More Than a Summer Job: The Winaukee Leadership Incubator


When people ask, “What are you doing this summer?” and the answer is “Working at a summer camp,” there’s often a misconception that it’s just two months of playing sports and sitting by a lake.

At Camp Winaukee, we know the truth: Being a counselor is one of the most challenging, rewarding, and resume-building leadership roles a young adult can hold.

We don’t just hire staff to manage schedules; we hire mentors, coaches, and future leaders. Here is why a summer on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee is the ultimate investment in your professional future.

1. The Ultimate Masterclass in Soft Skills

In today’s job market, “soft skills” are the most sought-after qualities in every industry—from tech to medicine. As a Winaukee counselor, you are refining these daily:

Conflict Resolution: Navigating the social dynamics of a bunk of twelve boys.

Adaptability: Pivoting a full-day program when the weather changes in an instant.

Public Speaking: Leading chants, coaching drills, and commanding the attention of the entire camp community.

2. Mentorship and the Power of Influence

Our staff members are the “big brothers” of the Winaukee brotherhood. For our campers, a counselor is often the coolest person they know. That responsibility is profound.

You aren’t just teaching a boy how to throw a spiral or paddle a canoe; you are modeling resilience, sportsmanship, and emotional intelligence.

The bond formed between a counselor and their campers is the heartbeat of our community. Seeing a camper grow in confidence because of your encouragement is a feeling no office internship can replicate.

3. A Professional Network for Life

When you join the Winaukee staff, you aren’t just gaining a summer’s worth of memories; you’re joining a global network of alumni. Our staff come from all over the world, bringing diverse perspectives and professional ambitions. The “Same Brotherhood” we talk about for our campers applies just as strongly to our staff. You’ll leave camp with a network of peers and mentors who will support your career long after the final campfire.

4. Leadership in Action

At Winaukee, we give our staff the autonomy to lead. Whether you’re heading up a specific sports clinic or managing the logistics of a specialized event, you are given real responsibility. You learn how to manage people, time, and resources in a high-stakes, high-energy environment.

The Bottom Line

If you’re looking for a summer where you can make a tangible impact, build a powerhouse resume, and form life-long friendships, you belong at Winaukee.

You won’t just be supervising a summer; you’ll be leading a legacy.

Camp Winaukee is proud to be considered one of the best summer camps in America and a top employer for summer jobs and internships.