Description

Job Title: Day Camp Manager

Compensation: $1,112/week +5% for English and Spanish fluency

Housing: Yes, required

Dates of Employment: Summer (April - September or March - August)

Reporting to: Director of Programs

Direct Reports: Day Camp Asst Manager, Day Camp Coordinator, Day Camp Counselors

Position Summary:

The Day Camp Manager plays a key leadership role in shaping and delivering Keystone Science School’s Day Camp programs. This position ensures that every Day Camp experience is safe, engaging, and aligned with KSS’s mission and values.

In this role, you’ll guide the execution of Day Camp and Pathfinders programming. From welcoming campers in the morning, to overseeing budgets, supporting staff, and serving as an on-call leader, you’ll ensure programs run smoothly and intentionally. Working closely with other teams at KSS, you’ll help meet the evolving needs of campers and staff.

This is a seasonal position, with expected employment April - September. This position is required to live on campus.

Key Responsibilities:

Program Management

• Provide leadership and oversight for Day Camp and Pathfinders programs.
• Serve as an on-call leader for all programming throughout the summer.
• Manage and monitor program budgets to ensure cost-effective delivery.
• Work closely with external vendors and contractors that offer specialized services and education (rock climbing, horsemanship, etc.).
• Uphold safety standards, risk management procedures, and compliance with CO childcare and ACA  licensing requirements.
• Teach and facilitate programs on an as-needed basis.
• Support other summer programs (Overnight and Adventure) as needed.

Staff Management

• Recruit, train, schedule, and supervise Day Camp and Pathfinders staff.
• Lead staff meetings, foster a positive team culture, and ensure clear communication.
• Observe staff in the field, offering constructive feedback and modeling best practices in outdoor education, safety, and risk management.
• Support staff in addressing challenges related to campers, program delivery, or logistics.

Requirements

Skills 

• Ability to supervise, coach, and motivate seasonal staff while fostering an inclusive and positive camp culture.
• Strong skills in planning, organizing, and overseeing youth programs, with attention to safety, logistics, and camper experience.
• Ability to remain calm, flexible, and resourceful in fast-paced or high-pressure situations.
• Works effectively across departments and with leadership to achieve organizational goals.
• Understanding of best practices in camp programming, risk management, and experiential education.

Education, Experience and Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Recreation, Environmental Studies, Youth Development, or a related field preferred. Equivalent professional experience may be considered in place of a degree.
• Minimum 4 seasons of experience in camp management, outdoor education, or youth program coordination.
• Demonstrated experience supervising staff and managing youth programs.
• Experience with program logistics, scheduling, and risk management in outdoor or residential settings.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification required (or ability to obtain prior to start).
• Valid driver’s license and ability to drive 15-passenger vans (or willingness to complete training).
• Customer service or family communication experience strongly preferred.
• Wilderness First Responder (WFR) or Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certification is strongly preferred.
• Additional certifications (lifeguarding, archery, ropes course facilitation, etc.) a plus.

Physical Requirements 

• Dexterity, auditory and visual acuity to operate computers and phones or mobile devices.
• Auditory and visual acuity to interact with guests, sponsors, donors and clients on a daily basis.
• Able to work for long periods of time without break during the conduct of presentations and events.
• Able to lift 25 lbs. with minimal assistance.
• Able to successfully manage multiple, high priority tasks in a fast-paced environment.
   

Keystone Science School: Who We Are

Keystone Science School (KSS) ignites curiosity and critical thinking through hands-on, nature-based learning. Nestled at 9,200 feet in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, our 23-acre campus serves as a hub for immersive, inquiry-driven experiences. Since 1976, we have combined outdoor adventure with STEM education, empowering students, teachers, and communities. Our programs—including summer camps, school-based learning, and outdoor education—promote scientific exploration, leadership, and environmental stewardship. With log-style dorms, a dining hall, an outdoor amphitheater, and an observatory, KSS provides an inspiring setting for discovery.

Benefits for Seasonal Staff 

At KSS, our staff are essential to our mission. We are proud to offer rewarding benefits including professional development opportunities and those listed below. 

• Free meals and housing may be provided depending on position.
• Up to 48 paid sick hours.
• Paid holidays.
• Access to medical, dental, and vision benefits after four months of employment.
• Sick time, EAP (Employee Assistance Program), and FAMLI (Family and Medical Leave Insurance) are offered.
• Discounts to outdoor retailers and discounted ski pass opportunities.
   

Work Schedule and Environment

This position is primarily campus-based and outdoors-focused, generally operating on a Monday through Saturday schedule. During the summer season, work hours are 60+ hours per week to support camp operations.