Under the direction of the Summer Camp Director, the Skill Head is responsible for providing hands-on leadership to the staff members and campers involved in Minikani skills programming. The Assistant Summer Camp Director will plan and implement high-quality skills programming in their skill area that fulfills the Vision and Values of YMCA Camp Minikani.
The Skill Head will create a summer-long skills program that meets the developmental needs of all Minikani campers and fosters their development within their skill area. They will prioritize building relationships with all those involved in camp, including campers, staff members, parents, alumni, and community members. The Skill Head will provide direct leadership, guidance, and support for their skill area staff.
EDUCATION and or EXPERIENCE:
A minimum of 3-4 years of proven success in a camp setting. Should have a positive history of leadership in the areas of staff development, relationship building, and program management. The proven ability to establish and maintain favorable relationships with people of diverse backgrounds required. Lifeguard, First Aid, and CPR Pro certifications required.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
Model values of honesty, integrity, and the ability to work well with a diverse population of members
Outstanding judgment and commitment to safe practices
Outstanding ability to lead a staff team and to remain connected throughout the year
High level of knowledge and demonstrated competence in Minikani Skill areas
Live on site for duration of summer programming
The in-season schedule for this position is 5/31/26 - 8/17/26. Preferred applicants will have availability starting in 1/1/2026 for additional preseason responsibilities.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Directly supervises Skill Staff and carries out all supervisory responsibilities, including training, planning, and directing work, formally evaluating, appraising performance, disciplining, addressing complaints, and resolving problems. The Skill Head should also prioritize the personal and professional growth of Skill Staff.
- Understand and implement the Vision and Values of Camp Minikani and the YMCA.
- Build relationships with campers, staff, AD Staff, Camping Services team, parents, and alumni.
- Provide frequent feedback for skills staff to assist them in continuous development. Feedback should not wait until formal evaluations.
- Write and deliver thorough evaluations of skills staff twice a summer.
- Implement a 360 degree evaluation of skill area once a summer.
- Ensure that all skills start on time and all campers receive full 45 minutes of programming.
- Complete and compile skill verification checks for all staff.
- Oversee the implementation of the Leadership Training program as it relates to your skill area.
- Check over all Leadership Training evaluations for quality and content. Ensure that Leadership Trainees are receiving quality and timely written and oral feedback.
- Ensure Skill area complies with ACA Standards, State Licensing requirements, Health and Human Services regulations, and requirements of any other applicable governing body.
- Monitor Skills inventory and equipment for quality and safety throughout the summer.
- Provide afternoon activities for all camps.
- Create and implement a system to ensure all campers receive their crafts.
- Create a check-in/check-out system for staff use of craft supplies.
- Conduct bi-weekly Skill sign-ups for skill area for all camps.
- Oversee daily Skill attendance checks.
- Implement “sentries” program to ensure proper supervision during transitions.
- Assist in the planning and implementation of effective staff training.
- Assist with opening and closing day.
- Assist with All Camp Days and Evening Activities.
- Take on additional responsibilities, including but not limited to Staff Affairs Committee, Staff Softball Manager, Opening/Closing day driver, Opening/Closing day DJ, Outpost check-in/check-out.
- Ensure that Skill area is represented in Camp’s social media outlets (weekly blog).
- Responsible to maintain and stay within the budgeted parameters.
- Seek new avenues for Skill programs and equipment.
- Document and save all staffing and programming information.
- Enforce staff expectations in an appropriate manner.
- Some off-season preparation (likely no more than 15 hours between January 1 and May 31)
- Any other duties as assigned by Assistant Summer Camp Director or Summer Camp Director.
- Have Fun!