Zip Line Specialist

Step up to an unforgettable summer leadership experience as a Zip Line Specialist on our scenic Lake Hopatcong campus. In this high-energy role, you will facilitate thrilling aerial adventures across our six camp zip lines, including the Skyrider, our signature 450-foot double zip line over the lake. You will guide campers ages 3 through 15 through proper harness fittings, pre-flight safety briefings, and exhilarating launches from tree-top platforms. Working closely with group counselors and fellow outdoor adventure specialists, you will build camper confidence, coach kids through their fears, and celebrate every milestone achievement. Trade a conventional summer job for hands-on mentorship, real-world risk management experience, and the rewarding feeling of helping kids soar to new heights.

- **Lead Aerial Operations:** Facilitate safe and spirited zip line experiences across camp courses and our signature 450-foot Skyrider dual zip line over the lake.- **Empower and Mentor Campers:** Coach campers ages 3 to 15 through their comfort zones with patient encouragement, active listening, and celebratory high-fives.- **Execute Safety Protocols:** Inspect, fit, and secure all personal protective equipment (PPE), including climbing harnesses, helmets, trolleys, and lanyards prior to every launch.- **Conduct Daily Equipment Checks:** Perform daily pre-use inspections and post-use logging of cables, hardware, platforms, and safety gear alongside the adventure team.- **Collaborate with Group Counselors:** Partner with unit leaders and counselors to maintain group flow, keep waiting campers engaged, and support individual camper needs.

- Prior experience working with children in youth programs, camp environments, coaching, recreation, or outdoor activities is preferred.- Basic familiarity with high ropes courses, climbing structures, or recreational ziplining is a plus, though comprehensive on-site training is provided.- Not scared of heights.- Demonstrated enthusiasm for outdoor recreation, youth mentorship, and active team collaboration.

- Must be a college graduate (or equivalent experience).- Strong verbal communication skills with the ability to explain safety instructions clearly and warmly to young children.- High degree of personal accountability, attentiveness, and proactive situational awareness.- Ability to stay calm, encouraging, and positive when helping hesitant campers overcome heights.- Must complete all required pre-camp outdoor adventure orientations and safety certifications.

- Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience required.- Graduation from an accredited college or university is preferred; coursework in Outdoor Education, Recreation Management, Kinesiology, Education, or Psychology is a great match.

- Comfort working at elevated heights on platforms and canopy courses for extended periods.- Ability to work outdoors across all summer weather conditions on our 35-acre wooded campus.- Physical stamina to stand, walk across rolling terrain, lift and handle gear, and assist campers with harnesses throughout the camp day.- Full range of motion, hand dexterity, and stamina required for handling tensioned cables, carabiners, and safety lines.

- **Standout Resume Experience:** Develop transferable skills in team leadership, risk management, interpersonal communication, and active coaching.- **Comprehensive Pre-Camp Training:** Receive specialized, hands-on instruction in adventure park operations, rigging, and harness management from certified professionals.- **All-Inclusive Camp Perks:** Complimentary hot and cold lunch daily and the opportunity for your child(ren) to attend camp at discounted tuition.- **Unbeatable Community Culture:** Join a passionate, supportive staff family and build lifelong friendships in a spirited outdoor setting.- **Consistent Monday–Friday Schedule:** Enjoy evenings and weekends off with no overnight commitments (June 21 – August 13, 2027).

Willow Lake Day Camp is a premier family-owned day camp nestled on 35 shaded acres along the shores of Lake Hopatcong in northwest New Jersey. For over forty years, our team has delivered dynamic, age-appropriate summer programs spanning athletics, arts, swimming, water sports, and outdoor adventure for children ages 3 through 15. We are committed to fostering a warm, spirited camp culture where both campers and staff discover their strengths, build character, and dream big.

Willow Lake Day Camp operates across a vibrant 35-acre outdoor property featuring shaded woodlands, manicured athletic fields, four heated swimming pools, private lakefront access, and purpose-built aerial adventure courses. All specialist activities take place on-site at 200 NJ-181 in Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey.