Youth Activities Manager

About the role

Every day at Disney Cruise Line we take pride in bringing the magic of Disney to life. We create cherished memories, form genuine connections with guests, and uphold the highest standards of safety and responsibility. As part of our team you will work in a diverse and inclusive environment within a professional and supportive community, with opportunities to grow both personally and professionally.

Responsibilities

• Implement and handle daily operations, guest and crew experience aspects for all Youth spaces.
• Manage the Youth Activities team and oversee the following venues:
  • It’s A Small World Nursery
  • Oceaneer’s Club/Lab
  • EdgeVibe
  • Disney Castaway Cay / Disney Lookout Cay
• Provide leadership for all direct reports, including:
  • Managing daily schedules for Youth Activities staff
  • Maintaining personnel files
  • Conducting performance reviews and discipline as needed
  • Ensuring Project Onboard compliance
  • Monitoring STAR and making necessary corrections
  • Overseeing onboard training, new‑hire orientation, and ongoing development
  • Succession planning, crew recognition, and communication
  • Facilitating department meetings
  • Operating within budget guidelines and inventory control
  • Resolving guest complaints or issues
• Responsible for Youth Activities Navigator section.
• Monitor and observe Youth Programs for Disney show quality.
• Adhere to United States Public Health (USPH) policies, ensuring crew are trained and policies are managed.
• Function as a Youth Activities Counselor or related role as needed.

Basic Qualifications

• Minimum four years recent experience in a high‑volume child‑care operation (recreational, camp, or leisure setting).
• Minimum three years of current or previous management experience leading and motivating a large team.
• Degree in a related field preferred.
• Proven experience leading a team.
• Exceptional guest service skills.
• Strong presentation and communication skills.
• Willingness to receive CPR training while employed with DCL.
• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Ability to anticipate and solve problems quickly.
• Computer skills including word processing and spreadsheets.
• Experience managing complex policies and detailed operational procedures.
• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Willingness to live and work onboard a vessel for a specified length of time.
• Ability to work a seven‑day, 70‑84 hour week with limited time off.
• Compliance with Disney Cruise Line appearance guidelines.
• Appreciation for diversity among guests and crew.

Additional Information

• This is a shipboard role; candidates must be genuinely interested in a career at sea and willing to live and work onboard a Disney Cruise Line vessel.
• Must follow safety, emergency, and safety management responsibilities as outlined in the ship Assembly Plan and Safety Management System.
• May be required to share a confined cabin with other crew members and work in a multicultural environment with strict rules and regulations.
• Requirements:
  • Valid passport and C1/D Seaman's visa (DCL will provide documents to obtain this).
  • Completion of a pre‑employment medical exam.
  • Criminal background check.
  • Approved work shoes.
• Disney Cruise Line is a drug‑free workplace; all new hires must undergo drug/alcohol testing within the first week onboard and throughout their contracts, with failure resulting in immediate termination.