Camp & Youth Program Director - Full Time Year Round

Camp & Youth Program Director
Lakeland Hills Family YMCA
Full-Time | Year-Round

Location: Mountain Lakes, NJ
Reports To: Vice President, Childcare & Youth Services

Position Overview

The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA is seeking an experienced and passionate Camp & Youth Program Director to lead our dynamic Summer Day Camp and year-round youth programming.

This role is responsible for the overall leadership, development, and daily operations of camp and youth programs, including Kids Club, sports leagues, Esports, and leadership development programs. The ideal candidate is a strong leader who is committed to youth development, safety, innovation, and community engagement.

Our goal is to create a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment where children can build confidence, develop social skills, and thrive through physical, creative, and educational experiences.

Key Responsibilities

Program Leadership & Administration

• Oversee all aspects of Summer Day Camp and year-round youth programming
• Design and implement engaging, age-appropriate curricula, themed activities, and special events
• Develop and manage daily schedules, including contingency plans (e.g., rain days)
• Ensure all programs meet YMCA standards and state licensing requirements
• Maintain policies, procedures, and program documentation
• Manage program budgets, expenses, purchasing, and inventory
• Collaborate with marketing to grow program enrollment and visibility
• Oversee program registration systems and timelines (including Daxko)
• Build relationships with vendors, community partners, and offsite program locations
• Stay current with industry trends and best practices in youth programming

Health & Safety

• Ensure the safety and well-being of all participants and staff
• Enforce emergency procedures, including incident reporting and response protocols
• Ensure proper supervision of children at all times
• Conduct and coordinate emergency drills in partnership with risk management
• Verify staff certifications and proper first aid response procedures

Staff Management

• Hire, train, schedule, and supervise full-time and part-time staff
• Support staff development and ongoing training
• Foster a positive, team-oriented work environment
• Participate in YMCA-wide initiatives, events, and community engagement efforts

Family & Community Engagement

• Build strong relationships with families through communication and feedback
• Support membership and development events
• Represent the YMCA in community outreach and partnership efforts

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field (Education, Recreation, Youth Development, etc.)
• Minimum 5 years of experience in a day camp environment
• At least 2 years in a supervisory or leadership role
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• Experience in program development and management
• Knowledge of youth development principles and social-emotional learning
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and solve problems effectively
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to engage diverse communities

What We’re Looking For

• A proactive and creative leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment
• A strong commitment to youth development and community impact
• A team player who can inspire staff and create meaningful experiences for children

Why Join the YMCA?

• Make a meaningful impact in your community
• Lead innovative and growing youth programs
• Be part of a mission-driven organization focused on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility

As well as a range of Benefits!

We offer a comprehensive and affordable benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and work–life balance:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance at a very low premium cost
• Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) with company contribution
• Retirement Benefits, including Pension (401a) and 403(b) plans with company match
• Six (6) Paid Holidays per year
• Two (2) Weeks of Paid Vacation
• Additional Paid Personal Time
• Free Family YMCA Membership, including access to our newly renovated fitness center, pools, and facilities
• Program Discounts of up to 50% off on eligible YMCA programs
• Advancement and Growth Opportunities
• Gain valuable experience working with children of all ages while developing behind-the-scenes knowledge of nonprofit management and program operations.

Salary : $55,000 - $65,000