Outdoor Adventure Day Camp - Director

Ymcabuffaloniagara; Town of Niskayuna (NY); On-site; USD 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in youth development seeks a Day Camp Director to lead summer programs. This role involves planning and organizing activities, supervising staff, and ensuring the safety and enjoyment of campers. With a focus on leadership and communication, you will create a positive environment that fosters growth and fun. Join a vibrant team dedicated to making a difference in children's lives while enjoying benefits like a complimentary membership and professional development opportunities. If you're passionate about outdoor adventures and youth engagement, this is the perfect opportunity for you!

Benefits

Complimentary YMCA Membership

Discounted Program Fees

Paid Sick Leave

Training and Leadership Development

Fun Work Environment

Qualifications

• Knowledge of camping and group work is essential.
• Experience in program administration and staff supervision is required.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily camp operations and ensure camper safety.
• Plan and implement camp activities while managing staff.

Skills

Leadership Skills

Communication Skills

Organizational Skills

Problem-Solving Skills

Education

Experience in Camping or Recreation

CPR Certification

Advanced First Aid Certification

Job description

Tuesday, March 4, 2025

YMCA Buffalo Niagara operates Outdoor Adventure Day Camps.Camp activities include swimming, nature study, hiking, archery, gaga pit games, arts & crafts, and more.

When applying for this job, you will be directed to select the location(s) you are able to work at:

• YMCA Camp Eggert in Orchard Park
• YMCA Camp Kenan in Barker (bus transportation from Lockport is available)
• YMCA Camp Tahigwa in Corfu (bus transportation from locations in Williamsville and Lancaster is available)

YMCA Buffalo Niagara is an equal opportunity employer committed to valuing diversity and practicing inclusion.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Day Camp Director is responsible for the successful operation of the summer day camp program.Plans, organizes, and implements activities, provides direction, supervision, and support to day camp staff, performs administrative tasks, and ensures the safety of campers. This is a seasonal summer position.

GENERAL WORK SCHEDULE:

Camp employees are scheduled to work Monday – Friday, up to 40 hours per week.Must be available to work between the hours of 7:00 am and 6:00 pm.

BENEFITS:

Complimentary YMCA Buffalo Niagara membership, discounted program fees, paid sick leave, training and leadership development opportunities, and a fun work environment.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Plans and implements camp activities as per the program design.
• Trains, supervises, directs, and evaluates program staff. Participates in the selection process to identify the best camp staff. Manages the staff schedule to ensure staff-to-child ratios are met.
• Provides daily oversight and leadership of camp operations. Identifies and solves problems, implements appropriate discipline techniques, and enforces policies and procedures.
• Plans and facilitates components of the pre-camp staff training program.
• Ensures effective communication between staff and parents of campers.
• Develops and maintains positive, open communication between campers and camp staff.
• Implements and maintains work rules and regulations as required by YMCA Buffalo Niagara, the NYS Department of Health and other regulatory agencies.
• Pursues new and innovative program initiatives.
• Provides for and organizes equipment and supplies for camp activities.
• Follows and enforces department protocol to clean and disinfect commonly used surfaces. Ensures PPE compliance.
• Maintains the cleanliness and organization of program/work areas.
• Participates with campers when needed, including in the pool during swim lessons and free swim.
• Oversees and performs administrative functions including attendance, camper development, program planning, and evaluation.
• Schedules, plans, and carries out regular staff meetings.
• Implements ongoing safety checks to assure a healthy and safe camp environment. Implements emergency procedures when necessary.
• Completes additional duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must have knowledge of and previous work experience in camping, group work, recreation and related fields.
• Experience in program administration and staff supervision.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Have and maintain community CPR certification. (American Red Cross, ASHI, American Heart Association)
• Responding to Emergencies or Advanced First Aid certification is preferred and may be required before the start of camp programs. (American Red Cross, ASHI, American Heart Association)