Climbing Tower Specialist

Step up to lead, inspire, and elevate camper confidence as our Climbing Tower Specialist for the summer 2027 season. In this high-energy role, you will guide campers across diverse skill levels up our 30-foot climbing tower and supervise exhilarating zipline descents in a supportive, safety-first environment. You will coach children through healthy risk-taking, celebrate their breakthroughs, and help them stretch beyond their comfort zones. Collaborating closely with passionate counselors and our outdoor adventure team, you will create an encouraging space where every climber feels empowered to reach new heights. Joining Willow Lake means building valuable coaching, risk management, and communication skills that will stand out on your resume long after summer ends.

- Daily facilitation of climbing sessions on our 30-foot, multi-faced climbing tower and manage smooth, exciting zipline runs.- Fit campers properly into safety harnesses and helmets while conducting thorough equipment checks before every climb.- Deliver clear, encouraging instruction on climbing techniques, foot placement, and safety protocols tailored to campers entering second grade and older.- Coach campers through moments of hesitation, fostering resilience, self-confidence, and a supportive team atmosphere.- Partner with group counselors to maintain group flow, positive dynamics, and enthusiastic cheering for every climber.- Complete daily safety inspections of tower elements, ropes, auto-belays, and hardware, upholding camp safety standards and American Camp Association practices.

- Prior experience or personal enthusiasm for rock climbing, ropes courses, outdoor recreation, or belaying is preferred.- Background working with children as a coach, camp counselor, mentor, or youth activity leader.- Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly, provide patient encouragement, and motivate youth in active outdoor environments.

- Strong interpersonal communication skills with an enthusiastic, supportive, and safety-conscious attitude.- Willingness to participate fully in pre-camp outdoor adventure orientation and technical safety training at Willow Lake.- Passion for mentoring youth, building character, and championing the camp Dream Big philosophy.

- Bachelor’s degree (completed) or equivalent professional experience (education experience preferred)- Degree in Outdoor Recreation, Physical Education, Education, Kinesiology, Psychology, or a related field preferred.

- Ability to stand, bend, and move actively outdoors across varied terrain in summer weather conditions for extended periods.- Physical stamina to fit harnesses, guide climbers at ground level and elevated platforms, and handle climbing hardware.- Ability to lift and carry safety gear, ropes, and adventure equipment.- Visual and auditory acuity to supervise climbers attentively and maintain strict situational awareness throughout the adventure area.- Not afraid of heights.

- Competitive seasonal compensation with high-impact leadership experience that sets your resume apart.- Daily complimentary hot and cold lunches.- Opportunity for your child(ren) to attend camp at discounted tuition.- A close-knit, spirited staff culture with lifelong friendships and professional mentorship from seasoned educators.- Evenings and weekends completely free to recharge and enjoy your summer.

Willow Lake Day Camp is a premier family-owned summer day camp in Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey, serving children ages 3 through 15 for over 40 years. Our dynamic program blends athletic, artistic, waterfront, and outdoor adventure activities designed to help campers build confidence and character. Guided by our Dream Big philosophy, our passionate staff creates a warm, spirited community where campers and leaders alike can discover their full potential.

Our expansive 35-acre campus is nestled on the scenic north shore of Lake Hopatcong in northwest New Jersey, surrounded by shaded woodlands and rolling hills. The property features modern athletic facilities, creative studios, four heated swimming pools, and dedicated adventure courses including our signature 30-foot climbing tower.