Summer Camp Assistant Director

 

ABOUT OUR PROGRAM:

Rutabaga Toy Library’s Nature Arts Summer Camp offers a unique summer experience for children ages 4.5-12, combining key nature school principals in a small-group setting. Our mission is to foster a welcoming, engaging, and exploratory space where children can connect with nature and express their creativity through art made from found and natural materials. We are committed to sustainability, child-led activities, and providing a nurturing environment for our community of caregivers and families.

ABOUT THIS POSITION:

The Summer Camp Assistant Director (AD) is the daily on-site leader who keeps camp running smoothly, supports staff, and helps create a warm, steady, safe vibe for kids and families. This position requires a balance of administrative skills, leadership, and direct engagement with campers and staff. The AD will work closely with the Camp Director & the Camp Ops Lead to bring our vision for the summer to life!

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Run the Daily Flow: Lead setup, transitions, pacing, safety, and real-time decisions.

  • On-Site Lead: Serve as the go-to person for staff and parents during camp hours.

  • Staff Leadership: Supervise and coach the camp team (Lead Counselor, Afternoon Counselor, Junior Counselor, CITs) with clear, kind direction.

  • Program Implementation: Ensure weekly plans are carried out smoothly and aligned with our nature + creativity + sustainability vibe.

  • Operational Support: Partner with the Camp Director to handle daily logistics, troubleshoot issues, and keep the bar high for safety and engagement

SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS:

  • 2+ years in a summer camp setting, including a leadership role

  • Background/Interest in arts and environmental science/nature-based learning

  • Are comfortable directing a small team and giving feedback in the moment

  • Strong communication and relationship-building skills with campers, families, and teen/young adult staff

EMPLOYMENT DETAILS:

  • Seasonal position (with potential to stay on with Rutabaga year-round)

  • Pay: $20–$22/hour, based on experience

  • Camp dates: June 15–August 21, 2026

  • Schedule: Mon–Fri, 8:00am–4:00pm (flexibility required)

  • Pre-season prep: approximately 40 hours before June 15

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS ROLE:

  • Make a meaningful impact by leading a program that combines creativity, nature exploration, and sustainability.

  • Strengthen leadership and program management skills in a supportive, mission-driven environment.

  • Become a key member of a community dedicated to promoting sustainable living and fostering connections among families.

HOW TO APPLY:

If you’re passionate about nature, the arts, and making a difference in children’s lives, we’d love to hear from you. Please complete this APPLICATION FORM, including attaching your resume and a cover letter explaining why you’re the perfect fit for our Nature Arts Summer Camp team. We’d plan to review candidates in early March and make a final decision by the end of the month. Thank you!

Rutabaga Toy Library is an equal opportunity employer and will not discriminate against an employee or applicant based on race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status or any other protected status under federal, state, or local law.