summers at southern

Summer Positions

The 2025 summer staff application is currently available! Please carefully read the information below prior to submitting an application.

Welcome to Summers at Southern, a dynamic coeducational program catering to grades 8th-12th, hosted on the campus of Southern Preparatory Academy in Camp Hill, Alabama. Our mission is to empower campers through enriching experiences that foster exploration, discovery, and personal growth.

As a member of our team, you will play a pivotal role in shaping young lives during their most formative years. We emphasize:

Marking an Impact:
Serving as mentors, role models, and leaders for our campers

Fun and Adventure:
With 90% of our camp outdoors, you will enjoy a summer immersed in nature, with excitement and lasting memories.

Diverse Opportunities:
Our staff encompasses a wide range of talents – from artists to athletes, naturalists to team builders – ensuring there is a place for everyone to excel and thrive!

Requirements and Responsibilties

Time Requirements

Staff Training: June 10 – June 14
Week 1: June 15 – June 21
Week 2: June 22 – June 28
OFF WEEK: June 29 – July 5
Week 3: July 6 – July 12
Weeks 4-5: July 13 – July 26

All staff must be available for training week. While we would love for staff to be available for the entire summer season we understand potential conflicts may arise. Please communicate with the camp director if you will have any issues with being available for camp.

Responsibilities

Supervise and facilitate camper activities.
Teach and guide various outdoor programs.
Assist with preparing for camp events and activities.
Instruct campers on daily routines and cleanup tasks.
Provide individualized support to campers.
Collaborate with camp staff to execute events and activities.
Lead and assist campers during on – and off-campus activities.
Ensure campers follow camp rules and guidelines.
Serve as a mentor and role model for campers.
Perform additional tasks as assigned.

Qualifications

College Student, 18+ years old, with first year coursework completed.
Ability to pass a drug test & background check.
Skilled in planning, organizing, and leading group activities.
Enthusiastic, positive, and energetic attitude.
Comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions.
Strong communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills to guide and connect with campers.

Preferred Qualifications
Experience working with kids.
Prior summer camp or outdoor education experience.
Survival Skills, First Aid, CPR, or Lifeguard Certification.
Skills in archery, camping, STEM, Aviation, fishing, agriculture, fisheries, military, or similar activities are a plus.

Benefits

Financially Compensated
Room, Board, and Meals provided
Laundry Service included
Work with Youth
Off-Campus Adventures
Resume Building Opportunity
Lifelong friendships and memories
Fourth of July week off

Explore Our Camps

STEM & Aviation

Our mission is to foster an environment where curiosity thrives, empowering individuals to explore, discover, and grow through engaging, meaningful learning experiences. 

Nature's Wonders

Our mission at Nature's Wonders Camp is to inspire a deeper appreciation for the natural world by fostering meaningful connections with nature, encouraging exploration.

Southern Survival

The mission of this camp is to teach campers how to adapt to any situation, advance their survival skills through hands-on training, and confidently survive using the knowledge and techniques they’ve learned.

Operation LEADERSHIP

Our mission at Operation Leadership Camp is to instill military discipline, build confidence, foster leadership, cultivate resilience, and promote teamwork.