Animation Instructor, Camp Kaleidoscope, Summer Day Camp Job at JCC Greater Bost

Job Description

Animation Instructor – Camp Kaleidoscope, the JCC Summer Day Camp in Newton, Massachusetts. Teach animation and cartooning classes to children in grades 4‑8 during the 8‑week summer program (June 22 – August 21).

Job Details

• Hourly position, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm, Monday – Friday
• Competitive starting pay of $20 per hour, adjusted based on qualifications
• Free bus service for staff from Cambridge, Brookline, Jamaica Plain, West Roxbury, Wayland, Framingham, Natick, Needham, Newton and Wellesley during the summer season
• Access to the JCC Greater Boston fitness center and other campus perks

Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare, and lead age‑appropriate animation and creative activities for campers.
• Ensure the safety and well‑being of campers during all 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 (drop‑off/pick‑up, transitions, lunch, supervision, etc.).

Qualifications

• High school diploma preferred; college degree, certification, or equivalent experience in arts, animation, or media preferred.
• Minimum of one season of camp or similar instructor experience leading drawing, animation, or video projects for children.
• Portfolio or examples of projects preferred.
• Experience in customer service preferred.
• Genuine enjoyment of working with children and helping them grow.
• Passion and expertise in one or more creative disciplines.
• Ability to plan and lead engaging, age‑appropriate, inclusive activities.
• Excellent group‑management, communication, teamwork, and collaboration skills.
• 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 with willingness to seek guidance when needed.
• Self‑starter who takes initiative and builds strong relationships with campers and staff.

Physical Requirements

• Work effectively in a busy, dynamic, and sometimes noisy environment with multiple tasks.
• Operate comfortably in various weather conditions for extended periods (rain, heat, humidity, cold).
• Lift and carry objects weighing 30‑40 pounds.
• Sit, kneel, and get down at eye level with children regularly.

ADA Statement

Individuals must possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for this job or be able to demonstrate that they can perform the essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation and using other combinations of skills and abilities.

Benefits

• Seasonal access to the JCC Greater Boston fitness center.
• Free or discounted enrollment for camp programs may be available for employees’ children (subject to availability).

EEO Statement

JCC Greater Boston is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or disability. We actively encourage applications from women and members of underrepresented groups.