Summer Camp Lead Teacher (English-Speaking, Knowledgeable in Japanese アニメ & 漫画)

Aozora Summer Camp 2026 is seeking fun, responsible, and caring Camp Lead Teachers who are passionate about early childhood education and open to working in a Japanese cultural- and language-rich environment. This summer’s camp theme is Japanese Anime and Manga, and we are looking for educators who are genuinely enthusiastic about this world—its stories, characters, art styles, and cultural influence—and who can thoughtfully translate that passion into meaningful, age-appropriate experiences for children ages 5–8. As a Camp Lead Teacher, you will be responsible for creating a nurturing, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment, as well as developing and leading exciting, meaningful activities for campers. While Japanese language proficiency is not required, this role involves supporting a program rooted in Japanese culture and collaborating with bilingual staff in a Japanese–English environment.

In this position, you will work closely with the Camp Directors to help deliver a fun and immersive Japanese cultural experience for campers. You will collaborate with fellow teachers, counselors, and administrators to ensure a safe, supportive, and well-organized camp environment

. Compensation:

• Weekly pay: $1,300–$1,500 (5-day workweek)
• $17 per hour for all mandatory training sessions, as required by NYS law

Schedule:

• Work Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. (Classroom hours: 8:30a.m – 3:00 p.m.)

Camp Dates

• July 6 – August 21, 2026
• Must be available to work a minimum of two consecutive weeks during the 7-week camp session.

Mandatory Paid Training
All required training must be completed prior to the start of camp.

• Health & Safety Training: 2 hours
• Mandatory training (16–20 hours): July 1–2, 2026
• In-class Observation & Training: 6–10 hours (must be completed between May 18, 2026 and June 18, 2026)

In-class Observation & Training availability:

• Monday–Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., or
• Saturday between 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

Requirements and Qualifications:

Required

• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Prior experience as a Summer Camp Lead Teacher or in a teaching role
• Minimum 2 years of teaching elementary students in a classroom setting.
• Strong English communication skills (speaking, reading, and writing)
• Knowledge and passion about Japanese Anime and Manga
• Comfortable working in a Japanese-language and culturally immersive environment
• Interest in Japanese culture, with a willingness to learn and use basic Japanese phrases
• Basic computer proficiency (email, scheduling, documentation)
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate in a team-oriented environment
• Ability to serve as a positive role model and mentor for children
• Must be able to pass all required background checks and clearances in accordance with New York State laws and regulations
• Legal authorization to work in the United States

Preferred

• Two or more years of relevant teaching or Summer Camp Lead Teacher experience
• Bachelor’s degree in Education or a related field.
• Prior experience living in Japan or strong familiarity with Japanese culture

Responsibilities:

• Plan and implement culturally and developmentally appropriate activities based on weekly themes
• Establish consistent routines and provide positive guidance for campers
• Lead and support a variety of educational and recreational activities
• Ensure camper safety and provide active supervision at all times
• Maintain classroom materials and coordinate necessary supplies
• Supervise campers during meals and snack times
• Teach daily routines, including cleanup and transitions
• Implement positive behavior guidance strategies as needed
• Communicate clearly and effectively with children at their developmental level
• Provide toileting support when necessary
• Assist with serving nutritious snacks and lunches
• Provide appropriate rest and quiet time opportunities
• Perform administrative tasks (e.g., filing, record keeping) as needed
• Plan and chaperone field trips when required
• Follow all safety, health, and emergency procedures

To Apply: Please email a cover letter outlining your interest and qualifications, along with your resume, to [email protected] . Include “Summer Camp Lead Teacher (English-Speaking)” in the subject line.
Aozora Community is an equal opportunity employer.

Job Types: Part-time, Contract, Temporary

Pay: $34.00 - $40.00 per hour

Expected hours: 37.5 – 40.0 per week

Benefits:

• Employee discount

Education:

• Bachelor's (Preferred)

Experience:

• f teaching elementary students in a classroom setting: 2 years (Required)

Language:

• English (Required)
• Japanese fluently (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Brooklyn, NY 11238 (Required)

Work Location: In person