STAFF FAQ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS FOR STAFF
How old do you have to be to work on staff?
All staff members must be at least eighteen (18) before the first day of Staff Orientation. Nearly all of our 18 & 19 year old counselors have been through our own Leadership Development Program.
There are Counselor in Training and Junior Counselor roles available in our Leadership Development Program for sixteen and seventeen (17) year olds.
Do I need to stay the full summer?
Yes, staff members are hired for a period of time that includes pre-camp staff orientation and post camp clean up. Staff members arrive before, and leave after, the campers.
Training before camp is vital, required, and irreplaceable. There are trainings required by the State of NH and by us so we can teach you our approach to youth development, limit setting, and positive mentorship.
Will I get time off?
Yes, staff members get a full day off each week in addition to an hour off each day and nights off in camp up to 4 nights per week. Note that COVID protocols may limit time off outside of camp this coming summer.
We believe time off is important for all staff. Both the social and recuperative benefits of time away from primary responsibilities and camp as a whole are valuable. Days off are a great time to explore the local area, relax, reconnect with life outside the Hawkeye bubble (if you want to) and just enjoy some downtime.
How will I do my laundry?
Laundry gets done every Wednesday for the entire camp community. You should plan to bring enough clothes for a week plus a little, just in case. In the Spring, we'll send you a detailed packing guide along with your staff welcome materials.
Where will I live?
Cabin Counselors live in each cabin with their assigned group. Each group has two cabin staff living in, and taking care of, the campers in the bunk. Program Counselors live in each Cabin Area near to their assigned cabin in separate living quarters. Sharing living space is a great way to connect quickly and importantly with campers and peers.
How much do counselors get paid?
You should expect to make less than you would in another summer job and to have a great time doing it. Compensation also includes room, board (meals), and weekly laundry service. Rate of pay depends on the staff role, experience, and certifications. Pay scale is listed as a part of each job description.
Staff are paid every two weeks. Direct deposit and paper checks are both options.
Can I smoke at camp?
Camp Hawkeye is also an alcohol free campus. No drinking on camp, nor possession or storage of alcohol, are allowed, even if you are of legal drinking age in NH. Our international staff who should note that this means age 21 (not 18 as in most other countries).
Can my friends come visit me at camp?
Yes, your friends can come and pick you up on your day off or meet you in town. Hawkeye is a small, safe community and all visitors must check in at the office and be accompanied by a staff member at all times.
Visitors may receive a tour arranged in advance that does not interfere with regular programming or duties. As you would expect, some areas like private living spaces, etc. may be off limits to visitors.
Can I bring my cell phone to camp?
Sure! Of course you can. You just can't keep it on your person or in your cabin. No electronics of any kind are allowed in the cabins, including but not limited to video game devices, cell phones, blow dryers, and hair straighteners.
This isn't just about leading by example, though that is an important piece of all that we do, this is about being "in it." We want all our community members committed to what we are teaching and how we are teaching it. We want you to be AT CAMP while you are at camp. This is important and will make not only you happier but your campers too.
