After school/Summer camp Program Director

The Pathfinder School in Traverse City, MI, is seeking a dedicated Summer Camp & Extended Day Program Director to lead our well-established summer day camp and extended day (afterschool) program. This full-time, year-round position with a 9:30-5:30 working day M-F. This position plays a key role in providing engaging, enriching, and safe experiences for children ages 3-13, as well as teens in our Junior Camp Counselor Program (ages 14-16).

For decades, The Pathfinder School’s summer camp has been a cherished tradition in the Traverse City area, drawing repeat campers from across the region. Hosted on our beautiful 22-acre campus, the program immerses children in outdoor exploration, utilizing wooded trails, open fields, and a beach for swimming and canoeing on Cedar Lake.

Salary starting from $40,000. Final salary will be determined based on experience and qualifications. and based on experience

Key Responsibilities:Summer Camp Program:

• Program Development & Implementation: Design and oversee a dynamic, place-based summer camp curriculum aligned with The Pathfinder School’s mission.
• Staffing & Supervision: Recruit, hire, train, and manage seasonal camp staff, ensuring a high standard of program delivery and child engagement.
• Camper Experience & Safety: Ensure a safe, supportive, and engaging environment for campers, with a focus on outdoor exploration and creative learning.
• Logistics & Operations: Manage daily camp logistics, including scheduling, supply procurement, and adherence to safety guidelines.
• Parent & Community Engagement: Communicate with families about camp programs, policies, and individual camper needs.
• Marketing & Enrollment: Collaborate with the school’s marketing team to promote summer camp, manage enrollment, and maintain accurate records.

Extended Day (Afterschool Program):

• Program Oversight: Manage all aspects of the extended day program, ensuring a structured, engaging, and safe after-school experience for Pre-K through 8th-grade students.
• Licensing Compliance: Ensure that the program meets all state licensing requirements, including health, safety, and operational standards.
• Staffing & Training: Hire, train, and supervise afterschool program staff, providing guidance on child supervision, enrichment activities, and behavior management.
• Supply Management: Oversee purchasing and organization of program supplies and materials, including snacks and drinks.
• Parent Communication: Serve as the primary contact for parents regarding extended day programming, addressing concerns, sharing updates, and ensuring positive family engagement.
• Coordination with School Faculty: Work closely with classroom teachers and administrators to align extended day activities with school goals and student needs.

Qualifications:

• Experience in summer camp leadership, afterschool programming, or youth program management.
• Knowledge of state licensing requirements for child care programs.
• Strong leadership and organizational skills, with experience hiring and managing staff.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to foster relationships with children, families, and staff.
• Passion for outdoor education, place-based learning, and student engagement.

This role is an exciting opportunity to lead two essential programs that provide meaningful, enriching experiences for children at The Pathfinder School.

Applications will be accepted until April 7 or until the position is filled.

Job Types: Full-time, Seasonal

Pay: From $40,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Schedule:

• After school
• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

Salary : $40,000