Assistant Camp Director
Camp Zeke
Description
Position Summary:
The Assistant Director joins Camp Zeke's leadership team to shape our summer program, assist with managing our shoulder season retreats, find awesome staff, and keep things running smoothly. This role requires a mix of leadership skills, a passion for great customer service, and facility oversight. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced, fun environment, working collaboratively to ensure campers, retreat guests, and staff experience a memorable, enriching, and positive environment.
Location: Lakewood, PA (Onsite April to mid-November; Remote During Winter)
About Camp Zeke:
Camp Zeke is an independent Jewish overnight camp dedicated to celebrating healthy, active living through amazing food, awesome sports, fitness that feels good, and culinary arts! Situated on 560 beautiful acres in Northeastern Pennsylvania, Camp Zeke welcomes over 500 children each summer and hosts various retreat groups and family camps throughout the spring and fall. We're seeking a dynamic and forward-thinking leader who is detail-oriented and organized to join our year-round leadership team in a multifaceted role encompassing both camp program and retreat center management.
Key Responsibilities:
Summer Camp Program & Operations
Program Development: Design, plan, and implement the summer activity schedule, including epic special events, creative theme days, staff appreciation programs, and orientation. Oversee programmatic elements to ensure engaging and structured activities. Collaborate with camper and staff care, food service, maintenance and facilities teams on program implementation.
Staff Coordination: Create staff rotations and daily schedules; lead a team of program heads, assisting them in lesson planning, supply organization, and program execution.
Leadership & Safety: Collaborate with the Camp Director to maintain a safe, supportive and inclusive environment for campers and staff, ensuring all health and safety protocols are adhered to.
Retreat Center Management
Sales & Marketing: Show off our space to prospective retreat groups, connect with potential client organizations, attend fairs, and assist in creating engaging monthly newsletters and marketing materials.
Pre-Retreat Planning: Assist groups with event planning, staffing needs, and menu coordination. Handle retreat-specific logistics, including housing assignments, space allocation, and program development in coordination with group leaders.
Onsite Retreat Management: Oversee retreat setup, liaise with maintenance for specific needs, and ensure cleanliness and functionality of facilities. Welcome groups, provide support throughout their stay, and ensure food service and other needs are met.
Preparation & Upkeep: Ensure the facility is prepared for each retreat and review essential systems (heating, air conditioning, plumbing) in coordination with the facility supervisor. Work with the maintenance team to address any issues that arise during retreats or the camp season.
Damage & Incident Management: Inspect facilities for damages post-retreat and coordinate necessary repairs and maintenance with appropriate teams.
Seasonal Staff Recruitment, Hiring & Supervision
Hiring Process: Manage recruitment efforts, including job postings, outreach to colleges and other organizations, and managing staffing fairs. Follow up on staff leads, conduct pre-interview screening, and manage references.
Staff Management: Confirm staff dates, conduct orientation, update staff records, and coordinate with HR for paperwork follow-up. Actively engage returning staff.
In-Season Management: During the camp season, provide day-to-day support and leadership to staff, address any performance concerns, and foster a positive, collaborative work environment.
Year-Round Marketing, Recruitment & Community Engagement
Outreach & Tours: Give tours to prospective camper families and retreat groups, conduct outreach, and help with marketing efforts, including newsletters, digital campaigns, and representing Camp Zeke at recruitment fairs.
Community Engagement: Maintain positive, proactive communication with camper families, retreat clients, and community partners to build strong relationships and promote Camp Zeke's mission.