Frequently Asked Questions

What positions do you hire for?

Each summer, we hire about 70 counselors (ages 19 or above) and 30 assistant counselors (ages 16 to 18).  We also hire several specialists in arts & crafts, nature studies, outdoor living skills, ropes course, swimming, and horseback riding.  All of our specialists are at least 19 years old.

Which positions are available right now?

It depends.  If you're interested in a specific position, please indicate that on your application and we'll let you know whether or not that position is still open.

Are you looking for leadership, administrative or year-round staff?

Not for this summer.  Historically, our leadership has been internally promoted.  If you're looking for a year-round position at a summer camp (good for you!) check out the American Camp Association's Year Round Jobs at Camp.

When is summer camp happening? Do I need to work the whole summer?

For 2012, Tumbleweed will run camp from June 25 to August 17, Monday through Friday, except for the 4th of July.  All staff are required to work five days a week, for all eight weeks of camp.  Many of our staff will also be needed June 20 to 24, so we're prioritizing applicants who are available for that week, too.

What does a typical day look like? What hours am I expected to work?

For most staff, the camp day starts between 7:30 and 8:00 am, when bus routes begin.  You'll drive or ride on a bus as it picks up campers in a designated neighborhood, arriving at camp between 9:00 and 10:00 am.  At camp, you'll lead a group of up to 16 campers through a variety of activities (or, if you're a specialist, you'll teach those activities to groups as they come to your area).  Buses begin to leave camp at 3:15 pm, and you'll drive or ride with your campers back home, ending your day at about 4:30 or 5:00 pm.  Lifeguards and Wranglers will arrive at camp at about 9:00 am each day, teach campers at their activity area, and then stay after the buses leave to teach individualized lessons until about 6:00 pm.

I've never worked with kids before. Do I need training?

Yes!  The good news is, we'll provide it to you.  All new staff are required to attend 5 days of orientation before camp begins.  We'll discuss this in more detail if you're invited to an interview.

Do I need any certifications?

No, we'll provide all the necessary certifications in first aid and CPR for counselors and specialists and lifeguarding for lifeguards.  If you already hold a certification from the American Red Cross or American Heart Association, and it's valid through the end of your employment, we'll accept that.

What's the deal with driving a bus?

If you've had your driver's license for at least 3 years and have a fairly clean driving record (no more than 2 points), you'll be expected to learn how to drive one of our camp vehicles.  These are typically 18 to 24 passenger buses, and are no more difficult to drive than a large van or a small U-Haul truck.  We'll provide you with 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training and your driving test, and you'll end up with a California Commercial Driver's License with a passenger endorsement.

What do you look for in your camp staff? Am I qualified?

One of the most important characteristics of a good staff person is a positive attitude.  Camp is a fun place, and enthusiastic camp staff create a great environment for our campers!  We're also looking for people who are willing to learn and grow over the course of the summer.  Camp staff should be good teachers (of things like respect, friendship, and responsibility), so they can help campers grow, too!  Obviously, you must also be someone who has the responsibility, energy, and endurance to arrive at camp on time each day, supervise and have fun with up to 16 campers for several hours, and handle a wide variety of problems or issues that may arise throughout camp.

I don't live in Los Angeles. Can I still work at camp?

That depends.  As a day camp, we don't provide housing, transportation, or meals to our staff.  If you can secure that for yourself, you can definitely work at camp!  However, please be aware that apartments in Los Angeles (especially in the neighborhood around camp) are rather expensive, and you may not realistically be able to move to LA for the summer and live on a camp staff salary.

Speaking of salaries, what do you pay?

Assistant counselors make $272 per week, counselors (with a commercial driver's license) make $380 per week, and most specialists make $400 per week.  We pay biweekly, with a bonus at the end of the summer if you complete your contract.

Where is camp located?

We're located in the Brentwood area of Los Angeles, north of Sunset Avenue, about 10 minutes from the 405.  Our bus yard (where most staff start and end their days) is on the Veterans' Administration Campus, just west of the 405 between Wilshire and Santa Monica, fairly convenient to public transportation.

I don't live in the United States.  Can I still work at camp?

If you are able to legally work in the United States, you may work at camp.  Please be aware that Tumbleweed does not provide visa assistance, nor do we provide housing, transportation, or meals.

Enough information...I'm ready to apply!

Great!  Just visit our Application Process.

Wait!  I still need more information...

No problem!  Just call Andy at (310) 472-7474 ext. 102 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Is Tumbleweed the best camp in the West?

Yes!