Day Camp Director
Position Summary
The Day Camp Director plays a key leadership role in creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering camp experience for all Girl Scouts. Working closely with the Director of Outdoor Program and/or Manager of Summer Camps, the Camp Director is responsible for staff recruitment, pre-camp planning and training, day-to-day camp operations, and program delivery that align with the Girl Scout Mission and core values.
Day Camp Directors at Camp An-Se-Ox, Camp Aspetuck, and Camp Merrie-Wood will work part-time (up to 8 hours per week) through May 31, 2026. The Day Camp Director at Camp Clatter Valley will work part-time (up to 8 hours per week) through June 27, 2026. All Day Camp Directors transition to full-time seasonal employment beginning June 1, 2025 (June 28th for Clatter Valley) through the Saturday following the final day of camp programming.
Essential Responsibilities
Leadership & Management
- Provide overall leadership and direction for the day camp program, ensuring alignment with Girl Scout principles and ACA standards.
- Supervise and evaluate key leadership staff including the Assistant Camp Director, Program Director, Camper Leadership Specialist, Aquatics Director, Director of First Aid, and Camp Administrative Assistant.
- Maintain a visible, active presence throughout camp operations.
- Establish and communicate performance expectations for all staff; conduct evaluations and provide rehire recommendations.
- Foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative camp culture focused on respect, growth, and enthusiasm.
Pre-Camp Planning & Training
- Collaborate with the Director of Outdoor Program and/or Manager of Summer Camps to develop comprehensive pre-camp training that includes all required topics.
- Attend regular meetings and training sessions for Camp Directors (virtual and in-person).
- Assist with recruiting, interviewing, reference checks, and onboarding seasonal staff following GSofCT procedures.
- Support pre-camp administrative preparation including licensing materials, confirmation information, staff manuals, and required forms.
- Actively assist with camp promotion and recruitment through open houses, fairs, and informational sessions.
Program Oversight
- Plan, develop, and implement engaging, girl-led camp programs in collaboration with the Assistant Camp Director.
- Ensure programs meet safety standards, are inclusive, and address the needs and interests of campers.
- Schedule staff and program areas efficiently to ensure smooth daily operations.
- Conduct weekly camper advisory meetings to assess and respond to camper needs.
Health, Safety, and Compliance
- Ensure compliance with Connecticut State Licensing requirements, ACA standards, and Girl Scouts Safety Activity Checkpoints.
- Maintain a safe and healthy environment for campers and staff, including managing emergency procedures and conducting regular drills.
- Report incidents within 24 hours per State and GSOFCT guidelines and follow up promptly.
- Monitor and uphold professional boundaries between staff and campers.
- Maintain clear communication with parents/guardians regarding camper concerns and notify the Manager of Summer Camps of significant issues.
Operations & Administration
- Manage camp budgets responsibly, ensuring fiscal accountability for assigned line items (salaries, supplies, training, etc.).
- Oversee purchasing, inventory, and reconciliation of camp materials.
- Maintain accurate records including attendance, payroll, evaluations, and incident documentation.
- Coordinate with transportation providers to ensure safe daily camper pick-up/drop-off and communicate any service disruptions.
- Submit work orders and collaborate with property staff to maintain camp facilities.
- Participate in pre- and post-season walkthroughs and complete end-of-season reports, inventories, and evaluations.
Other Duties
- Assist with opening and closing camp procedures.
- Provide ongoing staff development and in-service trainings during the summer.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Must be at least 21 years of age.
- Bachelor’s degree preferred.
- Minimum of two seasons of camp experience, with demonstrated leadership responsibilities.
- Eligible to qualify as a Youth Camp Director per Connecticut State regulations.
- 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).
- Demonstrated ability to manage youth programs, supervise staff, and uphold safety standards.
- Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
- Commitment to the Girl Scout Mission and experiential outdoor education.
- 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.