The Staff Experience
Make a difference in the lives of children every day!
Beginning in 1979, Guided Discoveries is a non-profit 501(c)(3) that was founded with the mission of making a positive difference in the lives of children. We provide quality educational programs throughout the school year and summer camps for children from all over the country and abroad.
CHAMPION THE MISSION
It is our instinct and obligation to enhance children’s lives toward a more productive future. We seek individuals who will champion our mission to make a positive difference in the lives of children through unique opportunities for discovery.
INCLUSIVE
We treat every employee fairly, ethically, with dignity and respect while expecting them to serve the children with 100% dedication. Guided Discoveries is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome, affirm, and support young people and adults of all abilities and disabilities, races, ethnicities, socio-economic backgrounds, sexual orientation, gender identities and expressions, and religion.
FAR MORE THAN A JOB
Working with us is a tremendously rewarding and life-changing experience! Each program offers a supportive and knowledgeable community of individuals that are collectively working toward a common goal – to make a difference. Every position is equally important to the success of the program. It is very rare to have the ability to live and work in such a beautiful location doing such meaningful work.
FAQs
Where are we located?
Our programs operate at various facilities in California and Virginia. See our Facilities page for more information about these locations.
Guided Discoveries Business Office is located in beautiful San Juan Capistrano, California. The business office houses the administrative, creative and leadership teams.
Can I apply to multiple jobs?
Yes, you are welcome to apply for multiple jobs and different facilities. Each job could have a different supervisor in charge of hiring, please be sure to notify the person you are communicating with if you have applied for any other positions.
What is the hiring process?
Please see New Hire Portal page for expectations on the hiring process.
Will Wi-Fi/cell service be available?
Access to the internet can be very dependent on the facility. Wi-Fi and cell service can be limited at certain facilities and times due to the location. Please discuss any concerns or needs with the director during the interview process.
Are there laundry facilities?
Yes. There are free laundry facilities on campus. You will have to supply your own detergent, which can be purchased in town during your time off.
What is your inclusion policy?
GDI strives to create a safe and inclusive environment that celebrates diversity and fosters positive relationships. Please see our camper and staff inclusion policy.
What is your drug, alcohol, and smoking policy?
Due to the nature of our work with children, we have strict policies regarding drugs, alcohol, and smoking. We drug test before hiring and randomly throughout the year. GDI has a zero-tolerance policy on drugs, including marijuana. There are specific limitations on alcohol consumption depending on the operational season and the current role of the employee. Alcohol consumption is restricted to specific areas in camp, and we do not permit underage drinking. Smoking is discouraged and limited to specific areas and restricted times, out of the view of campers. If you have concerns or further questions, please ask for more information from your hiring manager.
What is your policy regarding COVID-19 vaccination?
Due to the nature of our work with children and the rapid turnover of our school and summer guests throughout the year, we do require that all staff are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. For questions regarding our full COVID-19 policies, please ask for more information from your hiring manager.
QUESTIONS?
Please contact Human Resources Director, Rebecca Parrott, at rebecca@gdi.org.