Under the direction of the Executive Director, the Wilderness & Year-Round Program Director provides strategic and operational leadership for Camp Gorham’s wilderness programming and year-round group experiences, including Family Camps, Women’s Wellness, and rental groups. This role is responsible for ensuring high-quality, mission-driven programming that reflects the YMCA’s commitment to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
The Director leads program design, implementation, and continuous improvement with a strong emphasis on safety, staff development, and exceptional guest experiences. Responsibilities include oversight of wilderness trip logistics, curriculum development, risk management, and emergency preparedness, as well as coordination and delivery of non-summer programming.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Wilderness Program Leadership & Operations
· Provide leadership and oversight of wilderness programs, including trip planning, site scouting, curriculum development, and program execution.
· Ensure safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate experiences that align with YMCA program quality standards.
· Manage all trip logistics, including scheduling, vendors/outfitters, equipment, food preparation, transportation, and post-program evaluation.
· Maintain compliance with Department of Health (DOH) and American Camp Association (ACA) standards; ensure accurate and timely documentation.
· Lead risk management efforts by maintaining and updating emergency response procedures; serve as primary contact for wilderness incidents.
· Recruit, train, and support seasonal staff in partnership with the Camp Director, fostering a culture of continuous learning and growth.
· Support budget development and stewardship by managing program expenses, purchasing, and inventory in alignment with organizational goals.
Year-Round Programs & Group Services Oversight
· Oversee communication, booking, and scheduling for Family Camps, Women’s Wellness programs, and rental groups.
· Ensure high-quality hospitality experiences by coordinating staffing, program delivery, and guest services.
· Partner with the Camp Ranger to ensure facilities and property is clean, safe, and prepared for incoming groups. This could include cabin and program space cleaning, snow removal or lawn care.
· Maintain accurate program and booking records within CampBrain.
· Participate in a rotating on-call schedule, including weekends, to support year-round operations.
Marketing, Camper Recruitment & Community Engagement
· Execute outreach and recruitment strategies in collaboration with the Camp Gorham team and Association marketing.
· Manage and maintain Camp Gorham’s social media presence to promote programs and engagement.
· Represent Camp Gorham at community events, outreach opportunities, and camper/family reunions.
· Actively participate in YMCA committees, events, and initiatives, strengthening relationships with members, volunteers, and community partners.
· Must be at least 21 years of age with a high school diploma or GED; bachelor’s degree in recreation, outdoor education, youth development or a related field, or equivalent experience.
· Minimum of three years of experience designing and managing high-quality youth development or outdoor programs.
· Minimum two years’ supervisory experience with the ability to recruit, develop, coach, and evaluate staff, reflecting YMCA competencies in developing self & others.
· Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build authentic relationships with staff, participants, families, and community partners).
· Proven ability to foster a welcoming, inclusive environment that values diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
· Sound judgment and decision-making skills, particularly in dynamic outdoor or risk-based environments, demonstrating emotional maturity.
· Strong organizational, project management, and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
· Experience in wilderness trip planning, outdoor education, and adventure programming preferred.
· Proficiency in Microsoft Office; experience with CampBrain or similar systems preferred.
· Wilderness First Aid (WFA) or Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification, or willingness to obtain upon hire.
· CPR/AED and First Aid certification required within 60 days of hire.
· Demonstrated commitment to the YMCA mission and the ability to model YMCA core values in all aspects of work.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
· Ability to work both indoors and outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
· Ability to navigate campgrounds and uneven terrain.
· Ability to sit or stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 pounds.
· Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and on-call responsibilities.
· Living on camp property required.