4-H Primitive Pursuits Program & Camp Director

Cornell Cooperative Extension•Ithaca, NY

About The Position

The 4-H Primitive Pursuits Program and Camp Director provides both operational and administrative support for year-round programming, including weekend pre/teen programs, homeschool and adult programs, after-school activities, and school break programs. This role involves managing the program budget, ensuring financial stability, and acting as a liaison between marketing, administration, and field staff to maintain continuity. The director is also responsible for overseeing the 4-H Primitive Pursuits Summer Camp, which includes managing camp preparation, camper registration, class scheduling, and billing. Additionally, the director serves as the main point of contact for campers, parents, the Issue Leader, the Executive Director, Human Resources, and camp staff. The director also supervises seasonal summer camp staff, volunteers, and campers, ensuring the health and safety of all participants. This position requires a combination of administrative oversight, program coordination, and leadership to ensure the success and smooth operation of both the school year programs and camp. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The work requires some physical exertion such as long periods of standing; walking over rough, uneven, or rocky surfaces; recurring bending, crouching, stooping, stretching, reaching or similar activities.

Requirements

Required Qualifications:
Master’s degree in camp administration, youth development, education or related educational field.
2 years volunteer or related work experience.
Must have a valid driver's license.
Must be over the age of 25.
Ability to clearly communicate (speak, read and write proficiently) in English.
Ability to transport/move supplies and equipment and climb stairs with or without reasonable accommodation.
Ability to work long hours, in an outdoor setting, requiring regular physical activity as well as standing and sitting for long periods.
Outstanding communication and teamwork skills.
Demonstrated ability to create and maintain complex databases of information.
Ability to plan, originate, organize, and carry out daily and special programs with minimal supervision
Experience managing staff and creating age-appropriate lesson plans in a wide range of instructional areas such as physical education, art, theatre and academic enrichment.
Demonstrated experience in effective supervision and management with ability to supervise, train and motivate staff of all ages and levels of experience.
Ability to interact with camp families and the general public in a professional manner at all times.
Proficiency with windows-based software including use of the internet and Microsoft Office Suite including Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Publisher, and Excel.
Ability to follow oral and written instructions and assume responsibility with general guidelines and direction.
Ability to communicate effectively through verbal, written and visual channels using traditional methods and educational tools, as well as electronic technology (e.g., video, audio, computers, etc.).
Ability to effectively participate in professional team efforts.
Ability and willingness to work with diverse audiences and maintain cultural sensitivity.
Ability to relate effectively to co-workers, advisors, community and professional leaders.
Strong interpersonal skills with proven ability to work effectively with advisory boards and committees, community and funding partners.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team with internal and external partners at multiple levels within organizations and across communities.
Ability to initiate, plan, organize, implement, teach, and evaluate informal educational programs.
Ability to identify and utilize program resources from the organization and the community.
Ability to meet travel requirements associated with this position.
Ability to meet acceptable background check standards including successfully passing Department of Health Central Register Database.
Ability to work flexible hours which will include evenings and/or weekends, as appropriate.

Nice To Haves

Preferred Qualifications:
Knowledge of the American Camp Association guidelines and standards.
Knowledge of NYS Health Department regulations.
Experience with Cooperative Extension or other similar educational organizations.
Ability to obtain Advanced First Aid & CPR/AED certifications, and other certifications that may become required for the position as needed to meet Tompkins County and New York State youth camp standards.
Excellent understanding of Environmental/Conservation/Outdoor Recreation Education.
Strong teaching skills and group facilitation skills.
Ability to obtain Lifeguard Certifications and certification as a Lifeguarding instructor with ability to certify others.
Experience with web site support/maintenance.

Responsibilities

PROGRAM RESPONSIBILITIES
Program Development – 15%
Apply subject matter knowledge to develop 4-H Primitive Pursuits educational programs, strategies, and materials to address the unique needs of the camp program environment using proven educational methodologies within scope of the Association Plan of Work and are within the mission of Cornell Cooperative Extension.
Actively assist and guide the development of new programs with program and administrative staff to extend our reach to new audiences.
Research, identify and select existing resources for camp and program use.
Develop relationships with committees, partner agencies, organizations, industries, community leaders and other stakeholders to obtain their assistance in program development and ensure that stakeholders are engaged in the program development process.
Make programmatic changes in program development based on program evaluation outcomes.
Maintain linkages with Cornell University faculty, program unit and State Camp Specialist for program development guidance.
Ensure program development is within the scope of Association and statewide plans of work.
Program Delivery – 15%
Provide 4-H Primitive Pursuits Camp educational programming to targeted audiences.
Provide 4-H Primitive Pursuits educational programming to targeted audiences.
Deliver information about 4-H Primitive Pursuits Camp and Educational Programs to community members through formal and informal networks, such as through relevant committees, community groups, networking, formal presentations, etc.
Deliver educational programs and events to the community and in the camp setting that address local, regional and statewide camp programming priorities utilizing a variety of educational methods which may include direct teaching, group experiences, media, newsletters, electronic technology, internet, and distance learning.
Deliver educational “train the trainer” programming to seasonal camp staff and volunteers, including but not limited to pre-season and in-service trainings, workshops, individual consultations, electronic and digital media presentations.
Serve as subject matter expert in the areas of 4-H Primitive Pursuits Camp for staff, volunteers, participants, community organizations, campers, parents, general public, and other camp professionals working within the county and the region.
Represent Cornell Cooperative Extension before the public, community leaders, government officials, Cornell or other land grant universities as part of program delivery.
Ensure program delivery is within the scope of the Association and statewide plans of work.
Program Evaluation – 5%
Develop program evaluation framework and tools to measure program impacts and gain input/insight for continuous improvement.
Interact with program participants, youth/campers, parents, camp staff, volunteers, community members and funders to collect evaluation data for improving programs as directed by Supervisor.
Interpret evaluation data for reporting and program improvement purposes using standard, established policy, procedure and methods.
Make recommendations to the relevant constituencies including Executive Director, Board of Directors, Cornell faculty, county, and community leaders.
ADMINISTRATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES
Direction – 20%
Plan the delivery of established 4-H Primitive Pursuits Camp and educational program goals.
Develop educational strategies to meet the needs of youth/campers and special interest groups.
Plan the structure of delivering 4-H Primitive Pursuits Camp programs via various methods to efficiently meet established program goals.
Provide leadership for the development of camp and program staffing plans that support seasonal educational programming efforts.
Develop program recruitment and marketing strategies with Communications Coordinator.
Assist in identifying community and fiscal resources for program continuance and enhancement.
Actively maintain and oversee budget for 4-H Primitive Pursuits Camp and Programs budget development process.
Assist in enhancing/expanding relationships with appropriate agencies, organizations, schools and community leaders for the program.
Assist with development of camper and program recruitment and enrollment processes including online registration, online health documents, required forms and permissions, and parent information.
Assist in identifying and developing relationships with appropriate agencies, organizations, industries and community leaders for program/function.
Management – 25%
Provide supervision, direction, and evaluation of seasonal camp staff providing constructive feedback and overall performance management while fostering the development of confidence and competence in program delivery and interaction with diverse audiences.
Support the staff in maintaining inclusivity in all camp activities and functions.
Direct, supervise, and evaluate program staff.
Provide constructive feedback and overall performance management.
Foster the development of confidence and competence in program delivery and interaction with diverse audiences.
Support the staff in maintaining inclusivity in all camp activities and functions.
Act as the Primitive Pursuits point person for the 4-H Sr. Administrative Assistant regarding camper registrations, registration processes and camper accounts.
Provide direction, assistance and as needed training for the 4-H Sr. Administrative Assistant to ensure a cohesive message across all communication platforms.
Effectively allocate human resources to accomplish program objective based on established staffing plan.
Ensure volunteer direction and management procedures are followed according to established policies and procedures (VIP) by providing guidance, leadership and resources for volunteers and volunteer leaders including recruitment, screening, orientation, training, evaluation, and management.
Serve as a committee member on the 4-H Program Advisory Committee.
Effectively managing program budget allocations within the scope of the overall budget.
Assist in identifying ways to reduce costs and maximize existing resources within the Association.
Monitor program income/expense to ensure the spending is within the program budget constraint.
Manage and resolve issues related to compliance with the Summer Camp Permit with the County Health Department.
Solve problems and resolve conflicts that arise in the operation of the Association, utilizing appropriate policies and procedures, seeking advice and guidance as necessary.
Ensure that all required civil rights and employment information is posted clearly at camp.
Assist with identifying, anticipating, recommending and planning for program needs/supplies.
Monitor 4-H Primitive Pursuits educational programs to ensure activities are within the scope of Association and statewide plans of work.
Coordination/Operation – 15%
Act as point of contact and knowledgeable liaison for campers, parents, seasonal and year-round camp staff, Association staff and Human Resources.
Respond to general requests for information about camp programs/activities, paperwork/registration requirements for campers, seasonal employment, etc.
Provide oversight and support of year-round program coordinators and administrative staff including but not limited to; Communications Coordinator, 4-H Sr. Administrative Assistant, etc.
Submit the Summer Camp Permit with the County Health Department.
Working with Human Resources, direct all aspects of recruiting and hiring seasonal staff.
Ensure all files, paperwork, background screens, and communication has occurred in accordance with established policies and procedures.
Working with the 4-H Sr. Administrative Assistant, aid with camper recruitment and enrollment processes.
Coordinate and facilitate efficient summer weekly on-site registration check-in and check-out processes.
Prepare and maintain program data management system which includes camper registration, correspondence, class/activity scheduling, group assignments, confirmations and billings.
Review participant scholarship applications and award funds accordingly based on available budget.
Coordinate, schedule, and facilitate seasonal camp and program staff meetings.
Coordinate and facilitate the work of volunteers in implementing events related to established program priorities.
Generate statistical data for annual camp and program reports by using existing reporting framework.
Maintain accurate files and records for camp to include the NYS Health Department, camper and staff files, insurance and accident records, and other related programs files.
Provide direction to the 4-H Sr. Administrative Assistant in the preparation of camp reports and records including camper registration lists, health forms, emergency contact, camper cards and weekly statistics.
Assist with securing information, as necessary.
Assist Communication Coordinator with coordinating camp marketing efforts including camp brochure and website updates. marketing, publicity and promotion of the camp by creating, proofreading and distributing flyers, brochures, etc.
Assist with maintaining camp program supplies/inventory and assist with purchasing of supplies, as necessary.
Assist Supervisor and facilities staff with coordination and preparation for annual inspections and open house.
Assist Supervisor with coordinating and facilitating affirmative action/EEO compliant hiring procedures to include position advertisements, position announcements, review of applications, conducting interviews, conducting background/DMV screenings, and maintenance of search files, etc. to meet the Association and system requirements.
Maintain seasonal camp staff personnel files per established procedures and protocol, including records retention, to be in compliance with all state and federal laws, and Cornell Cooperative Extension and University policies and procedures.
Working closely with HR, coordinate and implement on-boarding for seasonal camp hires including completion and filing of Form I-9, providing orientation and benefits guidance in compliance with established policies and procedures.
Maintain communication with families in order to effectively manage programs to meet the needs of individual participants.
Handle other 4-H Primitive Pursuits Camp administrative tasks as deemed necessary.
Prepare and submit expense reports and/or vouchers in a timely manner according to the established policy and procedures.
Ensure complete confidentiality of sensitive information regarding all campers and staff, at all times.
Provide data and information to assist with preparation of reports, impact statements, and success stories for funders, advisory committees, Board and others as requested.
Submit accurate program related expense and mileage reports in a timely manner as required.
Transport self, program participants and/or program materials/resources as necessary as part of performing position responsibilities.
Actively serve on appropriate local, regional, state and/or national committees/task forces that support overall educational and organizational efforts of the Cornell Cooperative Extension system.
Effectively maintain existing professional relationships with other agencies, organizations and businesses to facilitate continued programming efforts.
Professional Improvement – 5%
In cooperation with Supervisor and/or Executive Director, jointly develop and pursue a professional development plan as a means to increase competencies relative to position accountabilities and to address changes and Association priorities.
Collaborate in activities that are in general support of Cornell Cooperative Extension and perform other duties as assigned.
Health and Safety – Applied to all duties and functions
Support the Association to maintain a safe working environment.
Be familiar with and strive to follow any applicable federal, state, local regulations, Association health and safety policy/procedure/requirement and standard.
Act proactively to prevent accidents/injuries and communicate hazards to supervisors when identified.
EEO/EPO and Policy – Applied to all duties and functions
Appreciate and embrace diversity in all interactions with clientele, staff, volunteers and the public.
Assist the Cornell Cooperative Extension system in reaching out to diverse audiences.
Aware of, and adheres to, established Cornell Cooperative Extension Association of Tompkins County policies, procedures and Cornell Cooperative Extension Skills for Success.
Contribute to the overall success of the organization by performing all assigned duties in a professional, timely and accurate manner.