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Program Director
YMCA Camp Olson
The YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth is looking for a cause-driven leader to join the team.
Job Description
Live, Lead, and make an impact at camp - year-round.
Just 15 minutes from downtown Fort Worth exists a 360-acre property of scenic, wooded magic called YMCA Camp Carter. Since 1948, Camp Carter is where adventure has met purpose. We serve thousands of children, families, and adults each year through overnight and day camps, outdoor education, equestrian programs, retreats, and family programs.
We're looking for an energetic, fun-loving, sometimes silly, passionate, strategic, and mission-driven leader to join our team as a Senior Program Director - someone ready to shape the future of Camp Carter's programs, guide emerging leaders, and grow the camp's community impact.
Why You'll Love this Role
As a Senior Program Director, you'll have the unique opportunity to:
Lead a talented team of key full-time and part-time program leaders.
Live onsite in a three-bedroom home-with utilities included-as part of your compensation package valued at $5000+ annually.
Oversee the design and delivery of transformation camp experiences for youth, families, and groups.
Strengthen community connections and partnership that expand access and visibility For ALL.
Champion program quality, safety, and creativity that align with YMCA and ACA Standards
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent experience) in education, recreation, outdoor education, environmental sciences, or a related field.
- At least 3 years of experience leading programs in camp, outdoor education, or youth development settings.
- Strong background in staff supervision, program design, and risk management.
- A passion for mentoring others and building high-performing teams.
- Excellent communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
- A can-do attitude where you seek laughter, learning, and opportunities.
- Knowledge or experience of American Camp Association standards is a plus.
Essential Functions
Your Core Focus Areas
The Senior Program Director is responsible for the oversight of key revenue-generating programs at YMCA Camp Carter - including day camp, overnight camp, outdoor education, and groups/retreats/events.
A level of direct program leadership is required year-round, working alongside the Program Director and key part-time staff leaders in the off-season, and collaborating with seasonal camp directors during the camp season. The program team works collectively to plan, implement, and evaluate all program to ensure they meet YMCA quality, safety, and mission standards.
You'll lead through three key lenses defined in the YMCA of Fort Worth's Camp Leadership Playbook.
1. The Program Architect
Shape a cohesive, mission-centered program portfolio across outdoor education, day camp, overnight camp, and retreats. Design seasonal program schedules, develop curriculum, and ensure staff are trained and supported to deliver meaningful experiences that ignite curiosity and belonging among youth and families.
2. The Quality Compass
Safeguard excellence by leading accreditation efforts, safety systems, and continuous improvement processes. Empower staff to deliver consistent, high-quality experiences that meet American Camp Association (ACA) standards and exceed camper and guest expectations.
3. The Growth Gardener
Grow participation and visibility by building relationships with major school districts, nonprofits, and community organizations. Collaborate with the marketing team to tell the Camp Carter story and help more families discover the power of camp.
Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies
Our Culture
Our mission: To put Christian principles into practice through programs, services, and relationships that build a healthy spirit, mind, and body, For ALL.
At the YMCA, we don’t just show up — we show up with purpose.
Our values guide everything we do:
Welcoming. Nurturing. Hopeful. Determined. Genuine.
Join a team that’s dedicated to strengthening community, empowering youth, and creating experiences that change lives.
Required Certifications
Compensation & Benefits
Salary: $52,000 – $55,000 (commensurate with experience)
Housing: Three-bedroom, two-bath home on camp property with utilities included. Living onsite is required.
Benefits: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage; life and disability insurance; YMCA retirement plan with up to 12% employer contribution (once eligible); generous paid time off (up to 288 hours annually); and free or discounted YMCA programs for you and your family.