Job Information
Science Systems and Applications, Inc. VASFA Camp Director in Wallops Island, Virginia
Science Systems and Applications Inc (SSAI) is seeking a Camp Director to Lead the Space Adventure Camp team at the Virginia Space Flight Academy (VASFA), located at NASA Wallops Flight FacilityThe Camp Director of Space Adventure Camp is responsible for managing, administrating, and supervising all aspects of the summer camp operation. This includes planning and executing engaging activities related to space exploration, ensuring the safety and well-being of campers and staff, and fostering a positive and inclusive camp community. The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills, experience in camp management, and a passion for space science and education. This is a temporary position. Pre and Post Camp are telework. Position is on-site during the 8 week camp program; Food and Lodging are provided.
Key Responsibilities
- Program Development and Implementation:
Implement and evaluate a comprehensive camp program that meets the needs and interests of the camp's target populations and ensures its delivery in a safe and high-quality manner.
Provides staff and campers with a safe, secure, and quality experience that aligns with the camp goals and educational objectives by creating a positive, fun-filled environment while adhering to state, local, CDC, ACN, ACA, and the camp's administration's protocols and requirements for overnight camp operations.
Coordinate daily camp schedules, including field trips, curriculum and activity time, meals, and behind-the-scenes tours with NASA, NOAA, Rocket Lab, and Virginia Spaceport Authority.
Collaborate with camp instructors to enhance camp curriculum and technology on aerospace, coding, and robotics topics.
Research, plan, and facilitate a comprehensive staff training week in partnership with camp leadership that includes instruction and training of camp counselors on topics including safety, standard operating procedures, communicating disease protocols, medication management, and camp curriculum.
Complete professional development training through the American Camp Association as assigned.
Seek and analyze input from campers, families, and staff regarding the program's quality, safety, and enjoyment
- Staff Management and Supervision
Assist with recruitment and hiring of camp staff.
Supervise and evaluate all camp staff.
Create and manage staff schedules.
Ensure staff follow camp protocols, guidelines, and requirements and meet the highest possible standards.
Create a positive and supportive environment for camp staff by proactively identifying needs and facilitating solutions.
Foster a positive work environment that promotes teamwork, creativity, and accountability.
Participate enthusiastically in most camp activities, supporting and guiding those assigned as leaders.
Maintain clear and positive written and verbal communication with camp staff.
Provide ongoing support, feedback, and professional development opportunities for team members.
Observe staff behavior and apply appropriate management techniques.
Conduct weekly pre and post-camp staff meetings.
- Camper Safety and Well-Being
Update camp procedures and safety protocols and develop crisis and risk management procedures in accordance with camp standards and regulations.
Oversee camper profiles, forms, and waivers.
Monitor camper health and well-being and coordinate with medical professionals as needed.
Work with camp staff to address camper behavior, assess its appropriateness, enforce appropriate safety regulations and emergency procedures, and apply proper behavior management techniques.
- Parent and Community Relations
Be an exemplary role model by displaying a positive attitude, interest, and motivation while working with staff, campers, other team members, and community partners.
Serve as the primary point of contact for parents, guardians, and other stakeholders.
Communicate regularly with families to provide updates on activities, policies, and procedures before and during camp operation.
Maintain a professional working relationship with all partnering organizations, including NASA, NOAA, Rocket Lab, Virginia Spaceport Authority, and various community and business partners.
Build positive relationships to promote the camp.
- Financial Management
Manage the camp supplies and administrative budgets, ensuring fiscal responsibility and accountability.
Oversee camper registration and scholarship distribution.
Identify opportunities for revenue generation and cost-saving measures.
- Facilities and Resource Management
Manage inventory and procurement of supplies and materials.
Coordinate the use of camp facilities and resources, including accommodations, equipment, and transportation.
Facilitate the management and care of the physical facilities and equipment in all program areas.
Ensure all camp supplies and materials are stocked, maintained, and organized by staff throughout camp operations.
Ensure that all facilities are clean, safe, and well-maintained and program areas are kept free of hazards.
Implement risk management procedures.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in education, recreation management, or a related field and previous experience in camp administration, with at least 2 years in a leadership role or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Knowledge of space sciences with a passion for STEM education.
Works as a member of a team and completes tasks with minimal supervision.
Ensures the health and safety of the campers and staff is a priority.
Display maturity of judgment and behavior.
Current CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to environmental and other hazards related to the activity.
Physical ability to respond appropriately to situations requiring first aid. Must be able to assist campers in an emergency (fire, evacuation, illness, or injury) and possess the strength and endurance required to maintain constant supervision of campers.
Ability to work in an outdoor environment in hot/humid conditions.
Willingness to live in a camp setting and work irregular hours.
Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must be able to pass a NASA and criminal background investigation.
Must pass drug and alcohol screen.
During pre-camp season work, must be able to work independently and remotely and travel to Wallops Island 2-3 times for inventory and camp planning (travel reimbursement provided).
Must work the entire 6-month summer camp operation, including the pre and post-camp season.
Work full-time during the summer camp season; other work-related activities are not permitted during camp operations as maximum flexibility is required.
Must possess a valid driver's license.
Maintain appropriate interpersonal and personal boundaries.
Adheres to VASFA safety protocols and requirements.
Upholds in a highly professional manner.
EOE, including disability/vets
Physical Requirements: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, and use hands to touch, handle or feel objects, tools or controls. The employee frequently is required to talk and hear and occasionally required to reach with hands and arms and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. Must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.