Ceramics Specialist

Step into our ceramics studio this summer to lead, inspire, and shape creative confidence as the Ceramics Specialist at Willow Lake Day Camp. In this dynamic role, you will guide campers ages 3 through 15 through hands-on clay projects, hand-building, glazing, and introducing older campers to the potter wheel in a fun, supportive setting. You will collaborate daily with group counselors to deliver imaginative, age-appropriate projects that encourage every camper to explore their artistic talents. Working at Willow Lake is more than just a summer job; it is a masterclass in leadership, communication, time management, and youth mentorship. Join our spirited staff on 35 shaded acres and make your summer count by sparking a lifelong passion for the arts in young campers.

- Lead daily ceramics and pottery sessions for campers ages 3 to 15, adapting instruction and techniques to each age division and skill level.- Plan and facilitate creative, age-appropriate projects including pinch pots, coil vessels, slab construction, decorative tiles, and beginner wheel throwing for older campers.- Manage all ceramics operations, including tool organization, clay preparation, slip maintenance, glazing supervision, and daily cleanup.- Partner with group counselors at every period to coordinate group participation, maintain safe studio practices, and encourage every camper.- Champion the camp Dream Big philosophy by fostering an inclusive, patient, and encouraging environment where campers feel proud to express themselves.- Assist with camp-wide special events and participate actively in the overall camp community and spirit.

- Hands-on experience with ceramics, clay modeling, hand-building techniques, or pottery wheel operation through coursework, personal practice, or teaching.- Prior experience working with children in a camp, classroom, community center, studio, or youth recreation environment.- Demonstrated ability to implement creative art activities and break down artistic techniques into simple, engaging steps for young learners.- Throwing on wheel experience preferred but not required.

- Energetic, warm, and patient approach with a natural passion for mentoring children and celebrating their creative achievements.- Strong verbal communication, interpersonal, and group organization skills.- Collaborative mindset and eagerness to work alongside co-counselors, fellow arts specialists, and camp leadership.- Ability to help maintain an organized, clean, and safe studio space throughout an active camp day.- Commitment to full-season employment from June 21 through August 13, 2027, Monday through Friday, plus pre-camp orientation sessions.

- High school diploma or equivalent required.- Enrollment in or completion of a college degree program in Fine Arts, Studio Art, Art Education, Elementary Education, Child Psychology, or a related discipline is preferred.

- Ability to move actively throughout an open-air art studio and across our 35-acre outdoor campus in varied summer weather conditions.- Capability to lift and move pottery supplies, clay bags, buckets of glaze, and studio equipment.- Dexterity and stamina to demonstrate pottery techniques, assist campers at work tables, and manage cleanup throughout the camp day.

- Competitive seasonal compensation package.- Weekends and evenings completely free to relax and recharge.- Hot and cold lunch provided daily.- Real-world experience in curriculum implementation, classroom management, and project leadership that stands out on any future resume.- Opportunity for your child(ren) to attend camp at discounted tuition.- A warm, supportive staff community with long-standing camp traditions and lifelong friendships.

Willow Lake Day Camp is a premier family-owned day camp situated on 35 picturesque, shaded acres on the north shore of Lake Hopatcong in northwest New Jersey. For over 40 years, our dedicated leadership team and passionate staff have provided campers ages 3 to 15 with dynamic sports, arts, waterfront, adventure, and swim programs. Guided by our Dream Big philosophy, we partner with families all summer long to foster character, build self-esteem, and create lasting childhood memories.

Our 35-acre camp property is nestled along Lake Hopatcong in northwest New Jersey, offering a picturesque setting with dedicated art studios, open-air pavilions, grassy fields, and private lakefront areas. Staff members enjoy a modern yet rustic natural campus designed for outdoor fun, team collaboration, and creative exploration.