Summer Teen Internship

Hands-On Experience for Teens. From Camper to Leader

Summer Internship is designed for motivated teens ages 13+ who’ve completed our Leadership Training and are ready to turn their skills into action. Over 20 days, interns gain real-world experience assisting at summer camps helping lead paddling adventures, mentoring younger campers, and learning teamwork, communication, and customer service. It’s the perfect bridge between training and future employment, giving teens the confidence and experience to become the next generation of outdoor leaders.

Internships run throughout the summer camp season. Accepted interns are scheduled for 15 days with flexible dates coordinated around availability.

Dates: June 8 – August 18

Time: 8:30am - 4:30pm

Interns join camp for full camp days, Monday–Friday, gaining experience assisting instructors, leading activities, and supporting daily camp operations.

Ages: Teens Age 13 - 16

Once teens complete the leadership training program, they can apply for our internship program. If accepted, teens will take on real-world leadership experience at summer camp.

Location: Alameda, CA

Held at Ballena Bay Marina in Alameda, CA, perfect for paddling, learning, and leadership adventures on the San Francisco Bay.

Interns help lead summer camp, building leadership, communication, and teamwork skills while becoming an essential part of the instructor team.

Commitment: 20 Days

Safety & Water: Requirements

Be focused on risk management, have a current CPR/First Aid certification, be a strong swimmer, and be comfortable in open water environments.

What are the Teen Internship Program Objectives?

Develop real-world leadership skills by assisting instructors and mentoring younger campers.
Practice risk management both on and off the water, learning how to keep campers safe and make smart decisions in dynamic conditions.
Build teamwork and communication skills through collaboration with staff, peers, and campers.
Gain customer service experience by interacting with families and helping ensure smooth camp operations.
Enhance paddling, outdoor, and rescue skills through continued on-water training and support from experienced guides.
Grow confidence and independence by taking on new challenges and responsibilities each day.
Prepare for future opportunities—interns who excel may be invited to apply for paid Junior Staff positions or future leadership roles at Gaia Guides.

What does the Internship Program involve?

The Internship Program provides teens with 20 days of structured learning and guided experience over the summer, typically on a 3–5 day per week schedule. The goal is to help them grow as responsible, confident outdoor leaders through educational, hands-on activities such as:

Mentoring and supporting younger campers, strengthening communication, patience, and leadership
Learning group management and safety awareness, including how to evaluate risk and make responsible decisions on and off the water
Developing customer service and interpersonal skills by engaging positively with campers, parents, and staff
Practicing equipment preparation and care, learning how to organize, inspect, and manage paddling gear to support safety and program quality

Parents can feel confident knowing the program includes a strong mentorship component. Interns receive weekly check-ins, ongoing coaching, mid-term feedback, and a final evaluation, all designed to help them reflect on their progress, build new competencies, and grow more confident in their abilities as emerging outdoor leaders.

What is the application and interview process?

To apply, prospective interns must:

Complete the Gaia Guides Leadership Training
Complete the Internship Application, including Cover Letter and Resume
Participate in an Interview with direct supervisors.
Submit written Parental Consent for the internship application and schedule commitment.

Admission to the program is competitive due to limited space, making the application process an excellent exercise in preparing for real-world job applications.

Quick Teen Internship FAQs

Each day includes a blend of shadowing instructors, supporting activities, practicing leadership skills, participating in team briefings, and reflecting on learning goals. Interns rotate through different educational experiences on-water support, land-based activities, equipment care, and group facilitation so they gain well-rounded exposure.
Yes, the program offers flexible scheduling. Interns choose 20 days across the three-month summer season, and we coordinate availability to create a consistent, manageable schedule.
Interns work closely with certified instructors and senior staff at all times. They are never responsible for groups on their own. Every task whether on the water or on land is supervised, guided, and used as a learning opportunity within a structured mentorship model.
Absolutely. Breaks, hydration, and rest are built into the schedule the same way they are for staff and campers. Interns are encouraged to communicate openly about fatigue or challenges so mentors can support them appropriately.
Interns learn communication, professionalism, responsibility, and how to navigate real workplace expectations in a safe, supportive environment. They practice interview skills, resume building, workplace etiquette, and professional communication providing a strong foundation for future paid opportunities.
While not guaranteed, exceptional interns may be invited to apply for a Junior Staff role in future seasons. Selection is based on performance, maturity, professionalism, and demonstrated growth throughout the internship.
Mentors use challenges as teaching moments. Instructors provide guidance, model techniques, and break tasks down into manageable steps. The program’s goal is learning not perfection so mistakes are expected and embraced as part of the growth process.

Teen Leadership Training

Gaia Guides’ Teen Leadership Training in Alameda is designed for motivated teens ages 13–16 who are ready to step up, take initiative, and build real-world leadership skills. Over three inspiring days, participants learn teamwork, communication, risk management, and problem-solving through hands-on adventure activities both on and off the water. The program also includes CPR and First Aid certification

June 8- August 14