Mining Co Specialist

Step up and lead an unforgettable outdoor discovery program as our Willow Lake Mining Co. Specialist for the summer of 2027. You will bring the thrill of exploration to life as campers ages 3 through 15 sift through mining rough at our sluice to uncover gems, fossils, and seashells. Working hands-on with group counselors and enthusiastic young campers, you will turn every session into an engaging learning adventure and celebration of curiosity. This role is a prime opportunity to build tangible skills in experiential facilitation, youth mentorship, and outdoor activity management. Trade the ordinary desk routine for 35 scenic acres where your leadership sparks lifelong summer memories.

- Lead dynamic, hands-on mining sluice sessions for campers ages 3–15, guiding them through sifting techniques and specimen discovery.- Facilitate interactive identification stations where campers classify and learn about their found minerals, gemstones, fossils, and seashells.- Partner with group counselors and unit leaders to maintain an encouraging, supportive, and well-managed activity environment.- Oversee daily station logistics, including sluice water flow, material stocking, specimen sorting, and cleanup.- Adapt activity pacing and storytelling for different age divisions, from curious Pre-K Little Willows to goal-oriented Senior Campers.- Champion camp-wide spirit, safety protocols, and the Willow Lake Dream Big values throughout every camp day.

- Previous experience working with or supervising children in casual settings such as summer camps, classrooms, after-school programs, or youth clubs.- An interest in earth science, geology, outdoor education, nature exploration, or hands-on crafting preferred but not required.- Demonstrated ability to engage groups of children with energetic storytelling and patient, positive encouragement.- Comfort facilitating outdoor, water-based sluicing activities in a vibrant camp atmosphere.

- High energy, warm interpersonal skills, and a genuine passion for mentoring youth.- Strong organizational habits and the adaptability to run continuous, engaging activity periods throughout the camp day.- Excellent verbal communication skills to connect with campers, fellow staff members, and camp leadership.- Must be college graduate or an educator/young professional available for the full camp season.- Ability to attend all mandatory pre-camp orientation and training sessions.

- Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in education, recreation, science, or related fields.

- Ability to work outdoors in summer weather conditions across our 35-acre shaded campus.- Capability to stand, walk, bend, and lift buckets of mining rough or equipment weighing up to 20 pounds.

- Comprehensive leadership, group management, and youth development training that elevates any resume.- Competitive seasonal salary.- Daily hot and cold lunches provided throughout the summer.- Opportunity for your child(ren) to attend camp at discounted tuition.- A tight-knit, collaborative staff community with evening staff events and lifelong friendships.- Weekends and evenings free to enjoy your summer outside of camp hours.

Willow Lake Day Camp is a premier, family-owned day camp for children ages 3 to 15 located in Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey. For over 40 years, our team has delivered dynamic summer experiences centered around personal growth, safety, and character development through our Dream Big philosophy. We provide a supportive, high-energy environment where both campers and staff thrive, build confidence, and create lifelong memories.

Our picturesque 35-acre campus sits on the north shore of Lake Hopatcong and features expansive playing fields, modern pool complexes, shaded woodlands, and dedicated creative studios. All programming takes place on-site at 200 NJ-181 in Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey.