Job Description
Assistant Camp Director - Summer Youth Camp Town of Middlefield Parks & Recreation The Town of Middlefield Parks & Recreation Department is seeking an experienced Assistant Camp Director to support leadership of its Summer Youth Camp program serving children in the community during the summer season.This seasonal leadership position assists with the daily operation of the camp program, including staff supervision, camper safety, activity coordination, behavior support, and day-to-day camp management.The Assistant Camp Director works closely with the Camp Director and Parks & Recreation leadership to help create a safe, welcoming, organized, and engaging summer environment for campers while supporting a strong culture of safety, responsibility, and community.Program Overview Municipal summer day camp serving approximately 100 campers per week Campers range from early elementary through middle school Camp program includes outdoor recreation, creative activities, group games, and water-based activities at Lake Beseck Seasonal staff team includes camp counselors, camp health supervisor, counselors-in-training (CITs), and specialty staff The Assistant Camp Director serves as a key on-site leadership staff member supporting daily camp operations and staff supervision Position Summary The Assistant Camp Director supports the overall leadership and day-to-day management of the Town's summer camp program.Responsibilities include assisting with staff supervision, helping implement daily camp schedules, supporting camper well-being, assisting with behavior management and communication, and helping maintain safe and organized program operations.While municipal camps are currently exempt from Connecticut youth camp licensing requirements, the Town of Middlefield strives to follow recognized youth camp safety standards and best practices.The Assistant Camp Director plays an important role in helping implement these standards and in supporting a strong safety culture across all camp activities.Key Responsibilities Camp Leadership & Operations Assist the Camp Director with the daily operation of the Town's Summer Youth Camp program.Help oversee daily transitions, group movement, attendance, and implementation of the camp schedule.Provide on-site leadership and support to camp counselors, seasonal staff, and counselors-in-training.Help maintain appropriate camper supervision and safe program operations at all times.Step in to support camp operations in the absence of the Camp Director, as assigned.Staff Supervision & Support Assist with preseason staff training and orientation sessions.Provide day-to-day support, coaching, and guidance to camp counselors and seasonal staff.Help model professionalism, positive behavior management, and strong supervision practices.Support a positive, collaborative team environment among camp staff.Assist with monitoring staff performance and bringing concerns to the Camp Director.Program Planning & Camper Experience Help implement a structured daily camp schedule that includes recreation, creative activities, outdoor play, and group events.Support activity planning, supply organization, and preparation for special events or theme days.Assist specialty staff or visiting instructors, as needed.Help create a camp environment that encourages cooperation, inclusion, creativity, and positive social development.Support campers in participating successfully in daily activities and routines.Camper Support & Behavior Management Assist staff in managing camper behavior using positive, age-appropriate approaches.Respond to camper concerns, social challenges, and minor incidents in a calm and professional manner.Help support inclusion, peer relationships, and a positive camp culture.Communicate significant camper concerns to the Camp Director and Parks & Recreation leadership as appropriate.Safety & Risk Management Help ensure camp operations follow recognized youth camp safety standards and best practices.Maintain appropriate supervision and safety procedures for all activities.Coordinate with waterfront or specialty staff regarding activities involving higher-risk settings such as water recreation or off-site outings.Assist with incident documentation and communicate safety concerns promptly to camp leadership.Help monitor camp spaces, supplies, and routines for safety and organization.Communication with Families Support communication with parents and guardians regarding daily camp operations, as directed by the Camp Director.Assist in relaying important camp information to families.Help address parent questions or routine concerns in a professional and timely manner, escalating issues when appropriate.Minimum Qualifications Minimum age:21 years old Prior experience in a leadership or supervisory role in a youth camp, youth program, recreation program, school-age program, or related setting