What are the responsibilities and job description for the Resident Camp Director: Camp Thunderbird position at Observer Fresh Air Camp Inc?
The Resident Camp Director is responsible for the daily planning, coordination, and execution of the YMCA’s resident camp program. This role ensures high-quality camper experiences through effective staff leadership, schedule management, program delivery, and camper care. Working under the leadership of the Camp Executive Director, the Resident Camp Director supports a safe, engaging, and mission-aligned camp environment.
Culture Statement
The culture of the Y is rooted in our Christian mission and core values. We strive every day to collectively embody our purpose of serving as a catalyst to transform lives and communities through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. We are respectful – we treat each other and those we serve as we hope to be treated ourselves. We are caring – we show a sincere concern for others and their well-being. We are honest – we are truthful in what we say and what we do, and we do not make promises we do not intend to keep. We are responsible – we are good stewards of our resources, strive for excellence and our actions are accountable to those we serve. We are innovative – we harness creativity, are solution minded and forward thinking. We lead with faith.
Essential Functions
- Plan, coordinate, and oversee all aspects of the resident camp program schedule,
- Collaborate with marketing and financial development teams to support camper
- Track and achieve annual performance metrics for camp attendance, satisfaction, and
- Supervise full-time resident camp staff and provide guidance on seasonal hiring,
- Support and coach seasonal staff to deliver high-quality, safe, and inclusive programming through training and daily check-ins.
- Lead efforts in camper behavior management and wellness support, working with
- Communicate proactively with parents/guardians to ensure transparency, address
- Oversee daily camp operations to ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with YMCA and ACA standards, responding to incidents as needed.
- Collect and analyze camper, staff, and parent feedback to evaluate program impact and recommend improvements.
- Maintain and manage program supply inventory, ensuring all materials are prepared for activities and events throughout the season.
Performs other duties and tasks as assigned by leadership
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in Recreation, Youth Development, Education, or significant work experience that demonstrates comparable proficiency to support the role.
- Minimum of 6 years of experience working in a residential camp or similar youth setting, with demonstrated leadership in program delivery.
- Strong ability to lead, supervise, and mentor full time and seasonal staff.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, especially with children, parents, and peers.
- Knowledge of youth development, behavior management, and inclusive programming practices.
- Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to adapt in a fast-paced camp environment.
- Comfortable managing multiple priorities while maintaining a positive, solutions-focused attitude.
- Familiarity with ACA standards and commitment to safety and best practices.
- Proficient in basic technology platforms (Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, or similar tools).
- Passion for the YMCA mission and working with youth in an outdoor, team-based setting.
All YMCA team members are expected to maintain a current and active status for all safety, risk, and programming certifications defined by the YMCA of Greater Charlotte.
Working Conditions
- Ability to work in excess of a 40-hour week with irregular work hours.
- Ability to walk, stand, and sit (including on the floor) for long periods of time.
- Must be able to lift and/or assist children up to 50 pounds in weight.
- Must be able to lift and carry food and supplies weighing up to 20 pounds.
- Ability to stand or sit while maintaining alertness for several hours at a time.
- Position may require bending, leaning, kneeling, and walking.
- Ability to speak concisely and effectively communicate to groups.
- Visual and auditory ability to respond to critical situations and physical ability to act swiftly in an emergency.
Competencies
- INCLUSION: Values all people for their unique talents, and takes an active role in promoting practices that support diversity, inclusion, and global work, as well as cultural competence
- DEVELOPING SELF & OTHERS: Develops self and supports others (e.g., staff, volunteers, members, program participants), both formally and informally, to achieve their highest potential
- CRITICAL THINKING & DECISION MAKING: Makes informed decisions based on logic, data, and sound judgment
- ENGAGING COMMUNITY: Builds bridges with others in the community to ensure the Y’s work is community-focused and welcoming of all, providing community benefit
To learn more about our Y-USA Leadership Competencies, please click here: https://info.ymcacharlotte.org/hubfs/MEME9737 2024 YUSA Cause-
Driven Leadership Competency Model-3.pdf
