Camp Director — Growth, Safety, and Engagement

Surprise Lake Camp; Village of Cold Spring (NY); Hybrid; USD 135,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Surprise Lake Camp in Cold Spring, NY is seeking an experienced Camp Director to lead our year-round and summer programs. The role is primarily remote from September to May, with on-site living during the summer season.

You will travel for staff recruitment, professional development, and outreach events, guiding operations and safety while upholding Jewish camp traditions. The Director reports to the Executive Director, supervises year-round and seasonal staff, manages budgets, and represents

Qualifications

• This role requires 3-5 years of leadership experience in overnight camping or related fields.
• Proven success leading teams and complex operations.
• Strong track record in recruiting campers and staff.
• Understanding of Jewish culture.
• Proficiency with standard office software and online platforms; ability to learn new systems.
• Experience in public speaking and salesmanship.
• Ability to work long camp hours in season.
• Experience navigating growth, change, or organizational transformation.

Responsibilities

• Drive enrollment growth and develop robust camper recruitment plans.
• Oversee day-to-day operations, safety, and program performance.
• Oversee safety reviews, plans, and compliance.
• Foster program innovation and operational excellence.
• Develop and oversee customer service plans.
• Year-round staff supervision, including hiring and staff development.
• Budget responsibility for summer programs and staffing.
• Plan and oversee staff training and orientations.
• Lead engagement initiatives (Get Your Feet Wet, family weekends, reunions).
• Attend board/committee meetings and support donor engagement.
• Represent the camp with health dept and accreditation bodies.

Skills

Leadership experience

Recruiting

Public speaking

Salesmanship

Team leadership

Change management

Tools

Office software

Online media platforms

Job description

Surprise Lake Camp in Cold Spring, NY is seeking an experienced Camp Director to lead our year-round and summer programs. The role is primarily remote from September to May, with on-site living during the summer season.

You will travel for staff recruitment, professional development, and outreach events, guiding operations and safety while upholding Jewish camp traditions. The Director reports to the Executive Director, supervises year-round and seasonal staff, manages budgets, and represents