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Senior Program Director
YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth
Come join our amazing team in Minnesota's Northwoods! We are looking for an innovative and hard working year-round Program Director.
Job Description
The Program Director plays a vital leadership role at Camp Olson YMCA, ensuring that all programs reflect the YMCA’s mission and Camp Olson’s tradition of excellence. This position is responsible for the design, delivery, and evaluation of safe, engaging, and inclusive programs that foster personal growth, community, and fun for campers, families, and staff.
As a member of the year-round leadership team, the Program Director supports the Camp Director in advancing the overall mission of Camp Olson, while directly supervising and mentoring seasonal program staff. The Program Director is expected to live on-site year-round and be an active presence in camp life.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Recreation, Education, Youth Development, or related field (or equivalent experience).
- Minimum 2–3 years of experience in program development, youth leadership, or camp/recreation management.
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and supervise seasonal staff.
- Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
- Commitment to creating a warm, welcoming and inclusive environment for all.
- Must be able to live on-site during year-round and actively participate in camp life.
- Experience recruiting, hiring and working with international staff.
- Experience developing, managing and overseeing tripping programs.
Essential Functions
Key Responsibilities
Program Development & Delivery
- Lead the planning, organization, and delivery of summer camp and year-round programs (youth, family, and group events).
- Ensure all programs are developmentally appropriate, inclusive, and aligned with YMCA values.
Incorporate outdoor education, leadership development, and environmental stewardship into program design. - Regularly evaluate program effectiveness and participant feedback to make improvements.
Staff Leadership & Development
- Recruit, interview, hire, and train seasonal staff and volunteers for program roles.Provide ongoing supervision, mentorship, and performance evaluations to staff.
- Develop and deliver pre-camp and in-season staff training sessions focused on safety, skill development, and leadership.
- Foster a positive and supportive staff culture that emphasizes collaboration, accountability, and growth.
Camper & Family Engagement
- Promote a welcoming and inclusive camp environment where every camper feels a sense of belonging.
- Support camper success by modeling positive behavior management and conflict resolution strategies.
- Communicate effectively with families, ensuring they feel informed and supported before, during, and after camp sessions.
- Help build long-term camper and family retention by strengthening the quality and consistency of programs.
Risk Management & Safety
- Maintain a strong culture of safety across all programs, ensuring compliance with YMCA standards, ACA accreditation, and state regulations.
- Develop and implement risk management procedures, emergency action plans, and training drills.
- Maintain appropriate certifications (CPR/First Aid required; lifeguard, equestrian, or boating certifications preferred).
- Monitor and maintain program equipment, facilities, and supplies in safe working condition.
Administration & Collaboration
- Assist in managing program budgets, ensuring responsible use of resources and supplies.
- Maintain accurate records of camper participation, incidents, and staff certifications.
- Support camper recruitment, marketing, and community outreach efforts by representing Camp Olson at events, schools, and YMCA functions.
- Collaborate with the Camp Director and other leadership staff to align programs with camp goals, strategic vision, and operational priorities.
Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies
Change Leadership
Engaging Community
Collaboration
Communication and Insfluence
Inclusion
Critical Thinking and Decision Making
Fiscal Management
Functional Expertise
Innovation
Program Management
Developeing Self and Others
Emotional Maturity
Required Certifications
CPR/First Aid and AED
LGI Certification
Additional certifications (archery, riflery, equestrian, boating, etc.) preferred.
Valid Drivers License and clean driving record