Day Camp Director

YMCA Buffalo Niagara operates Day Camp Programs at YMCA facilities and at elementary schools throughout Western NY.

When applying for this job, you will be directed to select the location(s) you are able to work at:

• City of Buffalo:  William-Emslie YMCA
• Amherst:  Independent Health YMCA
• Kenmore:  Ken-Ton YMCA & Hamilton Elementary
• West Seneca:  Southtowns YMCA
• Lancaster:  Como Park Elementary School
• Lockport:  Lockport YMCA
• Youngstown:  Lewiston-Porter Primary

YMCA Buffalo Niagara is an equal opportunity employer committed to practicing inclusion. 

POSITION SUMMARY:

Responsible for the successful operation of the summer day camp program. Plans, organizes, and implements activities. Provides direction, supervision, and support to day camp staff. Performs administrative tasks and ensures the safety of campers.

GENERAL WORK SCHEDULE:  

Monday – Friday, up to 40 hours per week, while the camp program is in session.  Must be available to work between the hours of 7:00 am and 6:00 pm.

BENEFITS:

Complimentary YMCA Buffalo Niagara Family Membership, discounted program fees, paid sick leave, training and leadership development opportunities, and a fun work environment.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Plan and implement camp activities as per the program design.
2. Train, supervise, direct, and evaluate program staff. Participate in the selection process to identify the best camp staff. Manage the staff schedule to ensure staff-to-child ratios are met.
3. Provide daily oversight and leadership of camp operations. Identify and solve problems, implement appropriate discipline techniques, and enforce policies and procedures.
4. Actively ensure the safety and well-being of all children by adhering to YMCA Buffalo Niagara Child Abuse Prevention policies. Recognize, respond to, and immediately report any suspected abuse, policy violations, or safety concerns.
5. Plan and facilitate components of the pre-camp staff training program.
6. Develop positive relationships and ensure effective communication between staff and parents of campers.
7. Develop and maintain positive, open communication between campers and camp staff.
8. Implement and maintain work rules and regulations as required by YMCA Buffalo Niagara, the NYS Department of Health and other regulatory agencies.
9. Pursue new and innovative program initiatives.
10. Provide for and organize equipment and supplies for camp activities.
11. Follow and enforce department protocol to clean and disinfect commonly used surfaces. Ensure PPE compliance. 
12. Maintain the cleanliness and organization of program/work areas.
13. Participate with campers when needed, including in the pool during swimming lessons and free swim.
14. Oversee and perform administrative functions including attendance, camper development, program planning, and evaluation.
15. Schedule, plan, and facilitate regular staff meetings.
16. Implement ongoing safety checks to ensure a healthy and safe camp environment. Implement emergency procedures when necessary.
17. Performs additional duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Must have knowledge of and previous work experience in camping, group work, recreation and related fields.
2. Experience in program administration and staff supervision.
3. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
4. Have and maintain community CPR certification. (American Red Cross, ASHI, American Heart Association)
5. Responding to Emergencies or Advanced First Aid certification is preferred and may be required before the start of camp programs. (American Red Cross, ASHI, American Heart Association)
6. Must be at least 21 years of age.

Salary : $17