Farm Specialist

Step up as the Farm Specialist at Willow Lake Day Camp and lead our interactive outdoor farm program for campers ages 3 through 15. In this dynamic role, you will bring our farm to life by teaching campers how to care for, feed, and respectfully interact with friendly animals like goats, sheep, llamas and alpacas. You will collaborate daily with group counselors to guide hands-on animal encounters that inspire curiosity, empathy, and environmental appreciation. This position is the ultimate launchpad to develop practical leadership, group facilitation, and youth mentorship skills in an energetic summer environment. Make your summer count by becoming a standout role model and creating unforgettable outdoor memories for hundreds of eager young campers.

- Lead engaging, age-appropriate educational sessions and interactive animal encounters at The Farm for campers entering Pre-K through 10th grade.- Guide campers in gentle feeding and hands-on care routines with farm animals including alpacas, goats, sheep, bunnies, lizards and more.- Foster a welcoming, safe, and supportive outdoor learning environment rooted in our Dream Big values of empathy, respect, and discovery.- Collaborate daily with group counselors and Unit Leaders to manage group dynamics and ensure enthusiastic camper participation.- Maintain daily animal welfare standards, feeding schedules, hydration, and clean enclosure conditions in partnership with camp facilities.- Teach foundational animal safety rules, handwashing hygiene, and respectful handling techniques to campers of all experience levels.- Inspire confidence in hesitant campers by providing patient, positive encouragement during new animal experiences.

- Experience working with, caring for, or handling farm animals, pets, or domestic livestock.- Prior background supervising, mentoring, or coaching children in camp, school, youth club, or recreational settings.- Demonstrated ability to communicate clear instructions, spark curiosity, and lead groups with warmth and enthusiasm.

- Genuine passion for animal care, outdoor education, nature, and youth mentorship.- Strong interpersonal and communication skills to collaborate effectively with staff and connect with young campers.- Dependable work ethic and a patient, safety-conscious demeanor in outdoor group settings.- Commitment to being a positive role model and championing camp traditions and safety protocols throughout the season.- Must be at least entering senior year of college (college students, educators, and animal science or education majors are strongly encouraged to apply).

- Current college student pursuing studies in animal science, veterinary technology, education, biology, environmental studies, recreation, or related fields.

- Comfort working outdoors in various summer weather conditions.- Ability to stand, walk, bend, crouch, and move easily around animal enclosures.- Capability to safely lift and carry farm supplies, animal feed, and water buckets.- High energy and stamina to lead multiple engaging camper sessions throughout an active 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM camp day.

- Competitive seasonal compensation.- Complimentary hot and cold daily lunches provided on site.- Extensive pre-camp training.- Hands-on leadership, public speaking, and animal facility experience that strengthens resumes across education, veterinary, and life science career paths.- Opportunity for your child(ren) to attend camp at discounted tuition.- An energetic, supportive staff on a scenic 35-acre campus with deep traditions, team camaraderie, and lifelong friendships.

Willow Lake Day Camp is a premier family-owned day camp situated on 35 shaded acres along the north shore of Lake Hopatcong in northwest New Jersey. For over 40 years, our dynamic program has provided children ages 3 through 15 with safe, spirited, and growth-oriented summer experiences across arts, athletics, adventure, waterfront, and farm activities. Guided by our Dream Big philosophy, we empower both campers and staff to discover their strengths, build character, and forge lifelong friendships.

Our picturesque 35-acre campus in Lake Hopatcong features rolling hills, expansive athletic fields, shaded outdoor areas, and modern indoor facilities. Campers and staff thrive in a scenic setting complete with dedicated farm areas, private lakefront waterfronts, and heated pool complexes.