Camp Director

Position Purpose

The Camp Director provides strategic, operational, and programmatic leadership for all facets of Camp Shaw-waw-nas-see. This role is responsible for furthering the camp’s mission through the design and execution of high-quality camp programs, facility and rental operations, and year-round community engagement. The Camp Director serves as the lead on-site professional overseeing staff development, youth programming, safety, external partnerships, and  ensuring that all initiatives align with the values and standards of the Camp Shaw-waw-nas-see Association and ACA accreditation.

Key Responsibilities

Program Leadership & Development

• Design, implement, and evaluate youth camp and rental programs that promote personal growth, community-building, and outdoor education.
• Oversee the development of seasonal and year-round programming calendars, activity schedules, staff schedules, and lesson plans that meet ACA standards and camper needs.
• Foster a culture of inclusion, creativity, and continuous improvement, ensuring that programs reflect Camp Shaw-waw-nas-see’s mission, vision, and values. 

Staff Supervision & Training

• Recruit, hire, train, and supervise year-round and seasonal program staff and volunteers  to ensure effective performance and adherence to safety and behavior expectations.
• Delegate duties and provide ongoing coaching and formal evaluations to year-round staff and volunteers.
• Oversee ongoing delegation of duties, coaching, and formal evaluations to seasonal staff.
• Develop and lead comprehensive staff orientation and professional development programs in alignment with ACA standards.

Facility & Risk Management

• Ensure the safety, cleanliness, and functionality of all camp facilities and equipment.
• Conduct and document regular inspections and risk assessments to maintain a safe environment for campers, staff, and guests.
• Collaborate with the Board of Directors and the Maintenance and Facilities Manager on major maintenance projects, prioritizing and delegating as needed.

Operations & Administration

• Oversee day-to-day camp operations including program implementation and delivery, camper engagement, communication, and office administration.
• Oversee and coordinate all aspects of rental group logistics, including contracts, on-site hosting, billing, and client follow-up.
• Prepare and submit a monthly director’s report to the Board of Directors and present updates at board meetings.
• Manage ordering of supplies for maintenance, programming, marketing, and overall operations.
• Lead marketing and outreach efforts both for summer programs and rental opportunities, including social media, community engagement, and representation at events.

Compliance & Standards

• Ensure full implementation of and compliance with of American Camp Association (ACA) standards across all aspects of camp operations.
• Maintain accurate documentation, reports, and compliance records for program quality, safety, and funding purposes.
• Serve as the lead on-site expert in ACA policies and procedures, working in collaboration with year-round staff. 

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Recreation, Education, Nonprofit Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of administrative or leadership experience in a residential camp or youth-serving setting.
• Current First Aid and CPR certification (or willingness to obtain by start date).
• Must be 25 years or older with a valid driver’s license and clean driving record.
• Ability to reside on-site year-round (housing and seasonal meals provided).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience with Camp Shaw or a similar ACA-accredited camp.
• Previous full operational responsibility for a residential camp
• Background in nonprofit operations, youth development, or outdoor education.
• Customer service and event coordination experience.
• Understanding of American Camp Association (ACA) standards and Health Department regulations.
• Familiarity with CRM systems, digital marketing, or fundraising platforms.

Core Competencies

• Demonstrate visionary leadership with strong organizational and decision-making skills.
• Build trustworthy relationships and have the ability to inspire and guide diverse teams in dynamic, fast-paced environments.
• Strong and effective communication, conflict resolution, and interpersonal skills.
• Passion for and commitment to youth development and outdoor education.
• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends during peak seasons.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lead and participate in active camp programs, including walking on uneven terrain, lifting up to 60 lbs, and responding quickly in emergencies.
• Willingness to work in outdoor settings and varying weather conditions.
• Willingness to work extended or irregular hours during peak programming times. 

This role requires physical stamina, including periods of standing, bending, stooping, and stretching. Candidates should have eye-hand coordination and manual dexterity to manage camp equipment and lead activities, as well as normal hearing and vision to effectively plan, observe, and communicate. The position involves living in a camp environment, working irregular hours, and adapting to exposure to sun, heat, and varied weather conditions.

This is a security-sensitive position. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a comprehensive background check, which includes, but is not limited to, a criminal history review, CANTS (Child Abuse and Neglect Tracking System) clearance, and verification against the Registered Sex Offender list.

Camp Shaw-waw-nas-see is an AA/EOE employer.

To Apply please send the following to Mark Steffen, Board President, at Mark@marksteffenlaw.com

• Resume/CV
• Cover letter explaining your relevant skills and why you want to work at Camp Shaw
• 3 Professional References with phone number and email address