Camp Director | Summer Youth Leadership & Academic Enrichment Camp (Grades 1–8)

Project Pathfinder – Summer Camp Director (1st - 8th Graders)

Central Alabama Marines-Council

Camp Location: Indian Village Springs, Shelby County, Alabama
Job Type: Seasonal (W-2 Employee, Non-Exempt)
Schedule: Full-Time (8 hours/day, weekdays; additional hours as needed)
Program Dates: May 26-29 (staff orientation & training), June 1–26, and July 6–24, 2026
Compensation: $30–$35 per hour, based on experience and qualifications

Executive Overview

Project Pathfinder is a mission-driven summer camp serving military- and veteran-connected youth in the greater Birmingham region. This no-cost program combines academic enrichment, leadership development, athletics, and character education to prevent summer learning loss and promote measurable growth.

The Summer Camp Director is the senior on-site leader responsible for delivering a safe, structured, and high-quality camp experience for approximately 60 campers in grades 1–8.

About Central Alabama Marines-Council

Central Alabama Marines-Council is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to youth development, leadership training, academic enrichment, and strengthening community partnerships across Central Alabama.

The organization's programming is built around four Lines of Effort:

• Leadership Development
• Advocacy
• Educational Programming
• Preservation of Military Traditions

About Project Pathfinder

Project Pathfinder is a multi-season initiative designed to expand youth development and resilience-building opportunities through:

• Summer Youth Education & Enrichment Camp
• Winter Community Service Project
• Spring Resilience & Teambuilding Challenge

The summer program integrates structured academics, leadership training, physical activity, and community engagement in a safe and inclusive environment.

Position Summary

The Camp Director reports directly to the President of Central Alabama Marines-Council and oversees all daily camp operations, including program delivery, staff supervision, safety, and participant experience.

This role requires strong leadership, organization, and the ability to actively engage with youth while maintaining a safe, structured, and positive environment.

Key Responsibilities

Program Leadership & Execution

• Lead daily camp operations across both summer sessions
• Implement structured, age-appropriate programming including academics, STEAM, leadership, and recreation
• Actively participate in and lead games, activities, and instruction
• Ensure program quality, consistency, and alignment with organizational goals

Staff Supervision & Development

• Supervise camp staff, instructors, and volunteers
• Provide clear direction, training, and daily briefings/debriefings
• Model effective leadership, behavior management, and activity facilitation
• Provide ongoing feedback and support staff performance

Camper Safety & Supervision

• Maintain constant supervision and accountability of all campers
• Ensure appropriate staff-to-camper ratios at all times
• Know the location and status of all participants during activities and transitions
• Monitor camper well-being, including hydration, sun protection, and physical safety
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe program environment

Behavior Management & Youth Support

• Use appropriate, consistent discipline techniques
• Promote a positive, respectful, and inclusive environment
• Address behavioral concerns promptly and professionally

Risk Management & Incident Response

• Enforce safety procedures and emergency protocols
• Identify and mitigate potential risks in activities and environments
• Document and report all incidents, injuries, and concerns in a timely manner

Youth Protection & Compliance

• Maintain appropriate boundaries with youth at all times
• Complete required safety and abuse prevention training
• Report any suspected misconduct or policy violations
• Ensure all staff and volunteers meet screening and training requirements

Program Coordination & Partnerships

• Coordinate with community partners, vendors, and program providers
• Plan and oversee offsite activities, including logistics and safety
• Support scheduling and execution of all program components

Communication & Reporting

• Build strong relationships with campers, families, and staff
• Communicate regularly with leadership regarding program status
• Track attendance, participation, and key performance indicators
• Support weekly updates and a final program report

Qualifications

Required

• Minimum age: 21 years
• 3+ years of experience in youth programs, education, or camp leadership
• Prior supervisory experience
• Strong communication, organization, and leadership skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, active environment
• Successful completion of background and child safety screenings

Preferred

• American Camp Association Camp Director Certificate, or Day Camp Director Certificate
• Alabama Teaching Certification (active or recently held), strongly preferred
• Experience with academic enrichment or assessment tools
• Experience coordinating group activities or field trips

Certifications (Required or Obtainable Before Start)

• CPR / First Aid / AED
• Required safety and youth protection training

Core Competencies

• Clear and effective communication
• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills
• Sound judgment and decision-making
• Commitment to safety and program quality
• Ability to build positive relationships with youth and families
• Reliability, professionalism, and adaptability

Physical & Work Requirements

• Ability to actively participate in games, sports, and outdoor activities
• Ability to stand and remain active for extended periods
• Ability to lift up to 35 lbs, as needed
• Maintain awareness and supervision of children at all times
• Work in indoor and outdoor environments, including summer weather conditions

Schedule & Availability

• Limited planning hours in May 2026
• Required availability during:
  • June 1–26, 2026
  • July 6–24, 2026

Additional hours may be required for planning, training, or special events.

Compensation & Classification

This is a seasonal, non-exempt W-2 position paid hourly. Overtime eligibility applies in accordance with applicable labor laws.

Due to the temporary and seasonal nature of this role, this position is not eligible for employer-sponsored benefits, including medical, dental, vision, retirement plans, or paid leave, unless otherwise required by applicable law.

Compliance & Employment Conditions

• Employment is contingent upon successful background screening and verification of credentials
• Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities
• Employees must follow all organizational policies, including safety and conduct expectations

Equal Opportunity Employer

Central Alabama Marines-Council is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building an inclusive and diverse team. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including veterans and military family members.

Application Process

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.