Welcome to Your J1 Camp Counselor & Camp Staff Job Hub:

At ISATS Jamaica, we are dedicated to helping you secure a position as a J1 Camp Counselor or Camp Staff member in the U.S. Whether you're looking to work as a counselor, playground associate, or support staff, our guide will help you navigate the steps necessary to find and secure your dream camp job.

How ISATS Jamaica Can Help

As your recruitment agency, we provide you with the necessary resources and guidance throughout your application process. While you will be responsible for finding your own camp job, we are here to ensure that you understand the steps involved, meet all visa requirements, and are fully prepared for your role.

Step 1: Finding Your Camp Job

Here are some effective ways candidates can find their own camp for the J1 Camp Counselor and Camp Staff Program:

1. Online Camp Job Boards

• Use dedicated websites: Platforms like Campstaff.com, CoolWorks, ACA Job Lisiting and SeasonalJobs are popular job boards that list available positions at camps. These websites often allow you to search by camp type, location, and role (counselor, playground associate, support staff, etc.).

CampPage- http://www.camppage.com/

Work at a Camp- http://www.workatacamp.com/

American Camp Association- http://www.acacamps.org/

CoolWorks- https://www.coolworks.com/

International Camp Staff- http://www.internationalcampstaff.com/

J1 Camp Exchange- http://www.j1campexchange.com/

The Job Hun- http://www.thejobhunt.org/

GoCamp- http://www.gocamp.com/

Camp Leaders- www.campleaders.com

2. Camp Websites

• Direct Applications: Many camps post their job openings directly on their websites. By searching for camps in your preferred location or type, you can apply directly through their application portals. Examples include:

  • YMCA Camps

  • Boy Scouts of America Camps

  • Private and specialty camps

3. Social Media & Networking

• Join Facebook Groups or LinkedIn Networks: There are various social media groups dedicated to camp jobs where current counselors share openings or where camps post available positions. Facebook groups like “Camp Counselor Job Opportunities” can be helpful for finding listings.

• Connect with Past Camp Staff: Past camp staff members may know of camps hiring or may have recommendations for you. Reaching out to alumni of camps you’re interested in can help you get an inside track.

4. Online Job Fairs and Camp Recruiting Events

• Participate in Virtual Job Fairs: Some organizations host virtual or in-person job fairs (With ISATS) specifically for camp positions. These events can be an excellent opportunity to interact with multiple camps and secure a job.

5. Contact International or Local Camp Organizations

• Camp Networks: Organizations like the American Camp Association (ACA) often have directories of accredited camps in the U.S. Many of these camps are approved to hire international staff for J1 programs.

6. Request a letter of Participation from ISATS

• When applying to camps externally, once you have secured a job offer, it is important to request a Letter of Participation from ISATS Jamaica. This letter confirms that you are part of the J-1 Camp Counselor and Camp Staff program and that you have already completed the necessary steps to work in the United States under the program.
  

• They will have a clear understanding of the process and be reassured that everything is lined up for your visa sponsorship, including sponsor approval, safety protocols, and necessary fees. It helps the camp confirm that you are working with an authorized visa sponsor and that all required documentation is in place for your arrival in the U.S.

REQUEST LETTER

7. Email Directly to Camps

• Contact Camps Independently: If you have a specific camp in mind, you can email them directly. Introduce yourself, express interest, and inquire about any available counselor or staff positions. Be sure to highlight your qualifications and experience.