sunday through Friday, with special programming every Saturday. No two days are ever the same!

Wi-Fi is available in designated staff areas. Cell service may be limited, so staff should expect reduced connectivity while at camp—making it a great opportunity to unplug and fully experience camp life.

No! You do not need to be Jewish to work at NJY Camps.

While many of our campers and American staff identify as Jewish, we proudly welcome people from all backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs.

What matters most is that you are:

• Open to new experiences
• Respectful of others
• Excited to be part of a supportive, welcoming community

If you’re ready to try something new and become part of a global camp family, NJY Camps could be the perfect fit for you.

Yes! NJY Camps is committed to preparing and supporting staff with high-quality training opportunities.

Certifications & Specialist Training

We offer a range of certifications and role-specific training, including:

• American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification for staff interested in waterfront roles.
• American Red Cross Swim Instruction training for selected lifeguards.
• CPR and First Aid Training.
• Specialist training in Ropes, Archery, and Outdoor Adventure through our partner Arboreal Edge.

Pre-Camp Staff Training Week

All staff participate in comprehensive week-long training before campers arrive. This includes:

• Learning about your campers and your role.
• Meeting fellow staff from around the world.
• Building friendships and team connections.
• Understanding camp policies, expectations, and best practices.
• Gaining confidence and getting all your questions answered.

International Staff

For international staff, NJY Camps provides a full linen pack to make your arrival as easy as possible. This includes a pillow, pillowcase, fitted sheet, flat sheet, and blanket. If you would like additional comfort items such as extra pillows or a comforter, you can purchase them from Walmart or have them shipped directly to camp on Amazon.

While a limited number of towels are available at camp, we recommend bringing your own if possible. Towels and other essentials can also be purchased during staff week or ordered in advance and shipped to camp. You should bring enough toiletries to get you started and be prepared to buy more as time goes on.

American Staff

American staff are required to bring their own bedding, towels, and toiletries. If anything is forgotten, don’t worry, support will be available to ensure you have what you need. You are also welcome to ship items to camp in advance, so they are ready for your arrival.

Our goal is to ensure everyone arrives prepared and comfortable, so you can settle in quickly and enjoy the full camp experience.

Even though camp takes place during the summer, the weather can be unpredictable. At NJY Camps, you may experience everything from hot sunshine to cooler mornings, evenings, and even the occasional rain or hail.

We recommend bringing a few warmer layers, such as sweatshirts and sweatpants, to stay comfortable during cooler parts of the day. One essential item we strongly suggest is a good-quality raincoat, so you’re prepared no matter what the weather brings.

Being prepared for all conditions will help you stay comfortable and make the most of your camp experience.

At camp, we have a closed-toe shoe policy, meaning your toes must always be covered for safety.

• Required everyday footwear:
  • Good sneakers – you are going to do lots of walking and fun activities!
  • Crocs (a camp essential) and lots of jibbets!
• Recommended:
  • Rain boots (wellies), especially for wet or muddy days.
• Restricted use:
  • Flip flops or slides may only be worn in the bunk or in the shower.