Staff FAQs

After your application is received and processed by our office, you will be contacted by one of our directors to set up a time for your interview.

Upon accepting a position, you will receive an offer letter and hiring packet via email. The hiring packet is to be signed and returned to the camp office within two weeks. You will then start receiving emails from the camp office updating you on information and forms you’ll need to get ready for the summer.

Paychecks are issued at the end of the summer for American staff. International staff will be paid via Cliq debit card twice during the summer.

We expect everyone to perform at the peak of their abilities during the day. A good night’s sleep is the best way to keep yourself healthy and on top of your game. All staff are required to be in their living quarters by curfew each evening.

All staff members are entitled to six days off during the summer. These days are assigned based on the staff member’s role in camp. Staff members are also assigned an hour off each day during normal program hours.

Living conditions at camp are simple. General counselors as well as coaches and instructors live with 12-16 campers in the bunks. Most other non-bunk staff live “dormitory style” with other staff members.

Absolutely! Our comprehensive staff  training program is held prior to the arrival of the campers. Coaches and instructors arrive at camp two weeks before Opening Day and general counselors arrive the week before Opening Day. Staff orientation provides the tools and skills necessary to guarantee a successful summer for all, and does so within the framework of building a Jewish community. Our goals are to give the staff members the chance to get know one another and start building working relationships, as well as to prepare staff members for the challenges of working in a residential camp setting. The program includes a wide variety of activities, such as group-building experiences, training sessions, and program planning time.

Special diets, e.g., vegetarian, gluten-free, food allergies, etc. can be accommodated. We are a nut sensitive camp. If you require such assistance, it is your responsibility to make such arrangements in advance with the camp.

West Stockbridge is the quintessential Berkshires town. There are a few coffee shops and restaurants, and beautiful ambiance. West Stockbridge is located between many different towns, and is not far from anything. You can get to Great Barrington, Pittsfield, Stockbridge, and any number of great museums in thirty minutes or less. The Berkshires is one of the premiere summer resort areas in the northeastern United States, with fantastic hiking and extraordinary cultural events.

Computers are available for staff use in the Staff Lounge. Staff members have free access to Wifi in specified areas of camp.

Camp provides laundry service on a weekly basis. If you prefer to do your own laundry, there is a laundromat within driving distance to camp.

Yes, you may bring your car to camp. There is a designated staff parking area.

Being on staff at any residential camp is perhaps the most difficult and most fulfilling job you will ever have. A summer at Crane Lake will be challenging, both physically and emotionally, but most of all it will be fun! As a staff member at Crane Lake, you’ll have the opportunity to experience life in our unique community, positively impact the lives of campers, and create friendships that will last a lifetime.