Typical Employment Dates May 23rd - August 11th
Each summer, more than 20,000 scouts travel from all corners of the US and abroad to participate in the rich backcountry program and trekking opportunities available at Philmont Scout Ranch. Over 30 staffed backcountry camps scattered throughout the 140,171-acre facility provide assorted programs ranging from rock climbing to horseback riding to mine tours and living history. Since 1939, Philmont programs have attracted more than 1 million participants. The Philmont property also serves as the national training center for Scouting America and home to the National Scout Museum.
Philmont hires more than 1,000 seasonal staff to operate and support programs in outdoor skills, backcountry adventure, family adventure, living history, training, food service, maintenance, retail operations, guest services, museums, ranching and horse/livestock, and administration.
Length of employment varies with job assignment, but the majority of summer positions run from May 23rd to August 11th. Preference is given to applicants who can fulfill a commitment for the full season.
Salary is based on positions responsibility with consideration given to the individual’s experience. Starting base salary is $1,450 per month plus room and board. A uniform voucher is provided to help cover basic uniform needs. Additional uniform parts are the responsibility of the staff member.
Hiring for the summer season occurs on a rolling basis with the bulk of interviews taking place from September through April. There is no application deadline, but applications are typically reviewed by hiring managers in the order they are received and routed based on the position choices entered. All first year applicants should choose at least one base camp position
International Staff Interest
Scouting America’s International Camp Staff Program (ICSP) has returned for 2025! This program supports Scouters from abroad who would like to serve in a program-focused role on our summer staff using a J-1 Exchange Visitor Program Visa.
For more information on the ICSP, please click here.
Philmont Staff Association
The Philmont Staff Association is an independent organization, separate from Scouting America, that supports current and former staff at Philmont Scout Ranch.
Connect with current, past, and future members through reunions, PSA treks, and the bi-monthly High Country publication. Support projects that will benefit future staff and contribute to the scholarship fund which awards trek scholarships to participants and academic scholarships to staff members.
Membership levels starting at $20! Join today!