Youth Program Director

Inspiring Growth, Adventure, and Resilience: Lead Transformative Youth Development Programs at YMCA Camp Duncan!

The Youth Program Director will design, execute, and continuously refine dynamic, age-appropriate day camp programs—including specialized adventure, challenge, and high ropes activities—that promote physical, social, and emotional development while integrating YMCA values and aligning with overall camp goals. This role is dedicated to promoting the holistic health and well-being of children by delivering transformative outdoor experiences that inspire exploration, build resilience, and foster a lifelong connection with nature. Leverage participant feedback and emerging best practices for sustained growth and effectiveness, while also supporting year-round school age programming on and offsite, as well as other Camp Duncan program operations as needed.

Salary starts at $44,000 per year, includes full-time benefits, and on-site housing provided

• We offer salaries that reflect your skills, experience, and the value you bring to our team. 
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans for eligible employees, along with access to wellness programs, mental health resources, and a family gym membership. 
• Generous paid time off (PTO), including paid holidays. We also offer flexible work hours to help you balance your personal and professional life. 
• 403(b) plan with company contributions after 2 years of service to help you plan for your future. 
• Opportunities for continuous learning through workshops and training programs. 
• A supportive work environment that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels welcome and respected. 
• Discounts on programs, employee assistance programs, and company-sponsored events. 

Scope of Responsibilities

Staff Leadership & Collaboration

• Recruit, hire, train, and supervise a diverse team of full-time, part-time, and seasonal day camp counselors, instructors, and support staff, providing ongoing coaching, performance feedback, and professional development opportunities
• Foster a positive, collaborative culture by working closely with fellow staff and the Regional Director of Enrichment and Camp, VP, School-Aged and Camp Executive Director to enhance all aspects of day camp programming

Operational & Safety Management

• Manage day-to-day day camp operations to ensure seamless program delivery by coordinating scheduling, resource allocation, and logistics, while developing and enforcing robust safety protocols, emergency procedures, and risk management strategies
• Collaborate with the Food Service Manager to ensure efficient food service delivery, maintain accurate records, and uphold proper equipment care

Financial Management & Marketing

• Manage program budgets to ensure responsible use of financial resources and achievement of revenue goals by monitoring expenditures and controlling expenses in alignment with YMCA strategic objectives
• Drive marketing efforts through targeted outreach, effective communication, and the dissemination of camp literature to engage potential families and user groups

Stakeholder Engagement & Communication

• Serve as the primary liaison among campers, families, staff, and YMCA administration by effectively communicating program goals, updates, and performance outcomes through regular reports and meetings
• Promptly address and resolve any issues or concerns raised by parents or participants in a professional manner

Quality Assurance & Continuous Improvement

• Implement robust evaluation tools to measure program effectiveness and participant satisfaction, analyze data and feedback to continuously refine day camp experiences
• Stay informed of industry trends and innovative practices to ensure that the camp’s offerings remain competitive and relevant

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure strict adherence to YMCA policies, local regulations, applicable external accreditations, and best practices in safety and quality by regularly reviewing and updating procedures
• Maintain a secure and supportive camp environment
• Lead comprehensive training sessions on safety, emergency preparedness, and ethical conduct for all camp personnel

Day Camp Experience & Facility Operations

• Act as the day camp experience facilitator by delivering a high-quality, engaging environments for all campers during operating hours
• Uphold camp procedures, policies, and public relations standard
• Ensure that all facility operations contribute to an exceptional and welcoming day camp environment.

Minimum and Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and/or equivalent experience in day or overnight camps.
• Prior training and experience in high ropes courses and adventure/challenge programs is preferred but not required.
• Prior experience as a lifeguard preferred but not required.
• Willing to work a flexible schedule to include nights and weekends.
• Strong customer service orientation with the ability to relate well with a diverse set of youth, parents, and staff. Demonstrates safe and age-appropriate strategies in interactions with youth. 
• Strong verbal, written and presentation skills with the ability to effectively lead trainings
• Ability to organize and prioritize multiple, competing priorities to maximize personal and team effectiveness.
• Valid driver’s license with clear driving record and the ability to meet necessary requirements to drive a YMCA vehicle 
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively build and maintain relationships with stakeholders and constituents. 
• Ability to meet physical requirements of the job description. The YMCA will make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities.

Child Abuse Prevention - Support the YMCA’s commitment to child abuse prevention by:

• Reporting any items that may provide a health or safety hazard to staff, members or guests to your supervisor
• Following all policies and procedures related to keeping children safe in our facilities and programs, including those related to the monitoring and supervision of children
• Reporting any suspicious behavior and violation of policy and procedures to your supervisor
• Completing all child abuse prevention training, as required 

Salary : $44,000