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Part Time - Theatre Arts - Youth Summer Camp Instructor

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Temporary
Hourly
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Compensation

Hourly
Exact $25.00
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Work Schedule

Standard Hours
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Benefits

competitive pay
inclusive work environment
Training opportunities
supportive team culture
Equal opportunity employer

Job Description

Penn State University is a nationally recognized institution known for its commitment to academic excellence, research innovation, and community engagement. As a leading public research university in the United States, Penn State offers diverse opportunities for growth and development across a wide range of disciplines. With multiple campuses and a global reach, Penn State fosters an inclusive environment that supports students, faculty, and staff while promoting a culture of belonging, equity, and respect. The university strongly emphasizes diversity and inclusion and provides resources and support to ensure an accessible and welcoming experience for all community members.

The Youth Summer Theatre Camp Instructor role at Penn State University presents a unique opportunity for individuals passionate about theatre education and working with children. This role involves designing and delivering an engaging curriculum tailored to young performers of all experience levels. The instructor will guide campers through the magic of the stage using techniques in acting, movement, voice, and storytelling. The program focuses on building essential skills such as collaboration, self-expression, and performance confidence, culminating in a celebratory showcase event where campers perform in front of family and friends.

This position is a one-week assignment, running Monday through Friday, and offers a competitive hourly rate of $25, reflecting the university's commitment to valuing skilled educators. The instructor will work in a high-energy, supportive environment where creativity and imagination thrive. Responsibilities include planning age-appropriate instructional activities, leading rehearsals, managing camper behavior in alignment with camp policies, and supporting performance preparation and presentation. The instructor also plays a crucial role in maintaining a safe and inclusive environment, communicating with camp leadership, collaborating with co-instructors and counselors, and assisting with logistical needs such as materials preparation and event setup.

Penn State University requires that this role undergo specific background clearances, including state and federal criminal background checks, to ensure the safety and well-being of all camper participants. The university adheres strictly to its policies on equal employment opportunity and is committed to providing a workplace where all qualified applicants have equal access without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, disability, or veteran status. The role also encourages ongoing professional conduct, training participation, and adherence to camp regulations to maintain the highest standards of educational and recreational programming for youth.

Overall, this position is ideal for individuals with experience working with children in educational or recreational settings who are enthusiastic, patient, and capable of fostering a fun, educational, and supportive atmosphere. The Youth Summer Theatre Camp Instructor will leave a lasting impact by empowering young campers to discover their stage presence and build lifelong skills in theatre and personal development.

Job Requirements

  • background clearance including PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check
  • ability to work Monday through Friday for one week
  • experience working with children in an educational, camp, or recreational setting
  • enthusiastic, patient, and engaging teaching style
  • strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • commitment to inclusivity and accessibility

Job Qualifications

  • experience working with children in an educational, camp, or recreational setting
  • enthusiastic, patient, and engaging teaching style
  • strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • commitment to inclusivity and accessibility

Job Duties

  • design and implement age-appropriate theatre curriculum including acting, movement, voice, improvisation, and basic stagecraft
  • plan engaging daily activities aligned with camp schedule and learning objectives
  • adapt instruction to accommodate different skill levels, learning styles, and abilities
  • lead rehearsals, theatre games, and skill-building exercises
  • maintain a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment at all times
  • supervise campers during all camp activities, including transitions and breaks
  • follow camp policies related to behavior management, safety, and emergency procedures
  • monitor camper well-being and report concerns to camp leadership
  • guide campers in creating scenes, short plays, or a final showcase performance
  • support memorization, character development, and ensemble work
  • encourage confidence, teamwork, and positive stage presence
  • assist with basic blocking and performance flow
  • establish clear expectations and routines
  • use positive behavior support strategies to manage group dynamics
  • foster respect, collaboration, and inclusion among campers
  • communicate effectively with camp leadership regarding curriculum progress and camper needs
  • work collaboratively with co-instructors, counselors, or teaching artists
  • provide age-appropriate feedback and encouragement to campers
  • prepare and manage instructional materials and supplies
  • help maintain organized rehearsal and activity spaces
  • assist with simple costumes, props, and set pieces as needed
  • prepare campers for a final presentation or performance
  • assist with setup, breakdown, and supervision during performances
  • support a positive experience for campers and families during showcases
  • arrive prepared, on time, and ready to engage
  • model professionalism, creativity, and positive behavior
  • represent the camp and organization positively at all times
  • participate in staff training or orientation sessions if applicable
  • support check-in/check-out procedures
  • assist with documentation, attendance, or incident reports

Job Criteria

Experience

Entry Level (1-2 years)


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