Summer Camp Half-Day Camp Director (part-time)

Description:

Incorporated in 1955 and encompassing more than 454 acres, the Mt. Prospect Park District provides outstanding recreational programs, events, parks, facilities and services. With seven primary facilities and 27 neighborhood parks, the Park District is an integral part of a thriving multi-generational community. District open space includes two outdoor pools, biking and walking paths, a dog park, and sizable space for outdoor athletic programming. The District covers over 11 square miles and serves a region of over a quarter million residents in Mount Prospect and surrounding communities. The Mt. Prospect Park District is a proud recipient of the 2026 Illinois Parks and Recreation Association Exceptional Workplace Award!

We are searching for a part-time Summer Camp Half-Day Camp Director for the District’s 2026 summer half-day camp program! Under the direct supervision of the Youth Program Supervisor, the Summer Camp Half-Day Camp Director is responsible for administrative duties, managing day camp staff and supervision of the full-day campers. The Summer Camp Half-Day Director also implements day-to-day operations and provides daily camp curriculum.

The District’s 2026 summer camp season runs from June 2nd through August 7th. The Summer Camp Half-Day Camp Director must be available to work Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM-1:30 PM for a set work schedule. A maximum of 5 (unpaid) days off allowed during the 2026 summer camp season. Additionally, the Summer Camp Half- Day Camp Director must be at least 21 years old, or turn 21 during summer camp session dates. Applicants who are 21 years or older must possess a valid Driver’s License, age 21+, in order to operate MPPD vehicles. Also must be and be able to successfully pass a criminal background check.

The starting pay for the Assistant Camp Director/Camp Director is $18 per hour. Plus we offer park district facility benefits.

Please see the information below for a more detailed description of the essential job duties and job qualifications.

Requirements:

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

Must be available to work Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM-1:30 PM for a set work schedule. Camp runs June 2nd through August 7th. A maximum of 5 (unpaid) days off are allowed during the 2026 Summer Camp season.

• Responsible for the supervision, safety and recreational programming for the campers as well as camp staff.

• Maintain a commitment to the development of each child’s self-esteem by providing a safe, fun, and nurturing environment through age-appropriate activities, crafts, and games.

Attend all preseason planning sessions, training and staff meetings beginning early May for Director positions.

Attend and supervise campers and staff on field trips and/or outings, including the one in-house swim day per week.

• Perform daily camp preparation and closing procedures. Provide weekly camp plans to the Youth Program Supervisor and to parents.

Swim with and be attentive with the children when at the pool.

• Enforce camp rules and implement behavior management plans.

• Manage parent expectations and requests.

• Assist in determining supply and equipment needs.

Administer basic first aid, when required.

Be familiar with the safety operations of any equipment necessary in accomplishing required tasks.

Be familiar with and abide by Park District policies and procedures.

SECONDARY DUTIES:

Dress in appropriate camp attire in accordance with District policies. District-issued lanyards are required to be worn at all times.

Limit use of cell phones to emergencies only.

Transport participants in District vehicles when required.

• Maintain a neat and orderly work environment, return supplies and equipment to the appropriate location when finished.

• Perform additional functions as assigned, which may be considered essential.

All other duties as assigned by the Youth Program Supervisor, Early Childhood and Youth Manager, Director of Recreation and /or Executive Director; however, in an emergency, perform all other duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Must possess a minimum of 4 years of day camp program development and supervision experience.

Must be at least 21 years old, or turn 21 during summer camp session dates. Applicants who are 21 years or older must possess a valid Driver’s License, age 21+, in order to operate MPPD vehicles.

Must be CPR/AED certified, or become CPR/AED certified within the first month of employment.

Must be able to speak loudly and clearly in a large group setting.

Must be able to care, work and relate to children.

Must be able to provide a high level of communication to staff, participants and external customers.

Must be able to work with general direction from an immediate supervisor.

Must possess the capacity to work and maintain composure during periods of high activity and in emergency situations.

Must possess the capacity to follow through on tasks to completion.

Must be able to work in a team atmosphere, promoting positive work relationships with supervisors and coworkers.

Must be able to demonstrate leadership qualities to perform required work. Must possess the capacity to be self- motivated and achieve assigned goals.

Must possess a high level of energy, social skills, initiative and enthusiasm.

Must demonstrate good judgment and discretion. Must be able to work cooperatively with others.

Must be proficient in MS Office, Google Workspace, database software, internet and website portals.

Physical Requirements: The Summer Camp Half-Day Director will be required to regularly squat down to child’s level, stand and walk for a lengthy amount of time, sit in child-size chairs, lift 20+ pounds and demonstrate large/small motor movements. Additionally, the Summer Camp Half-Day Director may be exposed to outdoor weather conditions, including sun, wind, humidity, rain and hot/cold temperatures.

Due to the needs of the Park District, evening and weekend hours could be required. Your work schedule may vary and work week may exceed regular work hours at times but will not exceed 1,000 hours per year. Regular and reliable attendance is an essential job function of this position.

Nothing contained herein shall preclude or limit the Park District from changing this written job description through addition, deletion or modification of essential job duties.

The Mt. Prospect Park District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.