Dance Specialist

Step into the spotlight this summer as the Dance Specialist at Willow Lake Day Camp, where you will inspire campers ages 3 through 15 to discover their rhythm and express their creativity. In our dedicated air-conditioned dance studio, you will design and lead high-energy, age-appropriate dance routines, creative movement games, and spirited choreography across diverse musical styles. Working alongside supportive group counselors, you will cultivate an encouraging space where every camper feels confident stepping onto the dance floor and having fun. This role offers an incredible masterclass in group leadership, youth mentorship, and creative arts instruction that will elevate your career trajectory in education, performing arts, or child development. Join the Willow Lake family for the summer of 2027 and make your summer count by championing self-expression and building lifelong confidence in young performers.

- Design and lead engaging, age-appropriate dance lessons, creative movement games, and choreography for campers ages 3 through 15.- Cultivate an inclusive, upbeat studio atmosphere in our air-conditioned facility where campers of all ability levels feel celebrated and confident participating.- Partner with group counselors and unit leaders to maintain positive group dynamics and offer individualized encouragement to every camper.- Maintain dance studio equipment, music systems, and instructional props in an organized, clean, and safe condition throughout the day.- Model Willow Lake's Dream Big values by fostering empathy, teamwork, respect, and enthusiasm across every group session.

- Background in dance, cheer, musical theater, or creative movement through high school or college teams, dance studios, or recreational performance.- Previous experience working with or mentoring children in camp, school, studio, or community settings is preferred.- Demonstrated passion for teaching movement and helping young people build physical confidence and self-expression.

- Warm, enthusiastic, and patient communication style suited for engaging campers across diverse age groups.- Strong group management, organizational, and leadership capabilities with the ability to adapt choreography on the fly.- Ability to tailor dance instruction to varying developmental stages, from preschool creative play to advanced middle school routines.- Must be entering junior year of college or older; college students, educators, and performing arts majors are strongly encouraged to apply.- Full availability Monday through Friday for the 8-week summer season running June 21 through August 13, 2027.

- College student (rising junior or senior), college graduate, or equivalent work experience in related fields.- Academic coursework or degree focus in dance, theater, education, child development, or related fields is welcomed but not required.

- Ability to actively demonstrate dance routines, stretches, and energetic movements throughout the scheduled camp day.- Physical stamina to lead active studio sessions and navigate our 35-acre outdoor campus between activity periods.- Capability to manage studio setup, carry sound equipment or light props, and actively assist campers during movement activities.

- Build resume-defining leadership, creative direction, and classroom management skills highly valued in education and performing arts careers.- Competitive seasonal compensation with daily hot and cold lunches provided.- Monday through Friday day schedule (8:30 AM – 3:30 PM) with evenings and weekends free.- Opportunity for your child(ren) to attend camp at discounted tuition.- Hands-on professional support and mentorship from experienced directors, educators, and leadership team members.- Meaningful role within a positive, collaborative staff community on a scenic 35-acre lakefront campus.

Willow Lake Day Camp is a premier family-owned day camp situated on 35 scenic acres in Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey, serving children ages 3 to 15. For over 40 years, our program has blended state-of-the-art facilities, cherished traditions, and an enthusiastic staff dedicated to camper growth, character development, and safety. Guided by our Dream Big philosophy, we partner with families all year long to create an unforgettable, supportive summer community where every child and staff member thrives.

Located on the north shore of Lake Hopatcong in northwest New Jersey, our 35-acre campus combines shaded outdoor recreation areas with modern, air-conditioned indoor studios. All specialist positions take place entirely on-site across our scenic camp grounds and dedicated program facilities.