Job Description
The Town of Middlefield Parks & Recreation Department is seeking an experienced Camp Director to lead its Summer Youth Camp program serving children in the community during the summer season.This leadership position is responsible for the overall operation of the camp program, including staff supervision, program planning, camper safety, and daily camp management.The Camp Director plays a central role in creating a safe, welcoming, and engaging summer environment for campers while fostering a strong culture of safety, responsibility, and community.The Camp Director works closely with the Parks & Recreation Director and other seasonal leadership staff to ensure that the camp operates smoothly and safely throughout the summer.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 nurse, counselors-in-training (CITs), and specialty staff The Camp Director serves as the primary on-site leader responsible for daily program operations Position Summary The Camp Director provides overall leadership and management for the Town's summer camp program.Responsibilities include supervising camp staff, implementing daily program schedules, supporting camper well-being, and maintaining safe 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 Camp Director plays a key role in implementing these standards and supporting a strong safety culture across all camp activities.Key Responsibilities Camp Leadership & Operations Oversee the daily operation of the Town's Summer Youth Camp program.Provide leadership and supervision to camp counselors, seasonal staff, and counselors-in-training.Maintain appropriate camper supervision and ensure safe program operations at all times.Support the development and implementation of structured, age-appropriate activities.Staff Supervision & Training Assist with hiring, training, and supervising seasonal camp staff.Lead preseason staff training and orientation sessions.Provide ongoing guidance and coaching to ensure staff professionalism and strong supervision practices.Foster a positive team environment among seasonal staff.Program Planning & Camper Experience Develop and implement a structured daily camp schedule that includes recreation, creative activities, outdoor play, and group events.Support specialty programming and visiting instructors when applicable.Promote a camp environment that encourages cooperation, creativity, and positive social development.Safety & Risk Management 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 that involve higher-risk environments such as water recreation or off-site outings.Maintain incident documentation and communicate safety concerns to Parks & Recreation leadership.Communication with Families Serve as the primary day-to-day contact for parents and guardians regarding camp operations.Communicate important program information to families.Address parent questions or concerns in a professional and timely manner.Minimum Qualifications Minimum age:21 years old Prior experience serving as a Camp Director or equivalent leadership role at a youth summer camp Minimum five (5) years of experience working in youth programs, camps, recreation programs, or related settings Demonstrated experience supervising staff and managing youth program operations Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills Ability to manage multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced environment Ability to promote a safe and supportive environment for children and staff Preferred Qualifications Experience working in municipal parks and recreation programs Current First Aid, CPR, and AED certification Experience supervising large seasonal staff teams Background in education, recreation, child development, or a related field Schedule Seasonal summer position.Camp operates Monday-Friday during daytime hours, with additional time required for preseason planning, staff training, and program preparation.Compensation Hourly rate $25-$30 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications.Pay:$25.00 - $30.00 per hour Expected hours:20.0 - 40.0 per week Application Question(s):Do you have a minimum five (5) years of experience working in youth programs, camps, recreation programs, or related settings? Do you have prior experience serving as a Camp Director or equivalent leadership role at a youth summer cam