National Jamboree looking for security, EMS volunteers

Photo by Michael Roytek

The 2023 National Jamboree is going to be big, not only in terms of the number of attendees, but also in terms of the massive high-adventure base that’s hosting it.

The BSA is currently recruiting volunteers to serve on the Jamboree’s emergency management team, responsible for providing security and emergency medical services, and otherwise doing what they can to make sure the event runs smoothly.

The security team is looking for volunteers willing to take on a variety of assignments each day at different locations throughout the Summit — no previous experience required.

The EMS team is looking for certified emergency medical technicians with up-to-date CPR training to provide high-quality service to participants, visitors and Jamboree staff. Applicants should be willing to work a 24-hour shift in a high-adventure setting, which will include riding on a military medic unit, utility vehicle, bicycle or patrolling the grounds on foot with other providers from around the world.

Read on for more details.

Security positions, explained

Security volunteers are tasked with securing the Jamboree site using a combination of foot and mounted patrols, as well as manning entry control points. Law enforcement experience is not required, but if you are a current or retired law enforcement officer, please be prepared to provide your agency’s information on your application and proof of your current status.

Experienced personnel may be asked to conduct investigations.

Physical demands are dependent on position and range from high to low activity. Some personnel may be required to drive UTVs while others may be assigned to foot or bike patrols.

Photo by Stephan van der Werp

EMS positions, explained

EMS volunteers will join a diverse group of personnel trained to provide emergency medical care in the field to the Jamboree’s staff, participants and visitors. All volunteers will be managed by experienced providers under a unified command system. Those who join this group will be assigned rotating shifts that run between 10 and 24 hours, with ample personal time to enjoy the Jamboree during your off time.

Physical demands range from low to high, depending on the area of the Jamboree to which you are assigned. Duties may include patient movement, and some personnel may be required to drive UTVs while others may be assigned to foot or bike patrols.

Current certification as an EMT or higher in your home state is required.

How do I sign up to work at the Jamboree?

The National Jamboree is July 19-28, but Jamboree Service Team (JST) volunteers are expected to arrive by July 16 and leave July 29.

Volunteers can sign up to work the entire two weeks or choose to work just the first or second half of the Jamboree.

Prospective staffers can sign up at the JST website. JST members serving on the EMS or security teams must be a minimum of 18 years old on the first day of the Jamboree.

All adults participating in the National Jamboree must be registered with the BSA and have taken Youth Protection Training on or after July 19, 2022.


About Aaron Derr 425 Articles
Aaron Derr is the senior editor of Scout Life and Scouting magazines, and also a former Cubmaster and Scouts BSA volunteer.