Summer Camp Director at Amesbury Public Schools

Wayne State University; Amesbury (MA); Hybrid; USD 28,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

Wayne State University seeks a Program Director to manage a 7‑week summer youth park program at Amesbury Town Park. You will lead daily operations, ensure safety, and create an engaging environment for youth, while supervising staff and coordinating events.

The role requires 2+ years supervising youth in recreation, a high school diploma (Bachelor’s preferred), and CPR/First Aid certification. CORI/SORI background checks are required.

Qualifications

• Must supervise groups of children in a recreational or educational setting.
• 2+ years’ experience in staff supervision is preferred.
• Current First Aid and CPR certification (or ability to obtain).
• CORI/SORI background check required.
• Ability to lead and coordinate a 7‑week summer program outdoors.

Responsibilities

• Plan, supervise, and lead all daily program operations.
• Create a fun, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate experience.
• Enforce safety protocols and manage emergencies.
• Coordinate staff orientation and weekly meetings.
• Supervise, train, and evaluate staff and CITs.
• Submit bi-weekly payroll and draft end‑of‑season report.

Skills

Leadership

Organizational Skills

Communication

Calm Under Pressure

Adaptability

Education

High school diploma required; Bachelor’s degree preferred

Job description

The Program Director manages and coordinates the day to day operation of the 7 week summer youth park program and is responsible for ensuring the program is running smoothly, the children are having fun and the environment is safe.

• Plan, supervise, and lead all aspects of daily program operations
• Create a fun, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate experience for youth participants
• Implement behavior management strategies and support staff in addressing behavioral challenges
• Collaborate with the Assistant Director to manage disciplinary actions involving both participants and staff
• Ensure safe and efficient drop-off and dismissal procedures
• Enforce all safety protocols and emergency procedures to protect participants and staff
• Oversee the proper use and maintenance of equipment and facilities; report any issues promptly
• Coordinate special events, including theme days, in-house entertainment, and field trips
• Assist in planning and leading staff orientation and weekly staff meetings
• Supervise, train, and evaluate program staff and Counselors-in-Training (CITs)
• Develop and manage staff schedules, including early start and extended day coverage
• Process and submit bi-weekly payroll for program staff
• Prepare an end-of-season report with evaluations and recommendations for future programming

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must be at least 21 years of age
• High school diploma required; Bachelor’s degree preferred
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience supervising groups of children in a recreational or educational setting
• Prior experience supervising staff strongly preferred
• Current First Aid and CPR certification (or ability to obtain prior to program start and maintain throughout employment)
• CORI/SORI background check required

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong leadership and organizational skills
• Energetic, self-motivated, and able to manage multiple responsibilities effectively
• Experience working with children and a genuine enthusiasm for youth development
• Excellent communication skills with children, parents, and staff
• Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions in high-pressure or emergency situations
• Strong group management skills, including maintaining staff-to-child ratios, conducting headcounts, and resolving conflicts constructively
• Ability to adapt to changing schedules and program needs

Work Environment and Physical Requirements:

• Primarily an outdoor setting at Amesbury Town Park
• Active role requiring consistent supervision, movement, and engagement with participants and staff
• Must be able to stand for several hours at a time. Must be able to handle varying levels of noise and activities. Standing, walking, bending, crouching, seeing, hearing, talking, carrying, climbing, and the ability to lift 50 lbs. is required.