Outdoor Education Instructor

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the general supervision of the Outdoor Education and Retreats Coordinator, the Outdoor Education Instructor delivers school-based educational programs at YMCA Camp U-Nah-Li-Ya by facilitating experiential learning opportunities that promote environmental understanding, personal growth, and positive group experiences.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Lead assigned participant groups in outdoor education programming by using structured lessons, positive engagement strategies, and clear expectations to ensure a safe, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate learning experience.
• Develop, implement, and teach experiential curriculum by preparing hands-on outdoor lessons (e.g., canoeing, team-building, outdoor living skills, orienteering, cross-country skiing, predator/prey games) to strengthen students’ skills, confidence, and environmental awareness.
• Facilitate group activities such as campfires, capture-the-flag, night hikes, and saunas by using effective group management and safety practices to create memorable, community-building experiences.
• Maintain program areas, facilities, and equipment by performing routine upkeep, cleanliness, and safety checks to ensure a functional and welcoming learning environment.
• Teach environmental education concepts using age-appropriate methods to increase students’ understanding of the natural world and their personal responsibility in caring for it.
• Build positive relationships with school chaperones, teachers, and participants by communicating clearly and professionally to ensure a collaborative and supportive program environment.
• Identify and mitigate safety risks by conducting regular hazard assessments and responding promptly to concerns to prevent accidents and ensure participant well-being.
• Assist the Outdoor Education & Retreats Coordinator in hosting groups by conducting orientations, facilitating welcome and recap meetings, and maintaining open communication to ensure a smooth and positive camp experience.
• Provide a safe learning experience by following established lesson plans, risk-management procedures, and group management strategies to maintain participant safety and program quality.
• Promote respectful behavior by modeling and teaching care for nature, personal property, equipment, facilities, peers, and adults to support a positive and responsible community culture.
• Manage program equipment, supplies, and teaching aids by conducting inventory, identifying repairs or replacement needs, and submitting requests to the Outdoor Education and Retreats Coordinator to ensure program readiness.
• Support evening and weekend program operations by assisting with group hosting and participating in special events (e.g., Ski Sale, Open Houses) to contribute to overall camp success (2–3 per season).

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Demonstrated youth leadership experience; strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills; and a cooperative, team-focused attitude.
• Bachelor’s degree in Outdoor Recreation, Environmental Studies, Education, or related field preferred.
• Desire and ability to work with school-age students and respond to their developmental needs.
• Ability and willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions year-round.
• CPR and First Aid certification required within 60 days of employment. Lifeguard certification preferred (training available).
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds. Ability to participate in physical activities including hiking, canoeing, and active games.
• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed.
• Strong in-person communication skills that adapt to diverse audiences.

COMPETENCIES:

• Accountability:  Takes ownership of decisions, actions, and results.  Follows through on commitments and accepts responsibility.  Completes assigned tasks on time and accepts feedback without defensiveness. Adheres to established policies and procedures.
• Youth Development: Understands the physical, emotional, and social needs of children and teens; fosters independence, confidence, and positive relationships.
• Relationship Building: Develops genuine, supportive relationships with campers, peers, and staff while promoting inclusion and respect for all individuals.
• Emotional Intelligence: Demonstrates responsibility, patience, and professionalism; manages challenging situations calmly and effectively.
• Communication: Clearly and respectfully communicates with campers, parents, and staff; listens actively and adapts to different audiences and age groups.
• Inclusion & Cultural Competence: Creates a welcoming environment that celebrates diversity, equity, and belonging among campers and staff.
• Teamwork & Collaboration: Works cooperatively with others to achieve camp goals and support a positive, mission-driven culture.
• Adaptability & Initiative: Adjusts quickly to changing situations, weather, or schedules; takes initiative to solve problems and contribute to camp operations.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Work is performed primarily outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Frequent movement around camp to assist coworkers and support program activities.
• Ability to walk throughout camp facilities, operate necessary equipment, and assist with light cleaning.
• As a safety responder, must be able to crouch, stoop, kneel, move quickly, and lift at least 30 pounds.
• The Outdoor Education program is predominantly residential, with most groups attending three-day, two-night sessions (Monday–Wednesday or Wednesday–Friday).
• Programming operates in three main seasons: Fall (September–November), Winter (January–March), and Spring (April–June).

This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position and is not an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, or qualifications. Additional tasks may be assigned as needed to support organizational goals.  Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.