Assistant Camp Director - Summer Camp 2025

$26,000 - $31,200/Yr

The Indian Trails Camp - Grand Rapids, MI

Full-time - Entry Level

Grand Rapids, MI

Social Assistance

About the position

The Assistant Camp Director at Indian Trails Camp plays a crucial role in ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and enriching experience for campers with disabilities. This hands-on position involves supervising staff, engaging directly with campers, and coordinating daily activities while supporting the Camp Director in administrative tasks. The role is ideal for individuals passionate about working with people with disabilities in an active camp environment.

Responsibilities

• Directly oversee camp counselors and lead staff to ensure camper safety and enjoyment.
• Provide guidance, mentorship, and problem-solving support to staff in real-time.
• Assist in running the staff training week, focusing on disability awareness and safety protocols.
• Mediate conflicts among campers or staff, ensuring issues are addressed quickly and fairly.
• Help coordinate transportation, meals, and special events for orientation and staff outings.
• Actively participate in supervising daily activities, ensuring programming is inclusive and adaptive.
• Build meaningful relationships with campers, understanding their individual needs and goals.
• Assist with personal care needs of campers, including mobility assistance and hygiene.
• Handle emergency situations with calm and professionalism.
• Serve as a liaison between staff, campers, and the Camp Director, ensuring seamless communication.
• Provide regular updates to the Camp Director on camp activities and camper concerns.
• Collaborate with the Director in implementing policies and risk management strategies.
• Ensure all safety protocols are followed, including those related to medical needs and dietary restrictions.
• Work closely with the Camp Nurse to ensure the health and well-being of all campers.
• Participate in daily health checks and medication administration.

Requirements

• Minimum of 2-3 years working in a camp setting or with individuals with disabilities.
• Bachelor's degree in Special Education, Recreation, Social Work, or related field preferred.
• Strong interpersonal skills to foster positive relationships with campers and staff.
• Excellent problem-solving and conflict-resolution abilities.
• Ability to stay calm and act decisively in high-pressure situations.
• Familiarity with adaptive recreation and therapeutic programming.
• Certifications in First Aid, CPR, and any relevant safety certifications.

Nice-to-haves

• Supervisory experience in a camp setting.
• Experience with adaptive recreation and disability services.

Benefits

• Living quarters in a private cabin during camp sessions.
• All meals provided during summer camp sessions.
• Free parking/storage if needed.