Sneaker & Streetwear Design Instructor, Camp Kaleidoscope, Summer Day Camp

JCC Greater Boston • Newton, MA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

JCC Greater Boston’s Camp Kaleidoscope is looking for an energetic and creative Sneaker & Streetwear Design Instructor to inspire young artists this summer in Newton, MA. This role involves teaching fashion design and costuming classes for children entering grades 4-8. Camp Kaleidoscope is a summer day camp that draws creative campers interested in the arts, science, and the outdoors. Camp Counselors and activity specialists guide campers in various activities as they develop and build self-confidence. The camp environment is lively, playful, and warm, fostering lifelong friendships among campers and staff. JCC Greater Boston offers free bus service for staff from several surrounding towns.

Requirements

• 1+ season (summer camp, semester, other) instructor experience planning and leading activities for children.
• Genuine enjoyment of working with children and helping them grow.
• Passion and expertise in your specialty area (arts, sports, music, cooking, science, etc.).
• Ability to plan and lead age-appropriate, engaging, and inclusive activities.
• Excellent group management skills.
• Strong communication, teamwork, and collaboration skills with campers and staff.
• Safety awareness and ability to manage risks during activities.
• Creativity, flexibility, and patience to adapt activities for diverse camper needs.
• Positive, energetic attitude and commitment to fostering an inclusive, joyful camp environment.
• Proactive problem-solving and willingness to ask for guidance when needed.
• Self-starter who takes the initiative.
• Ability to work well with others, building/sustaining collaborative solid relationships.
• Ability to manage situations effectively and diplomatically and ask for help, guidance, or clarification when needed.
• Commitment to build strong relationships with campers, co-workers, and camp leadership.
• Able to work well in a busy, dynamic, and sometimes noisy environment involving multiple tasks and priorities.
• Ability to work in a variety of weather conditions for extended periods of time.
• Able to lift and carry objects weighing 30-40 pounds.
• Able to sit and kneel; getting down at eye level with children regularly.

Nice To Haves

• High school degree preferred.
• College degree, concentration, certification, or equivalent experience in specialty area preferred.
• Portfolio or examples of projects preferred.
• Customer service experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead 4 or 5 Sneaker & Streetwear design classes each day, covering topics such as t-shirts, sneakers, hoodies, sweats, socks, accessories, tie-dye, and up-cycling.
• Utilize a variety of equipment including sewing machines, Cricut, heat presses, and 3D printers.
• Plan, prepare, and lead age-appropriate activities in the specialty area.
• Ensure the safety and well-being of campers during activities.
• Create a fun, inclusive, and supportive environment that encourages skill-building and exploration.
• Work in partnership with counselors and camp leadership to provide a cohesive, positive camper experience.
• Maintain, organize, and request necessary supplies and equipment.
• Adapt activities to meet the needs and abilities of diverse campers.
• Support camp-wide special events and large-group programming as assigned.
• Assist with overall camp operations as needed (e.g., drop-off/pick-up, transitions, lunch, supervision).

Benefits

• Free bus service for staff from Cambridge, Brookline, Jamaica Plain, West Roxbury, Wayland, Framingham, Natick, Needham, Newton and Wellesley.
• JCC Health & Fitness center access.
• Supportive, vibrant in-person work environment.
• Free or discounted enrollment for camp programs may be available for camp employees’ children based on availability.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED