Youth Program Director

Job Description

YMCA Camp Duncan located in Volo, IL is now hiring a Youth Program Director!

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

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.

Essential Functions

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.

Required Certifications

• Bachelor’s Degree
• Valid driver’s license with clear driving record and the ability to meet necessary requirements to drive a YMCA vehicle
• 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.

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