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Program Director Opening

Four Winds * Westward Ho is seeking its next Program Director. This is an incredible leadership opportunity at an incredible camp, and we’re seeking a truly special camp professional. If you understand deeply what a traditional Camp experience can do for young people, are willing to do what it takes to make that experience the best it can be, understand the challenges of running a camp in 2026, and can bring your talents to bear on that task, then you should give this position a look.

The Program Director is a key member of the Year-Round Director Team with a primary focus on designing, supporting, and strengthening the Four Winds program experience. During the off-season, this role supports Counselor Trainee/Helping Hand hiring (our leadership training programs for 16 & 17 year olds), staff interviews, program development, and communications that reflect Camp’s mission and values. In the summer, the Program Director serves as the central coordinator of daily program operations, supervising Program Heads, leading program logistics, supporting evening and special activities, and ensuring strong, mission-aligned execution of Camp’s program at every level.

This individual is a visible leader in the community—creative in approach, organized in practice, attuned to staff and camper needs, and a steady collaborator across all camp departments.

This position works long hours during the summer, including regular evening commitments. The Program Director must be comfortable wearing many hats, be flexible in responding to shifting needs, and maintain a grounded, dependable leadership presence throughout the season.

Schedule & Work Expectations

Off-Season (September–March)

  • Part-time, 20 hours per week. Remote work is allowed and supported unless otherwise required for specific events or meetings. In coordination with the Associate Director, work may be consistently 20 hours a week during this period, or may be less regular, working more in some periods and less in others. 
  • Primary focus on program development, hiring support, curriculum planning, communication tasks, and preparation for summer programming.

Summer Season (April–August)

  • Full-time. Remote work may continue at 40 hours per week in April and May. On approximately June 1 every year, the Program Director must be on site at Four Winds on Orcas Island through the end of our summer program, plus approximately one week for breakdown and debrief.
  • Requires consistent in-person leadership presence in program areas, during all-camp gatherings, staff training, evening programs, and daily operational routines.
  • Includes regular evening and weekend responsibilities in accordance with summer program needs.

Essential Job Functions

Off-Season (Part-Time): Program Support & Staff Selection

CT/HH Program

  • Partner with the Associate Director to participate in Counselor Trainee and Helping Hand interviews and selection. Act as the primary interviewer for CTs and Helping Hands.

Hiring

  • Conduct second-round interviews for new seasonal staff candidates.
  • Participate in hiring decisions as directed by the Associate Director.

Social Media & Communications

  • Create and manage the annual posting calendar for program-related social media.
  • Design branded content, write posts, and support engagement across platforms.
  • Contribute to FWWH storytelling that highlights mission, values, and programming.
  • Create photo slideshows for family communication, community events, and Board meetings.

Program Development & Curriculum

  • Collaborate with the Associate Director to review and update the program curriculum.
  • Identify areas of improvement in program areas, supplies, training, and execution. Liaise with the Special Projects Manager on supply needs and budget. 

Summer (Full-Time): Program Leadership & Execution

Staff Training

  • Lead or co-lead training sessions related to program operations, evening activities, and social activities.
  • Support the orientation and development of Program Heads and program staff.

Program Supervision

  • Directly supervise Program Heads and the seasonal Nanny position.
  • Maintain daily presence across program areas to observe teaching quality, camper engagement, and safety practices.
  • Gather and track program supply needs, liaising with the Special Projects Manager on ordering and inventory management.
  • Serve as an accessible leader, problem solver, and resource for Program Heads.

Daily & Weekly Program Operations

  • Lead daily All Staff Stairs Meetings to set tone, expectations, and logistics for the day. 
  • Coordinate morning skits alongside the Heads Team. 
  • Create and manage:
    • Flags, Firewatch, and Setting/Clearing schedules
    • Lodge Deck Table Map for meal seating

Evening & Special Day Activities

  • Lead planning, supply coordination, set-up, and execution of evening programs and special day events.
  • Coordinate staffing roles and prepare necessary materials in partnership with Heads Team. 
  • Provide on-the-ground leadership during activities.

Session Close-Out

  • Collect Program Head Activity Area Binders and gather end-of-session feedback and improvement recommendations from the Program Heads.
  • Upload, curate, and organize photos to SmugMug at the end of each session.

Other Duties

  • Assist with materials and presentations for Board meetings.
  • Support year-round community events, slideshows, and program development work.
  • Attend professional development opportunities as available and encouraged.
  • Maintain flexibility, collaboration, and a commitment to Camp values in all responsibilities.

Qualifications

  • Strong leadership, meaning the willingness and ability to influence others’ behavior in a way that brings us closer to the ideal Camp experience.
  • At least two seasons in a camp or outdoor education leadership role; year-round program leadership experience preferred.
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
  • Empathy and emotional intelligence in working with staff, campers, and families.
  • Ability to build and maintain trust across a diverse community.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills; ability to maintain confidentiality.
  • Computer proficiency and comfort with digital tools.
  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
  • At least 21 years old, eligible to work in the U.S., with a valid driver’s license and clean driving record.
  • Ability to pass a criminal background check.
  • Physical ability to walk 3 miles daily on uneven terrain.
  • Lifeguard, CPR & First Aid, WA Food Handler’s, and WA Boater Education certifications, or willingness to obtain them.

Compensation & Residency Details

  • Salary range: $50,000–$55,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications. (Note – the position will be paid hourly from September-May, and from June-August will be reclassified to salaried in accordance with federal and Washington laws for summer camp staff.)
  • Summer housing is required and provided at no cost to the employee. Family members of the successful candidate are welcome to reside in the provided housing, following the Guidelines for Residents of Four Winds. Housing options range from a studio apartment to a small two-bedroom home, assigned based on the employee’s needs as well as those of other resident staff.
  • Remote work arrangements are available and supported during the September–May off-season.
  • This position will be fully eligible for Four Winds’ benefits program for year-round staff, including health insurance paid 100% for the employee and 80% for dependents/spouses/domestic partners, dental and vision insurance paid at 80% for the employee and 50% for dependents/spouses/domestic partners, Flexible Spending Account, SIMPLE-IRA retirement plan with 4% company match, and paid vacation and sick leave.

To apply:

Send an email with a resume and cover letter attached in pdf format to diana@fourwindscamp.org. Preference will be given to candidates who submit resumes before January 5, 2026. Please do not send hard copies. ZOOM interviews will begin with selected candidates in January. Start date is as soon as possible, with preference given to candidates that can start earlier. The latest possible start date for the position is April 2026.

Four Winds is an equal opportunity employer. People of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.