Director of Theme & Travel Camps

Job Summary

The Director of Theme & Travel Camps oversees the planning, development, staffing, and operation of MJCCA Day Camps’ Theme and Travel Camp programs from initial concept through evaluation. The Director also supports year-round School’s Out Camp programming and serves as an integral member of the Day Camps leadership team.

This position supervises seasonal staff and manages programming, logistics, vendors, budgets, family communication, and daily operations. The ideal candidate is highly organized, creative, adaptable, and able to manage multiple programs and priorities in a fast-paced camp environment.

Duties & Responsibilities

Theme & Travel Camp Programming

• Plan, develop, and evaluate annual Theme & Travel Camp offerings, including researching new programs, destinations, activities, and experiences.
• Develop age-appropriate schedules, curriculum, activities, and staff resources.
• Create accurate program information for registration, marketing, and family communications.
• Monitor enrollment and adjust programming, staffing, and resources as needed.
• Evaluate programs and trips and recommend improvements for future seasons.

Travel Camp Operations

• Research and select destinations, activities, transportation, and vendors within established budgets.
• Plan and manage itineraries, reservations, tickets, transportation, waivers, and required documentation.
• Prepare staff with itineraries, camper information, emergency procedures, and expectations.
• Develop contingency plans and respond to transportation, weather, camper, and other trip-related issues.
• Maintain relationships with attractions, transportation providers, contractors, and community partners.

Staff Leadership

• Recruit, interview, hire, train, schedule, supervise, and evaluate Theme & Travel Camp staff.
• Supervise seasonal Unit Heads, Program Assistants, and counselors.
• Establish clear expectations, delegate responsibilities, and hold staff accountable.
• Provide ongoing coaching, feedback, and support and address performance concerns as needed.
• Participate in Day Camps orientation, training, and staff development.

Camp Operations & Administration

• Ensure programs are fully planned, staffed, supplied, and prepared for each camp session.
• Oversee daily operations, including schedules, spaces, supplies, equipment, staffing, and coordination with shared Day Camps activities.
• Maintain a visible presence and support staff, campers, and programs throughout camp.
• Manage vendors and contractors, including schedules, pricing, contracts, W-9s, and certificates of insurance.
• Manage program budgets, purchasing, payroll, timekeeping, and required records.
• Ensure compliance with camp policies, safety procedures, and organizational expectations.

Families & Camper Support

• Provide responsive, professional customer service to campers and families.
• Prepare and communicate weekly program information and updates.
• Support staff with camper behavior and individual needs and manage escalated concerns in partnership with appropriate camp leadership.
• Maintain appropriate documentation and follow-up.
• Support camper recruitment and retention efforts.

School’s Out & Year-Round Responsibilities

• Help plan and implement School’s Out programs throughout the year, including activities, staffing, schedules, supplies, spaces, and family communication.
• Provide on-site supervision and ensure programs are organized, appropriately staffed, and prepared.
• Collaborate with Camp Directors and other departments on shared schedules, spaces, staffing, and resources.
• Participate in camp-wide events, recruitment activities, tours, expos, staff engagement initiatives, and other Day Camps programs as needed.
• Stay current on trends and best practices in youth programming and day camping.
• Perform other duties as assigned and adhere to all MJCCA policies and procedures.

Qualifications & Skills

• 3+ years of experience in camping, recreation, education, youth programming, or a related field preferred.
• Experience supervising and developing staff.
• Strong organizational, communication, and time-management skills.
• Creative thinker with the ability to develop engaging, age-appropriate programming.
• Strong problem-solving skills, sound judgment, and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple programs and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to delegate, provide feedback, and hold staff accountable.
• Comfortable working with children, families, staff, vendors, and community partners.
• Flexible and adaptable when plans or circumstances change.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends as required by the camp calendar.