Day Camp Assistant Director

Oxford, CT

Position Summary

The Day Camp Assistant Director supports the Camp Director and Administrative Team in planning, coordinating, and implementing all aspects of day camp operations. This role ensures the smooth daily running of camp by supervising unit staff, maintaining camper safety and engagement, and upholding Girl Scouts of Connecticut’s standards for program quality, inclusivity, and fun.

The Assistant Director plays a vital leadership role in fostering a positive camp culture and serves as Acting Camp Director in the Camp Director’s absence. This position supports program design, staff development, and problem-solving throughout the camp season.

Essential Responsibilities

Leadership & Supervision

  • Provide strong leadership to unit staff, including Unit Leaders and Counselors, promoting teamwork, professionalism, and enthusiasm.
  • Serve as Acting Camp Director during the Director’s absence, assuming full responsibility for staff supervision, camper safety, and daily operations.
  • Maintain a visible and supportive presence across camp activities, modeling positive behavior and camp spirit.
  • Conduct regular staff meetings, performance conferences, and evaluations to ensure effective communication and continuous improvement.
  • Foster a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive environment for campers and staff, aligned with the Girl Scout Mission and camp philosophy.

Program Management

  • Collaborate with the Camp Director, Program Director, and Area Specialists to plan and deliver engaging, age-appropriate, girl-led programming.
  • Oversee the creation of daily and weekly schedules for units, ensuring safety, creativity, and alignment with program goals.
  • Support staff in adapting activities for different learning styles and camper needs.
  • Participate in and help coordinate camp wide events, ceremonies, meals, and activities to promote unity and camp culture.

Health, Safety, and Compliance

  • Maintain high standards of camper and staff safety in accordance with Connecticut State Licensing, ACA standards, and Girl Scout Safety Activity Checkpoints.
  • Implement emergency procedures and assist in drills, ensuring all staff understand their roles in crisis situations.
  • Support the Director of First Aid in monitoring camper and staff health, reporting any concerns promptly.
  • Complete and file incident reports and behavioral documentation within required timeframes.
  • Address behavioral issues calmly and professionally, coaching staff on positive discipline and conflict resolution techniques.

Operations & Administration

  • Assist the Camp Director with pre-camp setup, staff training, and overall operational planning.
  • Help develop and adjust camp routines, schedules, and staffing assignments to ensure ratios and safety standards are met.
  • Monitor staff performance and provide coaching or corrective feedback as needed.
  • Communicate regularly with the Camp Director about staff performance, camper needs, and operational challenges.
  • Support inventory management and report facility or equipment needs promptly.
  • Participate in opening and closing procedures, including camp setup, clean-up, and end-of-season evaluations.

Communication & Community Relations

  • Maintain positive communication with parents, visitors, and the public, reflecting the values and professionalism of Girl Scouts of Connecticut.
  • Support open communication channels between staff, campers, and administration.
  • Promote positive morale, inclusivity, and respect throughout the camp community.

Other Duties

  • Assist the Camp Director in planning and delivering ongoing in-service training during the camp season.
  • Participate in all required meetings, trainings, and campwide events.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned to support the success of the camp.

Qualifications

  • Must be at least 21 years of age.
  • Bachelor’s degree preferred.
  • Minimum of two seasons of camp experience with demonstrated supervisory responsibilities.
  • Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
  • Current certifications in Adult and Child First Aid/CPR/AED and Medication Administration (or willingness to obtain upon hire).
  • Ability to qualify under Connecticut Youth Camp licensing standards.
  • Strong leadership, organization, and communication skills.
  • Commitment to the Girl Scout Mission, outdoor education, and youth development.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage youth and staff in a camp setting.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace preferred.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to communicate effectively and model appropriate behavior.
  • Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to environmental and behavioral cues.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to perform first aid and respond calmly in emergencies.