Camp Otter Director

Job Description

Bring your passion to the Merrimack Valley YMCA. The Camp Otter Director provides safe, motivational, and knowledgeable leadership to members, volunteers, and program participants under the supervision of the Senior Executive Director of Camping Services. This role is responsible for the overall management of Camp Otter, including its facility, staff, campers, parent relations, budget, and on‑site operations. Key goals include expanding outdoor education, adventure‑based programming, and rentals, while ensuring the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and quality in camp operations.

Seasonal responsibilities may require some evenings and weekends for staff training, camp tours, family nights, and special events. During the off‑season, the Director will be responsible for the registration process and assist with the promotion and marketing initiatives for the Camping Services Branch. This position requires flexibility in scheduling, including evenings and weekends during peak seasons and special events. Additionally, the Director will serve as a Human Resources Liaison for the Camping Services Branch, supporting the Camp Directors with seasonal staff hiring paperwork in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures.

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world.

We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you. All employees are mandated reporters and will adhere to the requirements outlined in the Child Abuse Prevention Policy and Procedures. Per our commitment to a safe environment and youth protection, you must attend required CAP and Safety/Risk Management Trainings each year.

• BA/BS degree in education, sociology, psychology, physical education, recreation, human services or related field (preferred).
• Minimum 3 years of experience working with youth, teens and adults in a recreation setting and/or camp experience.
• Preferred minimum age of 25 years, in accordance with American Camp Association accreditation standards.
• Experience in program planning and development.
• Strong leadership, decision‑making, and financial management skills, including budgeting and purchasing.
• Knowledge of staff supervision techniques and ability to implement them effectively.
• Exemplary behavior as a role model and team member.
• Strong human relations skills to foster positive relationships with community agencies, staff, volunteers, parents, members, and program participants.
• Enjoys working outdoors and can adapt to a rustic camp setting.
• Broad knowledge of camp activities, camp goals and objectives, risk management concepts, and contemporary trends in the camping industry.
• Knowledge of the YMCA Movement and trends in youth development and camp programs.
• Familiarity with and ability to ensure compliance with State of New Hampshire regulations for summer youth camps, American Camp Association standards, and New Hampshire Labor Department guidelines.
• Appropriate training and experience in ropes courses, climbing walls, and adventure‑based programming, including safety training, facilitative techniques, and technical/physical aptitude.
• YMCA Team Leader Certification (or obtained within first two years in position).
• Effective conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to work autonomously while upholding the YMCA core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
• High level of organizational skills, attention to detail, and accuracy.
• Excellent computer skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Power Point, Publisher).
• Familiarity with camp and membership software programs or ability to learn this software quickly.
• Cer…