Employment at Buffalo Cove

During the summers, we like to maintain a "core staff" of at least 8. This number is comprised of head counselors, counselors, and interns. In addition to these 8, we also hire specialty teachers to visit during skills and craft sessions and lead specific specialized activities. The core staff is responsible for supporting and running summer programming.

Our pay scale varies depending on experience, certifications, skills, and abilities, but usually ranges from $50 to $100 per program day. This includes a place to sleep and delicious food in your belly. Interns are generally awarded a stipend.

A typical schedule for summer staff includes around-the-clock employment during 1-2 week programs with daytime slots off each week and one night off per week of programming. In between programs, staff are always provided with at least 2 full days and nights of time off, with more allotted after longer programs.

We understand how challenging it can be to work at a job where you have to be “on” 24 hours a day, and we value well-rested staff. For this reason, we make every effort to take advantage of time for recuperating and refreshing our bodies and spirits during and in between camp sessions.

Minimum qualifications for all positions

  • A passion for life and teaching

  • Willingness to undergo an extensive background check

  • At least 20 years of age

BCOEC summer staff pose for a photo under tulip poplars

Head Counselor qualifications

  • 5+ years of documented experience teaching and leading in the outdoors

  • Expertise in 12 outdoor skills/techniques (must include fire, shelter, and knife use)

  • Extensive experience teaching these skills/techniques

  • Wilderness First Aid (preferably higher level), CPR, and EPI certification

  • 50+ cumulative days in the backcountry in multi-day stints (20+ days leading groups in the backcountry)

  • Preferably experienced in working with at-risk youth or other youth populations

Campers and staff sit around a blazing fire

Counselor qualifications

  • 2+ years of documented experience in outdoor education

  • Well-versed in fire, shelter, and knife use

  • Wilderness First Aid, CPR, and EPI Certification

  • 25+ accumulated days in the backcountry in multi-day stints

  • Preferably experienced in working with youth

Intern qualifications

  • 1+  year working with youth

  • Basic First Aid and CPR certification