Summer Camp- Makers' Space Specialist

Makers’ Space Specialist

Westtown School Summer Camp is seeking enthusiastic applicants for the position of Makers’ Space Specialists to work from June 8 - August 7, 2026. The Makers’ Space Specialist will foster creativity, innovation, and hands-on learning in our campers. The Makers’ Space Specialist will be responsible for planning and implementing engaging maker-centric activities, guiding campers through various projects, and creating an inclusive and inspiring environment within our Makers' Space. Applicants should be at least 18 years of age or older. The regular hours will be 8:30 am to 4:15 pm.

Westtown School Summer Camp is a traditional day camp program serving children ages 4 to 14, located on Westtown School’s 600+ acre campus near West Chester, PA. At Westtown School Summer Camp, discovery and education await every child in a creative, supportive, and inclusive environment rooted in the school’s outdoor education traditions.  Camp staff members lead campers in a wide variety of action-based educational projects each day. Our camp programs reflect the highest standards of respect, inclusion, and cooperation between counselors and campers.

Essential Responsibilities

• Design and develop a diverse range of age-appropriate maker activities and projects for campers ages 4 to 14;

• Create a curriculum that aligns with the camp's overall theme and goals;

• Camp is separated into two-week sessions, the Makers’ Space Specialist is responsible for writing, preparing for, and teaching four lessons per session to each group (two lessons per week);

• Lesson plans also may differ based on age division and skill level, meaning you may be planning up to twelve projects per two-week session

• The Makers’ Space Specialist is encouraged to tackle this challenge as they see fit, so long as the campers are having fun and learning.

• Lessons should have enough variety so campers who attend the whole summer won’t repeat too many activities. In the past, camp favorites like pet rocks have been a welcome repeat project.

• Adapt activities to cater to different age groups and skill levels, sometimes at the last minute;

• Teach lessons, ranging from thirty minutes to an hour depending on group size and ability;

• Provide clear and concise instructions to campers, focusing on effort instead of outcome.

• Finding or making visual guides and educational materials is encouraged.

You will have access to a variety of books, whiteboards, and a projector to use as teaching aids.

• Encourage campers to participate however they are comfortable, and adapt to the needs of the group dynamic.

• Foster a positive and collaborative atmosphere that encourages experimentation

• Manage and organize the Makers' Space materials, tools, and equipment. Provide Camp administration with supply lists and other support needs in a timely manner;

• Ensure the availability and functionality of necessary resources for scheduled activities.
• Demonstrate to campers how to maintain a studio space, as the Makers’ Space is a classroom that needs to be respected;

• Sometimes, parts of the group will read and play quietly in the library as you teach. The Makers’ Space Specialist, along with other camp staff, is responsible for facilitating camper clean-up of the library and use of the space according to our librarian’s wishes;

• Enforce safety protocols and guidelines within the Makers' Space and camp in general.

Supervise campers to ensure proper use of tools and equipment, and request another set of hands or eyes when necessary;

• Be vigilant for potential hazards and address any safety concerns promptly.

• Administer first aid when necessary.

• Collaborate with camp counselors and other specialists to integrate maker activities into camp programs such as Fun Friday.

• Teach counselors how to help campers achieve their goals in the Makers’ Space.

• Engage with campers and their families, providing updates on Makers' Space activities and accomplishments;

• Make an effort to truly get to know campers, keeping in mind the power of a communal creative space.

• Attend staff meetings and actively contribute to the camp community.

Qualifications:

• Previous experience in a similar role or a background in education, STEM, arts, or a related field

• Familiarity with a variety of maker disciplines, crafts, and material knowledge

• Strong organizational and communication skills

• Confident teaching to groups of children ranging from 4 to 14

• Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse team and adapt to changing camp dynamics

• Willingness to learn and pursue growth in areas that are outside of your comfort zone

• Experience working with children and a demonstrated understanding of childhood development and common behavioral hurdles

• First Aid and CPR certification (or willingness to obtain)

If you're passionate about inspiring creativity, and innovation, and have a love for learning in a camp setting, we invite you to apply for the Makers' Space Specialist position at Westtown Summer Camp. Join us in creating memorable and impactful experiences for our campers!

For additional information about Westtown School and to explore current career opportunities, please visit our website westtown.edu/careers [https://www.westtown.edu/about/employment/]. Interested applicants can apply online by submitting their resume directly to the specific job posting on the summer camp employment portal [https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=a000e3a1-b58f-4479-a97a-7b41277dd466&ccId=9200690988956_2&lang=en_US].