Day Camp Director - 4-H Camp Owahta - McGraw, NY

Day Camp Director Help build a summer at 4-H Camp Owahta that kids can’t stop talking about! 4-H Camp Owahta, owned and operated by the Cornell Cooperative Extension Association of Cortland County, is a vibrant 128-acre camp in McGraw, NY, complete with cabins, a rustic lodge, a waterfront, sports fields, and wooded trails. Each summer, the camp serves over 400 youth through its overnight and day camp programs. Overview The Day Camp Director is a key position within the summer leadership team. The Day Camp Director oversees operation, logistics and safety of the 4-H Camp Owahta day camp program. The Day Camp Director will work closely with the Assistant Camp Director and Outdoor Recreation Director to support successful, integrated overnight and day camp programs and ensure a high‑quality camper experience. Key Responsibilities Organize, complete and review paperwork and supervise counselor staff. Model and enforce all 4-H Camp Owahta, American Camp Association (ACA) and Department of Health (DOH) standards. Communicate with parents regarding camper behavior and/or needs; address camper behavior. Plan and lead programming and activity blocks; coordinate with staff for camper safety. Support the Outdoor Recreation Director and Assistant Camp Director in overseeing all aspects of managing, coordinating, and operating the day camp program. Maintain a safe environment for campers, staff, volunteers and families. Enforce policies and procedures according to DOH regulations and Camp Manual; enforce ACA industry standards. Supervise campers at all times; act as point person during medical emergencies or mental health crises. Assist in all areas of camp as needed—kitchen, cabins, program areas, waterfront, infirmary. Check campers in and out daily following procedures; communicate with parents as needed. Provide guidance, direction and support to staff regarding camper needs, conflict mediation, behavior and special concerns. Assist in developing and leading staff training week; create agendas and topics for staff meetings. Teach and role‑model a high‑quality program to staff. Coordinate staff schedules and supervision to maintain appropriate staff‑to‑camper ratios and adequate staff breaks. Check in regularly with staff to assess needs and communicate concerns to leadership. Evaluate staff progress; provide recommendations regarding performance and wellness. Assist campers with guidance and support—conflict mediation, personal hygiene, friendship building, independence. Serve as a positive role model; maintain positive rapport with campers, families, staff, volunteers and visitors. Plan and implement age‑appropriate lesson plans and leadership programs using research‑based 4-H curriculum. Assist in delivering and evaluating Leadership programs (LIT/CIT). Support accreditation and documentation requirements—maintain paperwork, daily logs, and documentation compliance. Participate in professional development and required training events. Perform other duties as assigned by the Outdoor Recreation Director. Position Details Full‑time exempt position, 100% FTE. Summer salary: $3,000.00 to $4,000.00 commensurate with experience. Required Qualifications At least 21 years of age. Bachelor’s degree as per New York State Department of Health requirements. Minimum six months of leadership experience in a summer camp setting or equivalent outdoor program for youth ages 5‑16. Attend and participate in all staff training and pre‑camp set‑up (June22‑July32026). Interest in working with youth and young adults, primarily outdoors. Receptiveness to guidance, supervision and feedback. Ability to build positive, approachable relationships with youth, parents, and staff. Willingness to work and live in the camp community and reside at 4‑H Camp Owahta for the entire season (July5‑August142026). Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends. Aware of and understanding of positive youth development principles. Demonstrated good character and integrity in professional settings. Preferred Qualifications Current CPR and First Aid certification from courses approved by the NYS Department of Health. Ability to effectively teach skills to staff members and campers ages 5‑16. Ability to adapt and remain flexible in dynamic environments. Demonstrated resilience and sound judgment during challenging or adverse situations. Enthusiasm and sense of humor. #J-18808-Ljbffr Cornell University