Martial Arts Program Specialist - Paid Summer Internship

Looking for a paid summer internship that transforms the lives of young people?

If you have a passion for martial arts, creating meaningful connections, and working in a beautiful outdoor setting, this is the opportunity for you!

About Us:

Camp Starfish is on a mission to create a transformative summer experience for children with emotional, learning, and behavioral challenges. As a Martial Arts Program Specialist, you'll teach campers martial arts techniques while fostering discipline, confidence, and teamwork in a supportive and inclusive community.

Responsibilities:

• Lead weekly martial arts sessions tailored to the unique needs of campers, focusing on skill-building, physical activity, and personal growth.
• Live alongside youth campers in a cabin, providing 24-hour supervision and supporting them in adjusting to camp life and group living.
• Create a physically and emotionally safe environment during martial arts sessions and other camp activities.
• Foster self-esteem, personal goals, and social-emotional development for each camper.
• Fully immerse yourself in camp life, participating in activities like hiking, campfires, boating, and team-building exercises.

Qualifications:

• Background or experience in martial arts (e.g., Taekwondo, Karate, Judo) with the ability to teach and inspire campers.
• Ideal candidate is a college student or recent graduate studying psychology, education, sociology, or a related field.
• Strong mental resilience and the ability to handle challenging but rewarding scenarios with empathy and composure.
• Ability to work the entirety of the summer season, including staff training dates.
• Pass all background and reference checks required for seasonal employees working with vulnerable youth.

Skills:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Commitment to diversity and inclusion, prepared for restorative conversations with campers and staff.
• Physical stamina to lead martial arts and participate in other outdoor activities in varying environmental conditions (e.g., heat, humidity, bugs).
• Ability to apply behavior management techniques to help campers navigate escalated situations and develop therapeutic coping skills.

Development and Fellowship Opportunities:

• Course credit available in psychology, education, social work, and more.
• Over 140 hours of hands-on training for working with diverse children.
• Paid internship with 15-month Fellowship eligibility for additional professional development.
• Weekly seminars covering topics like Core Values, Self-Regulation, and Restorative Justice.

Internship Includes:

• Immersive nature experience in a beautiful outdoor setting.
• Room and board included.
• Laundry service provided.
• Paid time off.
• Travel stipend for staff members traveling over 250 miles.
• Forge lifelong friendships in a supportive and growth-oriented community.

How to Apply:

Ready to make a difference while sharing your passion for martial arts? Apply now to be part of a summer filled with personal growth, meaningful connections, and transformative experiences for campers.

Camp Starfish is an equal-opportunity employer. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply. Join us in making this summer unforgettable for the campers who need it most!