Science Specialist

Ignite curiosity, spark wonder, and lead hands-on discovery as the Science Specialist at Willow Lake Day Camp for the Summer 2027 season. In this dynamic role, you will lead engaging Super Science experiments and creative STEM projects for campers ages 3 through 15 across our 35-acre outdoor campus. You will transform complex concepts into exciting, accessible activities that inspire kids to ask big questions, stretch their comfort zones, and discover new passions. Working alongside enthusiastic group counselors, you will cultivate a safe, supportive studio environment where every child feels empowered to experiment and learn through play. This position offers aspiring educators, STEM enthusiasts, and youth mentors the ultimate hands-on leadership masterclass in curriculum delivery and classroom management.

- Plan and deliver energetic, age-appropriate science experiments and interactive STEM projects for campers from Pre-K through 8th grade.- Guide campers through fun, safe discoveries such as slime chemistry, model rocketry, solar prints, physics challenges, and natural science explorations.- Foster an inclusive, encouraging learning environment where curiosity, teamwork, and creative problem-solving take center stage.- Collaborate with group counselors to support camper engagement, manage materials, and ensure smooth transitions between activity periods.- Maintain an organized, well-stocked Super Science space with safety protocols and cleanliness at all times.- Adapt demonstrations and explanations dynamically to match the developmental levels and enthusiasm of different age groups.- Serve as an inspiring camp role model, championing Willow Lake’s Dream Big values throughout daily camp life.

- Experience working with children in a camp, classroom, after-school program, tutoring, or recreational setting.- Background or active interest in general sciences, STEM education, nature studies, or elementary education.- Demonstrated ability to explain foundational science concepts in a fun, lively, and approachable manner.- Track record of team collaboration, positive energy, and dependable communication.

- Genuine passion for inspiring young learners through playful, hands-on experimentation.- High energy, patience, and a warm approach to mentoring children of all skill and interest levels.- Strong group management, organizational, and creative problem-solving capabilities.- Commitment to full-season employment from June 21 through August 13, 2027, Monday through Friday.- Ability to participate in pre-camp staff orientation and safety training sessions.

- Bachelor’s degree (completed) or equivalent professional experience as an adult educator or creative arts professional.- College coursework or degree in Education, Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Science), Psychology, or a related field preferred.- Current teachers, student teachers, and undergraduate or graduate students are strongly encouraged to apply.

- Ability to actively lead demonstrations and experiments outdoors in summer weather.- Capacity to stand, walk, bend, lift, and carry activity supplies.- Stamina to navigate a 35-acre outdoor campus comfortably throughout the camp day.

- Competitive seasonal salary with direct leadership and classroom management experience.- Daily complimentary hot and cold lunches provided.- Weekends and evenings off.- Comprehensive pre-camp orientation.- Opportunity for your child(ren) to attend camp at discounted tuition.- Welcoming, spirited staff community with lasting professional connections and lifelong friendships.

Willow Lake Day Camp is a premier family-owned day camp in northwest New Jersey serving children ages 3 to 15 for over 40 years. Our mission is to inspire confidence, character development, and lifelong friendships through our values-based Dream Big philosophy. We provide a collaborative, highly supportive workplace where staff members gain real leadership skills while delivering unforgettable summer experiences.

Our picturesque 35-acre campus in Lake Hopatcong features rolling shaded grounds, private waterfront facilities, modern heated pools, and state-of-the-art activity pavilions. It provides an inspiring, safe, and dynamic outdoor setting designed specifically for youth development and active summer programming.