A Director of Operations is responsible for the day-to-day operations of a company or organization. Plans, organizes, directs and evaluates delivery of goods and services. Supervises staff, oversee projects and daily work activities. May have responsibility for managing supplies and materials, budgets or customer relations; may serve as liaison to senior management.
The Operations Director - Overnight Camp contributes to the planning, delivery, and continuous improvement of year-round camp programs and operations. Working in partnership with Senior Directors and the broader leadership team, this role helps ensure high-quality, safe, mission-aligned experiences for campers, families, and guests. The Operations Director supports both programmatic and operational functions, including seasonal staff recruitment, training, and supervision; coordination of program and site readiness; management of equipment and resources; and implementation of risk-management practices. The role also assists with participant recruitment and retention efforts, budget planning, and the Camp Annual Campaign, while maintaining strong communication and relationship-building across the camp community.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Program Leadership Provides year-round leadership in planning, delivering, and evaluating camp programs to ensure high standards of safety, quality, and participant experience. Supports the development and implementation of program goals, metrics, and standards aligned with the camp's strategic direction and long-range plan. Ensures all programs—summer and extended season—are delivered with consistency, integrity, and alignment to YMCA values and best practices in the camping industry. Oversees training, supervision, and performance of seasonal program and/or operations staff to ensure effective program delivery and excellent customer service. Staff Development Recruits, hires, trains, supervises, and evaluates year-round and seasonal housekeeping staff, and in collaboration with senior leadership team, support with other seasonal staff and program leaders. Ensures staff receive appropriate training, coaching, and certification support to maintain safety, skill development, and program excellence across all seasons. Models and reinforces relationship-building skills, positive communication, and a culture of inclusion among staff and participants. Operational Support Supports year-round operational functions of camp, including program spaces, participant services, logistics, and general camp readiness. Assists in coordinating facilities, equipment, and site needs to ensure safe, clean, and well-maintained environments for all programs. Manages assigned equipment, supplies, and program resources, including purchasing, inventory, maintenance, and storage. Provides support to transportation, guest services, or other operational areas assigned by senior leadership. Community Engagement Builds and maintains collaborative relationships with families, community partners, and peer organizations to strengthen program relevance and visibility. Communicates clearly and consistently with staff, participants, and families to support positive experiences and operational effectiveness. Represents camp at recruitment events, fairs, tours, and community engagements to support enrollment and staff hiring. Fiscal Stewardship Supports efficient program delivery through thoughtful planning, cost management, and alignment with organizational priorities. Develop and manage program budgets to meet financial goals and use resources responsibly. Contribute to the YMCA Annual Campaign by securing gifts that advances camp's overall target. Program Experience Ensures a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive environment for all participants. Provides leadership presence during program sessions, assisting with supervision, risk management, and participant support across all seasons. Serves as a lead or support facilitator for non-summer programs as assigned. Ensures compliance with YMCA policies, risk-management practices, and relevant industry standards. Maintains accurate records related to program operations, staff training, certifications, and participant needs. Participates in cross-departmental teams, committees, and planning groups to support coordinated camp operations and continuous improvement. Additional Responsibilities Participates in required trainings, meetings, conferences, and retreats as part of the full-time camp leadership team. Contributes to a positive team culture and supports colleagues across departments to ensure seamless year-round operations. Completion of all required annual trainings related to safety, compliance, and child protection as assigned. Performs additional responsibilities as assigned by the Executive Director or required of all full-time YMCA staff.
PROGRAM SPECIFIC ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Supports all year-round operational functions—including dining, security, housekeeping, transportation, and camp center—in coordination with the Senior Operations Director to ensure high-quality service and safety. Supervises seasonal Operations Team members including but no limited to: Dining Hall, Service Corps and camp store. Manages the Coastal Cabin Rental program, serving as the primary point of contact for guest needs and on-site response. Serve in Props role with responsibility for planning and facilitation of 50% of weekend programs. Oversees all transportation operations, including driver training, CDL development, compliance, and coordination of camper, staff, and program travel. Manages the Camps' vehicle fleet in partnership with the Association Fleet Superintendent, ensuring maintenance, cleanliness, recordkeeping, and operational readiness. Leads major community and partnership initiatives, including Presents for Pamlico Kids, local outreach events, community days, parades and collaborations with education, health, and recreation partners. Provides operational leadership for Extended Season and retreat groups—serving as lead facilitator for 50% of adult/teen retreats. Contributes to recruitment events, the Annual Campaign, and cross-season risk management as part of the Director Teams. Certification Requirements (must obtain within 30 days of starting and maintain throughout employment): CPRO, Basic First Aid, Administering Emergency Oxygen, Serve Safe, and Site Specific High Ropes Certification. This position will require that the incumbent live on site at Camp during the Summer Season and during 50% of Extended Season as assigned by the Extended Season Senior Program Director.
QUALIFICATIONS
Degree in related field preferred and 1+ year of related experience. Previous overnight camp or youth program experience desired but not required. Experienced in and passionate about creating and fostering communities and relationship building through programs. Demonstrated experience in program and personnel development. Ability to effectively manage staff, programs, and department schedules. Oral, public speaking and written communication skills. Requires a positive attitude, high level of initiative and professionalism, and enjoy working in and creating a strong team environment. Demonstrate initiative, effectively prioritize, and possess strong organizational skills. A commercial Driver's License, with "P" endorsement, to drive a YMCA bus as needed is a plus but not required. Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community.
Multi-lingual desired but not required.
WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here represent those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Office and program settings with frequent interaction in various camp spaces including extended time in nature and exposure to varied terrain, wildlife, and changing weather conditions. Moderate noise levels; may be louder during youth or community activities. Regular use of computer, phone, and other office technology. Frequent standing, walking, bending, and reaching; occasional lifting or moving up to 40 lbs. Flexible schedule required — will include early mornings, evenings, weekends. This includes living onsite during the summer season. Must be able to provide valid identification for employment eligibility verification. Must possess a valid driver's license and have access to reliable transportation. A clean driving record is required to meet YMCA insurance standards. Travel between site locations, and to off-site meetings and events may be required. Must reside in the Camp Sea Gull/Camp Seafarer/Camp Kanata service area. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
