Seasonal & Summer Jobs at the Y
At the Y, every campfire story, splash in the pool, and mountain sunrise is more than just a moment—it’s a chance to inspire, empower, and shape the next generation. Whether you're leading adventures in the wilderness, creating unforgettable summers at camp, or teaching confidence in the water, you'll play a vital role in transforming lives while growing your own leadership and passion for impact.
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Find a Job that Matches Your Interests
Whether working around water, backpacking in the mountains, rock climbing, or teaching environmental science is your thing, we've got a job for you. Our staff come from near and far because there's no better place to work outside than with the Y.
Summer Day Camp
Every summer, the Y engages hundreds of children in fun and educational summer day camp programs. We’re looking for staff to serve as role models who lead by example to guide campers through activities ranging from arts & crafts, STEM, and sing-alongs to archery, nature hikes, outdoor recreation, and more.
- Starts at $21.16 per hour
- Y Childcare Benefit: Full-time 50% off, part-time 25% off
- Season runs June 20–August 26 (start dates vary by location)
- Training for some positions begins in May or June
- Shifts are 8 hours ranging from 6:45 am–6:15 pm, M-F
- Campers are entering 1st through 8th grade
Qualifications:
- Must be at least 16-years-old
- First AID/CPR certification (training available)
Overnight Camp
Start your greatest adventure yet and share the wonders of the great outdoors with kids at Camp Orkila or Camp Colman this summer. An overnight camp job at the Y gives you opportunities to explore future career pathways, all while mentoring campers as they experience new adventures like boating, climbing, zip-lining, hiking, and much more.
- Starts at $75 per day + onsite room & board
- Staff live on-site at camp throughout the summer or fall
- A workweek is six days on and one day off (summer)
- Includes training, staff meetings, and regular duties
- Camps located on Orcas Island and the Key Peninsula
Qualifications:
- Must be at least 18-years-old
- First AID/CPR certification (training is available)
Wilderness & Climbing Instructors
See Wilderness & Climbing Jobs
Wilderness and climbing instructors lead participants on outdoor adventures, engaging them in activities such as backpacking, rock climbing, paddling, and hiking in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. Instructors work from a set itinerary, manage the risks of backcountry travel, and facilitate a variety of workshops and activities that help participants develop their own leadership style.
Starts at $135/day + meals
- Instructors can expect 3-5 field weeks of work
Qualifications:
- Must be at least 18-years-old
- Wilderness First Aid and CPR certification
- Washington State Food Handlers permit
Outdoor Environmental Education
Environmental Education Instructors focus on nurturing a sense of appreciation for the natural world and each other through an understanding of ecological systems and team building. Team-building activities are facilitated with an emphasis on how students can interact positively with natural systems and each other.
Starts at $90 per day + onsite room & board
- Staff live on-site at camp throughout the spring or fall
- Camps located on Orcas Island and the Key Peninsula
Qualifications:
- Must be at least 19-years-old
- First AID/CPR certification (training available)
BOLD & GOLD
See Leadership Development Jobs
Get outside and test your leadership skills with Boys & Girls Outdoor Leadership Development (BOLD & GOLD). We engage over 500 youth each summer in outdoor experiences ranging from 5 to 15 days in the North Cascades, Mt. Rainier, Olympic National Park, and more. Activities include backpacking, rock climbing, mountaineering, fishing, yoga, art, music, literature, backcountry cooking, and having fun in nature.
- Starts at $135/day + meals
- Training begins in mid-June
- Instructors can expect 3-5 field-weeks of work
Qualifications:
- Must be at least 18-years-old
- Wilderness First Aid and CPR certification
- Washington State Food Handlers permit
Aquatics
Make a splash as a member of our aquatics team! We have positions open for lifeguards, swim instructors, aqua fitness instructors, swim support staff, and more. If you consider yourself a trustworthy leader with a keen eye for safety and love working with kids, apply for aquatics at the Y today.
- Y positions start at $20.76 per hour
- Resident camp positions starts at $75 per day + on-site room & board
- Y Childcare Benefit: Full-time 50% off, part-time 25% off
Qualifications:
- Must be at least 16-years-old for branches or 18-years-old for overnight camp
- Successful completion of swim competency test
- Certification-level of physical and mental readiness
- Observant with ability to react calmly, quickly, and with good judgment
- First AID/CPR certification (training available)
- YMCA or Red Cross Lifeguard certification (training available)
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Learn more about working at the Y
Find a career that benefits you and your loved ones, as well as your community.
Culture & Values
We’re an inclusive organization with a shared commitment to nurture the potential of youth, promote healthy living, and foster social responsibility.
Seasonal Benefits
Download our Seasonal Benefits statement to see the entire package of benefits and rewards available to seasonal employees.
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Why Work at the Y?
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With a shared commitment to nurturing the potential of kids, improving health and well-being, and supporting our neighbors, your membership will not just bring about meaningful change in yourself, but also in your community.
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