Site Manager - Summer 2027 (21+)

Job Description

Job Description

Trailside Discovery Camp is an award-winning 10 week summer camp for local Alaskans ages 5-14 that offers environmental education, high adventure day programs, and overnight trips that take campers into Alaska’s wilderness. 

Our 2027 Summer Camp season will run from June 1, 2027, through August 6, 2027, with Daily Pop-Up Camp and Kinder Camp daily sessions running August 9th-18th, 2027 . In-person staff training will take place May 24-28, 2027 , during the week prior to the start of camp. Additional virtual training opportunities will begin in mid-April (dates TBD).

Camp Locations (preferences to be discussed in the interview process but not guaranteed):

• Kincaid Park
• 2nd Anchorage location TBA
• Birchwood Elementary (Eagle River)

Individuals unable to commit to working the full summer are encouraged to apply, and accommodations can be discussed for consideration during interviews with the Camp Director. Manager training is mandatory for new managers and typically takes place the week before in person staff training. Managers are encouraged to arrive early enough to help lead camp staff training sessions. 

Positions Summary

The Site Manager is responsible for the overall daily operation of an assigned camp location. This position provides leadership and support to all site staff, oversees camper and staff safety, serves as the primary point of contact for families, and ensures that camp programs are delivered in a safe, organized, and high-quality manner.

Site Managers work closely with the Year Round Leadership team and other managers to coordinate staff, resources, transportation, communication, and daily operations while fostering a positive and inclusive camp culture.

Key Responsibilities

Site Leadership & Staff Management

• Provide daily leadership, supervision, and support to Program Managers, Behavior Specialists, Lead Instructors, and Assistant Instructors.
• Foster a positive, collaborative, and professional team culture.
• Create and manage staff schedules, balancing program needs and staff availability.
• Support staff in resolving challenges related to campers, families, programming, and logistics.
• Conduct regular staff check-ins and facilitate site communication.
• Lead portions of staff training, onboarding, and ongoing professional development.
• Prepare for and facilitate weekly staff meetings.
• Provide coaching, mentoring, and support to staff members.
• Mediate conflicts involving campers, staff, and families when necessary.
• Support staff with behavior management strategies and camper accommodations.
• Assist with performance coaching and documentation when needed.

Safety & Risk Management

• Ensure the safety and well-being of campers and staff at all times.
• Maintain compliance with camp policies, licensing requirements, and American Camp Association standards.
• Monitor camper-to-staff ratios and ensure appropriate supervision is maintained throughout the day.
  
• Respond appropriately to emergencies, accidents, illnesses, injuries, wildlife encounters, and other site-related incidents
  
• Support staff in implementing behavior management and safety procedures.
• Oversee the proper administration and documentation of camper medications, incidents, and emergency protocols.

Communication

• Communicate daily and elevate evolving camp needs and observations with the Year Round Trailside Leadership Team.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for parents and guardians at the site.
• Communicate professionally with families through email, phone calls, text messaging platforms, and in-person interactions.
• Address parent concerns promptly and work collaboratively toward positive solutions.
• Build strong relationships with campers and families to support a welcoming camp community.
• Coordinate with guest speakers, community partners, park staff, and other organizations to ensure successful programming and site operations.

Operations & Logistics

• Coordinate daily site operations in partnership with the Program Manager and Logistics Manager.
• Ensure staff have access to the equipment, supplies, and resources needed to run successful programs.
• Oversee field trip logistics, transportation plans, and special events.
• Coordinate resource sharing among camp locations when necessary.
• Monitor program equipment and site resources to ensure safe and appropriate use.
• Support transportation operations, including camp van usage, when required and authorized.

Administration & Records Management

• Maintain accurate camp records and site documentation (communication, incidents, financial, etc.)
• Ensure attendance, check-in, and check-out procedures are completed accurately.
• Assist with registration support and enrollment management as needed.
• Protect the confidentiality of camper, family, and staff information.

Environmental Stewardship

• Model environmental stewardship and responsible outdoor recreation practices including Leave No Trace principles
• Uphold the mission and values of Trailside Discovery Camp and the Alaska Center Education Fund.
• Foster an inclusive camp culture that encourages curiosity, respect, and connection to Alaska's natural environments.

Qualifications
Minimum Requirements

• Available for the duration of the summer season.
• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Valid driver's license and clean driving record.
• Experience supervising staff, leading teams, or managing programs.
• Experience working with children in a camp, educational, recreation, or youth development setting.
• Experience in environmental education, outdoor education, environmental sciences, or a related field.
• Current First Aid and CPR certification, or ability to obtain certification before the start of camp.
• Confidence operating a 15-passenger van and towing a trailer or willingness to learn.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience managing youth programs, camps, or recreation programs.
• College coursework or a degree in education, environmental science, recreation, nonprofit management, or a related field.
• Knowledge of Alaskan ecology, wildlife, and environmental topics.
• Experience with high-adventure activities such as hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, archery, or camping.
• Experience coordinating logistics, transportation, or large group operations.

Personal Skills

• Strong leadership and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent interpersonal and conflict-resolution skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with children, families, staff, and community partners.
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and creating welcoming outdoor spaces for all participants.
• Self-motivated, adaptable, and solutions-oriented.
  

Physical Requirements

• Ability to spend significant portions of the workday outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to walk, hike, stand, and actively supervise camp activities for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry camp supplies, equipment, and materials.
• Ability to safely operate camp vehicles when authorized.
• Ability to respond quickly and effectively during emergencies.

Training & Attendance Expectations

• Attend all required pre-season staff training and preparation days.
• Assist with planning and facilitating staff training.
• Attend and lead portions of regular staff meetings throughout the summer.
• Complete all required certifications, onboarding, and administrative requirements.
• Fulfill the full summer employment commitment as outlined in the employment agreement.
• Follow all Trailside Discovery Camp policies, procedures, and safety standards.