Staff & Volunteer FAQ
Answers for potential and new staff
How old do I need to be to work at Circle Square Ranch?
Our Impact Team is open to ages 16+, with roles in counselling, program, kitchen, horses, adventure, maintenance, and more. Impact Team members are volunteers who receive an honorarium.
Our Program Team and Leadership Team are open to ages 18+ and serve in skilled, summer-long roles with greater leadership responsibility. These team members receive a stipend.
If you’ll be 15 or 16 this summer, you can start with our three-week Leaders in Training (LIT) program. After completing LIT, participants may have the opportunity to join the Impact Team as a volunteer.
Canadian team members can also raise additional financial support through the Summer Missions Program.
Are summer staff positions paid?
All summer team members receive some financial compensation. Impact Team volunteers receive an honorarium, while Program Team and Leadership Team members receive a larger stipend. Canadian team members can also raise additional financial support through the Summer Missions Program.
Where do staff sleep?
Summer staff are provided with accommodations on site. Exact accommodations are determined by role and may vary from week to week. Camp counselors (and occasionally other roles) sleep in cabins or rooms with groups of campers during camp sessions.
Can I bring my own food?
The camp kitchen can accommodate food allergies, sensitivities, and reasonable preferences (vegetarian, lactose free, gluten free). Staff and volunteers may bring their own nut free snacks, but it is not necessary and should be a reasonable amount. Food may need to be stored outside of cabins to avoid attracting pests. Staff will not have time for food preparation other than their time off.
What hours do staff and volunteers work?
Most staff are on duty for the duration of the camp session except for a designated hour-long break each day.
Is there a team uniform?
On certain days, the whole summer team is required to wear a provided staff t-shirt with shorts or pants that meet uniform requirements. At all times there is a staff dress code that upholds a standard of professionalism.
What time can staff leave after the camp session ends?
Staff responsibilities continue after campers leave while the team completes cleaning, debriefing, and other end-of-session responsibilities. Staff are typically ready to leave by 8:00 p.m. on Friday.
What if a summer team member needs to leave in the middle of a camp session?
In the case of appointments or special events, staff must request time off as early as possible, in order for the leadership team to determine how to cover their responsibilities. Working at camp requires intense commitment and it is generally not possible to leave mid-session for recreational activities or casual events.
What do staff do on the weekends?
Weekends are a time to relax and recharge between camp sessions. Local staff typically go home and return for a 2:00 p.m. staff meeting on Sunday. International staff stay on site and are welcome to plan day trips or other activities during their time off. Staff are responsible for arranging their own transportation for off-site activities.
How long do I need to commit to working at camp?
Staff can join our summer team for as little as one week or for the entire summer. When you apply, let us know your availability so we can find a role and schedule that works.
Are meals provided for staff?
Yes. All meals are provided for staff and volunteers during camp sessions. On weekends, the kitchen team is off. Leftovers are available, but staff staying on site are responsible for preparing their own meals.
Can staff have cell phones at camp?
Our cell phone policy depends on your role. Staff whose responsibilities require a phone may carry one during the day. International staff may keep their phones in their bedrooms but should not carry them during camp activities. Local staff hand in their phones and can access them during their scheduled break.
Our goal is to keep staff present and engaged with campers while still making sure phones are available when needed.
Do I need previous camp experience?
No. Previous camp experience is not required. We’re looking for staff who are responsible, willing to learn, enjoy working with children, and are ready to be part of a team. Training is provided before you begin your role, and new staff work alongside experienced team members throughout the summer.
Do I need horse experience to work at Circle Square Ranch?
No. Many staff roles do not involve working directly with horses, so horse experience is not required. If you are interested in a role at the barn, previous horse experience is required.
Can I request a particular role?
Yes. You’re welcome to let us know which roles interest you. Leadership staff typically remain in one role for the summer, as many positions require specific training and consistency. Volunteers will move between roles depending on the needs of each camp session, the type of camp, and where they are best suited.
Can staff bring a vehicle, and where do they park?
Yes, we have a designated parking area for staff.
Do I need First Aid or other certifications?
Some roles, such as lifeguarding and certain Adventure Team positions, require specific certifications. When certification is required for your role, we can facilitate the necessary training.
Can friends apply and work at camp together?
Absolutely! Friends are welcome to apply together. We can’t guarantee that you’ll work in the same department or role, as placements are based on camp needs and suitability, but you’ll have lots of opportunities to see each other throughout the week.
Is laundry available for staff?
Yes. Laundry facilities are available on site for international staff staying at camp throughout the summer. Local staff are asked to take their laundry home on weekends.
