Drama Instructor, Camp Kaleidoscope, Summer Day Camp

Job Overview

Share your love of performing arts, drama, theater and improv by teaching drama classes for children entering grades K-3 this summer at Camp Kaleidoscope, a JCC summer day camp in Newton. Camp Counselors and activity specialists guide campers in drama, art, science, sports, swimming and much more as they develop and build self‑confidence. The energy of the camp is lively, playful and warm, as both campers and staff develop lifelong friendships.

• Spark camper creativity by leading games and contributing to a colorful and vibrant camp culture.
• Lead hands‑on art activities and help campers explore acting, drama, improv, and more.
• Work with counselors to lead two camper performances.
• Help with transitions, support special events, and ensure campers feel included and connected.

• Plan, prepare, and lead age‑appropriate activities in your 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 (drop‑off/pick‑up, transitions, lunch, supervision, etc.).

• Actively create a welcoming dynamic that contributes to an environment where each individual is valued and respected.
• Actively participate as an essential team member.
• Support JCC Greater Boston’s mission, vision, and values of belonging, joyfulness, collaboration, and transformation, including through role modeling.
• Enthusiastically represent the organization, model excellence and achievement.
• Attend JCCGB meetings and trainings as assigned.
• Other duties as assigned.

This is an hourly position with a daily schedule of 8:30 am – 4:30 pm, Monday – Friday. Competitive starting pay rate of $20 per hour (final rate based on qualifications, experience, and JCC internal equity). The 8‑week camp program is June 22 – August 21, including staff training. Availability all summer preferred, but flexible scheduling can be accommodated.

Benefits include JCC Health & Fitness center access, a supportive in‑person work environment, and free bus service for staff from Cambridge, Brookline, Jamaica Plain, West Roxbury, Wayland, Framingham, Natick, Needham, Newton, and Wellesley during the summer season.

• Work well in a busy, dynamic, and sometimes noisy environment involving multiple tasks and priorities.
• Work in a variety of weather conditions for extended periods (rain, heat, humidity, cold, etc.) to ensure supervision and safety of campers.
• Lift and carry objects weighing 30–40 pounds (boxes of supplies, children’s backpacks, etc.).
• Sit, kneel, and get down at eye level with children regularly.

• Use of the Fitness Center at Leventhal‑Sidman JCC during active seasonal employment.
• Free or discounted enrollment for camp programs may be available for camp employees’ children based on availability.
• Free swim.
• Leadership opportunities.
• Bonding with the campers and co‑counselors.
• Other perks including access to JCC Greater Boston’s top‑class fitness, recreation and wellness facility in Newton.

• High school degree preferred.
• College degree, concentration or equivalent experience in performing arts related field preferred.
• 1+ season (summer camp, semester, other) instructor experience planning and leading performing arts activities for children.
• Customer service experience preferred.
• Equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted at the JCC’s discretion to meet minimum criteria.

• 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…