Minnesota Basecamp Coordinator

Overview

The Basecamp Coordinator plays a vital behind-the-scenes role supporting BCM’s canoe programming in Northern Minnesota. Based at our canoe basecamp near Tower/Ely, MN, this role supports the Minneapolis–St. Paul Regional Program Manager and field instructors by managing basecamp operations before and after youth trips. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys hands-on work, values independence, and thrives supporting youth programs through logistics, organization, and care for shared spaces. The Basecamp Coordinator serves as BCM’s primary on-the-ground presence in Northern Minnesota and works collaboratively with staff based in the Twin Cities and across the country. The Basecamp Coordinator supports all aspects of basecamp operations before, during, and after youth programs. Responsibilities include assisting with seasonal opening and closing of basecamp, clearing trails and vegetation, setting up and taking down canvas tents, managing water systems, refilling propane tanks, updating canoe registration, and preparing watercraft for the season. Ongoing site maintenance includes mowing and weed management, repairing canoe thwarts, yokes, and portage pads, maintaining inventories of gear, food, medications, and first aid supplies, cleaning and maintaining outhouses, the pavilion, and garage, and safely storing and maintaining tools and equipment. The role also provides essential program support by purchasing and packing food, organizing and preparing gear, outfitting participants with properly fitting equipment, preparing meals while groups are on-site, supporting gear return, cleaning, laundry, and storage, organizing staging areas between trips, and administering and tracking completion of program surveys. In addition, the Basecamp Coordinator participates in adult team planning calls, maintains regular and proactive communication with the Regional Program Manager, and shares observations and feedback related to program logistics and operations.
Compensation: This is a seasonal, part-time, hourly position with anticipated dates from May 2026 through September 1, 2026, with optional additional work available during basecamp opening or closing periods. The role averages approximately 20 hours per week, with a maximum of 340 total hours over the season. Compensation is $20 per hour, dependent on experience. This position does not include health, dental, or vision benefits; however, accrued sick time and workers’ compensation coverage are provided, along with access to outdoor industry pro deals after two weeks of employment. Optional on-site housing may be available with prior approval and includes rustic camping accommodations (tent or personal vehicle/camper) with access to electricity, showers, and running water.

Tagged as: Backcountry Skills, Camp Counselors, Camp Staff, Cooks and Food Service, Crew, Instruction and Guiding, Support Staff, Teaching/Education, Trail Supervisor, Crew, and Leaders, Water Skills

Qualifications:

Commitment to BCM’s mission and values
Ability to work independently with minimal in-person supervision
Strong communication and reliability
Experience maintaining a campground, basecamp, or physical site
Ability to lift and carry up to 60 pounds
Clean driving record and ability to transport gear
Personal transportation available (mileage reimbursed)
Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certification or willingness to obtain
Ability to pass a background check

Preferred Skills:

Experience working with youth from diverse racial, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds
Ability to build positive relationships with instructors, youth, and partners
Spanish, Hmong, or Somali language skills
Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification
Wilderness Water Safety or Lifeguard certification
Familiarity with the Tower and Ely, MN communities
Experience managing risk in outdoor program environments