General Staff FAQ
Where is Camp Harlam located?
Camp Harlam is located approximately 90 miles north of Philadelphia and approximately 100 miles west of New York City, nestled in the foothills of the Pocono Mountains near the towns of Kresgeville, Kunkletown and Lehighton (Pennsylvania).
After I submit my application, when will I hear from Camp Harlam?
After your application and all collateral materials are received and processed by our office, you will be contacted by email from our Director or one of our Assistant Directors to set up a time and place for your interview.
What happens if I am hired to work at Camp Harlam?
Upon accepting a position with Camp Harlam, you will receive a contract to be signed and returned to us by the date indicated on the contract. You will also receive a number of informational forms that we will need to have on file prior to the summer. This mailing will contain information about your arrival to camp, medical forms, and other materials.
After I sign my contract and complete my forms, what happens next?
Following the completion of your contract, you will begin receiving regular communications from camp, including our Staff Handbook. The information in the Handbook is valuable in helping you to prepare for the summer at camp.
As a Cabin Counselor am I also expected to be an activity instructor?
We hire Cabin Counselors to work as counselors and supervise the same group of campers during their daily activities (i.e. basketball, arts & crafts, tennis, etc.). We hire Specialty Counselors to instruct most of these daily activities. Together, Cabin and Specialty Counselors supervise and care for campers at meals, time in the cabin, during evening activities, and throughout the course of the day.
As a Specialty Counselor am I also expected to do work as a counselor with the kids in a cabin?
We hire Specialty Counselors to work as activity staff and to work with campers in the cabin setting. While it is the responsibility of Specialty Counselors to prepare for and lead daily activities for campers of all ages, we also expect Specialty Counselors to work together with Cabin Counselors to care for campers at meals, during time in the cabin, and during evening and special program times.
Do I have to be Jewish to work at Camp Harlam?
No, you do not. Camp Harlam is an equal opportunity employer and we hire adults based primarily on their skills, potential to perform their role at camp, their character and values, and their willingness to be part of our Kehillah Kedosha (sacred community). We encourage any applicant with questions about our special Jewish community to contact our office.
When do I get paid?
Salaries are paid on the URJ pay schedule.
Does Camp Harlam have a curfew for staff?
In order to assure that staff members are able to function at all times throughout the camp season, policies have been set regarding for staff curfew. We expect everyone to perform at the peak of their abilities during the day. Curfew will be discussed in greater detail during Staff Orientation & Training.
When do I have time off during the summer?
We will discuss days off with each applicant in their interview, but be assured that time off is provided for all staff throughout the summer.
Will I have to attend a Staff Orientation & Training?
A comprehensive Staff Orientation & Training program is held prior to the start of camp. Depending on your position and the training required, you will arrive at camp 1-2 weeks before the campers arrive. During this program, staff members are presented with a great deal of information including camp policies and procedures as well as skill development in working with groups. Staff Orientation & Training is required for all staff members.
What if I am a vegetarian or have dietary restrictions?
Special diets can be accommodated. If you require such assistance, it is your responsibility to discuss such arrangements in advance with Camp Harlam prior to your arrival at camp. Meals at Camp are served “Kosher-Style”, which means that we do not serve pork or shellfish and we do not mix meat and dairy at the same meals. Those who keep more strictly Kosher should speak to our directors about our ability to accommodate those needs.
Will I have access to my e-mail, cell phone and other technology?
Computers are available for staff use on a fair-share basis, and are located in the camp’s office building. Staff members will also have access to wireless internet in the office building and in the Staff Lounge area. Staff members are asked to be considerate of others and limit their computer usage time, and we work hard to be as “screen free” at camp as possible. Staff are not permitted to use computers or phones or other such devices in their cabins and can only do so in certain areas and at specific times.
How will I do my laundry at camp?
Laundry is sent out once a week, and is free of charge. There are also washing machines and dryers available for your use at a nominal cost in the staff lounge.
May I bring my vehicle to camp?
Yes, you may bring your personal vehicle to camp. Personal vehicles are not to be used to drive campers or staff members on any official business unless expressly requested by the camp director. All personal vehicles must be registered at the camp office upon arrival. Personal vehicles may never be driven through the camp grounds and are to be parked in the assigned areas only.