Looking for a summer job that offers more than just a paycheck? Want to make a meaningful difference while developing professional skills that employers value? Camp Tekoa in Hendersonville, NC provides college students and young adults with a summer employment experience that transforms both lives and resumes.
Work That Matters in the Beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains
Perfectly located in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains near Hendersonville, North Carolina, Camp Tekoa offers a summer job opportunity unlike any other. As a member of our summer staff, you'll work in an inspiring natural setting while mentoring youth, leading outdoor adventures, and building a community centered around our mission: "Touching Hearts, Changing Lives, and Sharing the Light of Christ."
Our 140-acre property features a spring-fed lake, mountain views, hiking trails, adventure elements, and comfortable facilities – creating the perfect backdrop for a summer of growth, challenge, and fun. Located just minutes from downtown Hendersonville and about 30 minutes from Asheville, you'll have access to the vibrant culture of Western North Carolina during your time off.
Why Camp Tekoa Is the Best Summer Job in Hendersonville
Professional Development That Employers Value
Working at Camp Tekoa isn't just a job – it's career preparation. Our staff members develop and refine skills that translate directly to future professional success:
- Leadership skills: Managing groups, making decisions, and taking initiative
- Problem-solving abilities: Adapting to changing situations and finding creative solutions
- Communication expertise: Clearly conveying information to diverse audiences
- Conflict resolution: Helping resolve interpersonal issues and build community
- Program planning: Developing and implementing engaging activities
- Risk management: Prioritizing safety while facilitating meaningful experiences
- Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with diverse colleagues
These transferable skills become valuable talking points in future job interviews and enhance your marketability across industries. Many of our staff members find that their camp experience becomes a highlight of their resume that stands out to potential employers.
A Supportive Community
At Camp Tekoa, you'll join a team of approximately 100 dedicated college students and young adults from across the United States and around the world. Our staff community is known for its supportive, inclusive atmosphere where lasting friendships are formed.
Unlike many summer jobs where employees return home each evening, our residential program creates opportunities for deep community building through staff activities, shared experiences, and meaningful conversations. The connections made during a summer at camp often extend well beyond the summer months.
Comprehensive Training and Mentorship
We invest heavily in preparing our team for success. All senior staff participate in a comprehensive two-week training program covering:
- Child development and behavior management
- Activity leadership and facilitation
- Emergency response and risk management
- Faith development and spiritual leadership
- Community building and group dynamics
- Specialized certifications (for specific roles)
Throughout the summer, our year-round leadership team provides ongoing mentorship, regular feedback, and professional development opportunities. This supportive structure ensures you'll grow professionally while making a meaningful impact.
Diverse Roles to Match Your Interests and Skills
Camp Tekoa offers various summer positions to match different interests, skills, and experience levels:
- Family Group Leaders (Counselors): Lead and mentor a group of campers throughout their camp experience, facilitating activities, guiding spiritual growth, and creating community.
- Adventure Resources: Specialized roles leading adventure activities like climbing, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, backpacking, and other outdoor pursuits.
- Program Specialists: Focus on specific program areas such as waterfront, challenge course, or creative arts, developing expertise in your area of interest.
- Support Roles: Essential positions in areas like media, health center assistance, kitchen, maintenance, and administrative support.
- Outdoor Leadership Positions: Roles for returning staff with additional responsibilities, program coordination, and staff mentorship.
These diverse opportunities allow you to find a position aligned with your career goals and interests while developing valuable skills.
A Typical Day as a Camp Tekoa Staff Member
While every day brings new adventures, here's what a typical day might look like for a Family Group Leader (counselor):
6:30 AM: Wake up and prepare for the day
7:15 AM: Morning Watch (devotions) and hot chocolate
7:30 AM: Breakfast with your family group
9:00 AM: Morning activity rotations
11:30 AM: Lunch
1:15 PM: Chill Time
2:15 PM: Afternoon Activity Rotations
5:30 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening Activities
9:30 PM: Cabin devotions and bedtime routines
10:00 PM: Lights out
Days are full and rewarding, with scheduled time off to rest and recharge. Staff receive one day off per week (Saturday lunch -Sunday lunch) and additional breaks throughout the week.
Compensation and Benefits
Working at Camp Tekoa provides both tangible and intangible benefits:
Financial Compensation:
- Competitive weekly salary based on position and experience
- Room and board included (valued at approximately $2,000 for the summer)
- Specialized certifications and training at no cost
Professional Benefits:
- Leadership experience in a respected organization
- Professional references from supervisors
- Networking with professionals in education, ministry, outdoor leadership, and other fields
- Potential academic internship credit (arrangements must be made with your college)
Personal Benefits:
- Meaningful relationships with colleagues and campers
- Personal growth through challenges and new experiences
- Opportunity to make a difference in children's lives
- Spiritual growth in a supportive Christian community
Qualifications and Application Process
Who We're Looking For:
- College students and young adults (typically 18+)
- Commitment to our mission of sharing Christ's love
- Enthusiasm for working with children and youth
- Willingness to work in a team environment
- Responsibility, maturity, and good judgment
- Ability to maintain energy and positivity in a demanding role
- Specific skills for specialized positions (lifeguarding, adventure leadership, etc.)
How to Apply:
Our application process is thorough to ensure we build the best team possible:
- Online Application: Complete our detailed application form at CampTekoa.org
- References: Provide contact information for three personal references
- Interview: Participate in an in-person or online interview
- Background Check: Pass a comprehensive background screening
- Training: Commit to attending the full staff training period (dates available on our website)
Join Our Team and Make a Difference This Summer
A summer at Camp Tekoa offers more than just employment – it provides an opportunity to develop as a leader, make a meaningful difference in children's lives, and build a foundation for your future career. In a beautiful mountain setting, you'll form lasting friendships, develop valuable skills, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Ready to have the best summer job in Hendersonville, NC? Peruse CampTekoa.org to learn more about our summer staff positions and start your application today. Questions about employment opportunities? Contact our office online or at (828) 692-6516 or email [email protected].
Apply now to join the Camp Tekoa team – where your job becomes an adventure that transforms both you and the campers you serve!
Camp Tekoa is an equal opportunity employer. We are owned and operated by the Western North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church and accredited by the American Camp Association.