Senior Director of Day Camp & Youth Programming

Summary

The Senior Director of Day Camp and Youth Programming is responsible for the vision, leadership, and operational management of J Day Camps and Youth Programs across both JCC campuses. This role plays a critical part in ensuring that all programming aligns with the J’s mission and delivers high-quality, innovative, and engaging experiences for children and families. The position directly supervises the Manager of Youth Programs and the Director of Youth Services, who oversees after-school programs, vacation day camps, and other youth initiatives.

This position is responsible for developing and implementing a dynamic vision for J Day Camps and Youth Programs that supports community needs and The J’s strategic goals, as well as delivers high-quality experiences for campers and program participants.

Program Leadership and Development

• Design and implement engaging, inclusive, and age-appropriate day camp and youth programming.
• Incorporate Jewish values, traditions, and culture into the camp experience in a way that is accessible and welcoming to all participants.
• Develop and maintain seasonal schedules, weekly themes, and specialty activities.
• Evaluate programs annually and implement improvements based on camper, participant, family, and staff feedback.
• Ensure programs reflect current trends and best practices in child development, education, and recreation.

Staff Management and Development

• Supervise, mentor, and develop full-time Youth Staff.
• Recruit, hire, train, and supervise a seasonal day camp staff of 50+ including assistant directors, specialists, and day camp counselors.
• Develop and deliver comprehensive pre-camp training focused on safety, youth engagement, Judaic programming, and inclusive practices.
• Provide ongoing coaching, mentoring, and camp staff evaluations.
• Support staff development to meet the highest standards of performance and to take on additional responsibilities as appropriate.

Camper & Family Engagement

• Build strong, trusting relationships with campers and families to ensure a positive experience.
• Respond promptly to parent concerns and feedback.
• Contribute to year-round camper newsletters and help organize events that maintain family connections to J Day Camps and Youth Programming.
• Spearhead recruiting efforts to grow camper participation numbers.

Operations & Administration

• Participate in strategic planning with supervisors and the Board of Directors to ensure long-term strategy and vision for programs.
• Develop and monitor the annual camp budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility by direct reports.
• Oversee registration, camper assignments, and waitlist management.
• Collaborate with facilities, aquatics, security, and other J departments to ensure smooth operations.

Marketing & Outreach

• Partner with the marketing team to create promotional materials, social media content, and targeted outreach campaigns.
• Attend community events and JCC open houses to promote J Day Camps and Youth Programming.
• Collaborate with other JCC youth program areas to cross-promote offerings.

Safety & Compliance

• Maintain the highest standards of health, safety, and risk management in all programs.
• Ensure compliance with ACA standards, state licensing, and JCC policies, as well as local, state, and federal regulations.

Budgeting & Financial Oversight

• Develop and manage program budgets effectively.
• Monitor revenue and expenses to meet financial goals.
• Create and achieve KPIs that monitor critical success factors for programs.

Community Engagement & Communication

• Act as a key ambassador for JCC youth programs in the community.
• Build strong relationships with families, schools, community partners, and other stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Recreation, Education, Camp Administration, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of leadership experience in day camp, overnight camp, youth programming, or related setting.
• Proven success in staff hiring, training, and supervision.
• Strong skills in budgeting, scheduling, metrics, and program evaluation.
• Knowledge of Jewish culture, heritage, and traditions preferred; openness to learning required.
• Must have proven skill in the use of Microsoft Office suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) and must have proven ability to learn new software programs as industry specific software will be used as part of this position.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse populations.
• Current CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends during peak season.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, sit, and reach with hands and arms frequently.
• Ability to perform manual labor, work indoors and outdoors, and lift up to 50 pounds.
• Vision abilities include close, distance, peripheral, depth perception, and focus adjustment.
• Ability to bend, kneel, crouch, or reach overhead to store or retrieve materials

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance; retirement plan; paid time off; and professional development opportunities.
• Complimentary JCC membership and discounts on programs.