Day Camp Assistant Director - The Discovery School - Allison Park, Pennsylvania, United States

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 03:01:37 -0500

Company Description

The Discovery School Day Camp is a special place for children to have fun, grow new friendships, discover nature, and have the freedom to be themselves! We strive to inspire a culture of kindness, curiosity, and connection to one another as well as the world around us. Our Discovery kids spend their days exploring our 7 acre nature campus - climbing in our nature playground, building forts in the woods, relaxing by the pond, creating art, playing group games, working in the garden, and having water fun!

Job Description

Position: Assistant Director

Reports to: Camp Director

Time Commitment: M-F (40 hrs/week) 6/1/26-7/31/26

Compensation: $20/hour

PRIMARY PURPOSE: The Assistant Director plays a critical role in supporting the daily operations,

programming, and overall success of camp. This role combines leadership, hands-on involvement with

campers, administrative support, and compliance responsibilities, ensuring a safe, fun, and smoothly run

camp experience. You’ll help foster a positive, inclusive environment while assisting the Camp Director and

mentoring counselors.

Core Responsibilities & Expectations

Professionalism & Collaboration

● Arrive well-rested, on time, and maintain consistent attendance for the full 8-week session.

● Communicate any absences with as much advance notice as possible.

● Build positive, professional relationships with campers, families, and staff.

● Uphold and model The Discovery School Day Camp philosophy, policies, and values.

● Show initiative in problem-solving and be open to new ideas.

● Approach challenges with creativity, adaptability, and a sense of humor.

● Maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive information about campers and families.

● Model conflict resolution by addressing issues directly and collaboratively.

Health, Safety & Well-Being

● Ensure the safety and general well-being of all campers at all times.

● Document incidents and communicate with parents or camp leadership as required.

● Follow all camp health and safety guidelines, including state regulations regarding child protection

and emergency procedures.

● Remain calm and follow the Emergency Plan during incidents or emergencies.

● Be physically capable of lifting, moving, or assisting children (~50 lbs) as needed.

● Stay informed of camper names, approved pick-ups, allergies, lunch choices, and any other safety

information provided by families.

Program Leadership & Operational Responsibilities

● Assist in supervising and supporting camper groups throughout the day.

● Lead Foxes’ FirePit activities and mentor counselors in their facilitation.

● Supervise Before Care and welcome families each morning.

● Assist the Camp Director with daily operational tasks: setting up and breaking down special

activities, restocking supplies, taking photos, supporting early dismissals, and other logistical

needs.

● Maintain a well-organized, safe, and clean camp environment.

● Serve as the point person for Playful Pollinator licensing, including preparing documentation and

coordinating the annual site visit.

● Provide hands-on support to counselors and campers during activities, indoors and outdoors, in all

weather.

● Establish and maintain positive relationships with campers and families, promoting self-esteem and

engagement.

● Follow the camp’s positive discipline approach and Code of Conduct.

● Support an inclusive environment for campers with diverse abilities by implementing the

accommodations and strategies specified in their individual camper plans.

● Demonstrate a full range of motion to lift, reach, squat, climb, sit, or otherwise fully participate in

activities.

● Help foster fun and excitement throughout the camp day.

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS:

● Must be 18+ years of age.

● Obtain all necessary clearances (linked below)

● Educational requirements: Must have a BA degree in either early childhood, child development,

special education, elementary education or human services.

● Must have a love and willingness to serve children and their families.

● Strongly support and execute The Discovery School Day Camp’s mission.

● Be able to manage multiple priorities and complete assigned tasks in a timely manner.

● Have the social skills necessary to relate to a variety of people in a highly collaborative

environment, remaining positive even under stressful situations.

Necessary Clearances:

● PA Criminal Background Check

● PA Child Abuse Check

● FBI Criminal Background Check

● NSOR

● Act 31 Online Training

● Health Form

● Disclosure Statement

● Arrest or Conviction Form

● Required camp health and safety training

● Employment Verification Form(s): verification that you have had at least 2 years (2,500 hours)

experience working with children.

● 2 non family reference letters

● A copy of your college transcripts

* Clearances and Act 31 training must be valid through August 1, 2026

Other Requirements:

● CPR/first-aid certified - included and paid for in summer camp staff training week

● Maintain consistent attendance for 8 weeks of camp

Additional Information