JOB TITLE: Outdoor Skills Lead

DEPARTMENT: Camp (40) - Camp Greider

REPORTS TO: Assistant Director of Programming

LOCATION: Camp Greider

STATUS: Seasonal

PAY RATE: $640+ DOE/week

Our Culture

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you. 

Position Summary 

Camp Greider has been offering unique and high quality summer camps to youth, ages 6-15 since 1978. Instruction in a variety of specialty topics is combined with a well-rounded outdoor summer day camp program experience at our beautiful location out in West Salem. A convenient check in/out location at the downtown Salem Y, and extended daytime hours add to the popularity. Youth attend one or more weeks throughout the summer. Age appropriate groups are kept to a small, 1:8 ratio of adults to youth for a fun summer experience for all. 

The Outdoor Skills Lead is responsible for developing programming in archery, hiking, and environmental education. The Outdoor Skills Lead will provide direct supervision of outdoor skills programming, assisting the counseling staff in successfully  guiding campers through the activities. The Outdoor Skills Lead will maintain signage for emergency evacuation routes.

Essential Functions 

• Design and implement Outdoor Skills programming, including but not limited to archery, hiking, and environmental education
• Develop engaging outdoor activities that encourage exploration and appreciation of nature
• Maintain clear signage for all emergency evacuation routes and notify the Camp Director and/or Assistant Director of Operations of any needed equipment, supplies, or maintenance
• Provide support and leadership to counseling staff as appropriate
• Ensure outdoor skills equipment is organized, properly maintained, and in good condition
• Keep accurate and organized records of routine maintenance checks for ranges, equipment, and other assigned supplies
• Conduct ongoing staff observations to ensure adherence to safety regulations, effective instruction, and proper identification and management of environmental and other hazards related to outdoor skills activities
• Ensure staff are familiar with emergency procedures in all outdoor skills programming areas
• Communicate with the AD of Programs regarding all program-related needs
• Assume responsibility for the health, welfare, and safety of campers under their supervision
• Maintain open communication with the AD of Programs and Camp Director regarding the needs of staff and campers
• Assist in any camp area as needed, including providing group coverage when necessary
• Communicate with families at check-in and check-out as needed
• Participate in all training, activities, classes, and planned sessions during pre-camp weeks
• Collaborate with the Camp Director and Camping Services Director to help design and implement staff training 
• Create and maintain a positive, cooperative working relationship with fellow staff, YMCA Camp Greider campers, participants, and the entire camp community
• Demonstrate commitment to quality, YMCA core values, and enthusiasm for working with youth of all ages
• Support and contribute to a safe, clean camp environment for staff and guests
• Maintain knowledge of association policies, procedures, risk management, and safety practices
• Support the overall association’s initiatives through camp programming and leadership

This job description may not be all inclusive and employees are expected to perform all other duties as assigned and directed by management. Job descriptions and duties may be modified when deemed appropriate by management. 

Entry Requirements 

• Must be at least 18 years old by the start of the camp season
• Two years of college or equivalent experience in camp-related work preferred
• Prior leadership experience with groups of children in camps, youth programs, educational settings, or community groups
• Experience and knowledge in archery, environmental education, hiking, and other outdoor activities
• Prior experience developing and implementing curriculum, preferably in a camp setting
• Supervisory experience, particularly in peer leadership, preferred
• Strong desire and ability to work with children and teens
• Ability to understand and prioritize the needs of campers and the camp community over personal needs
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for working effectively with peers, supervisors, and children
• Comfortable working in an outdoor environment and able to foster an appreciation for nature among campers
• Demonstrates flexibility, maturity, and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Enjoys working and interacting with people of all ages and backgrounds, with a special emphasis on children, while modeling and promoting the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility
• Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic backgrounds
• USA Archery Level 1 Instructor Certification required, or ability to obtain certification.
• Must be CPR and First Aid certified or willing to obtain certification within the first 30 days of employment (training provided upon hire)
• Lifeguard certification encouraged
• Must hold a valid Oregon Food Handler’s Certification before the first day of employment
• Individual is capable of effective and appropriate mental, emotional and social responses in a constantly changing, youth-centered environment
• Must be available during all of the following date:

June 8 - June 14 (Program Staff Retreat)

June 15 - June 21 (Mandatory All-Staff Training)

June 23 - August 23 (Camp Season & Move-Out)

Physical/Mental Requirements 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

• Physically able to accompany campers to and participate in all camp activities. 
• Able to communicate verbally with campers and to provide instructions. 
• Possess visual and auditory ability to respond to critical incidents and physical ability to act swiftly in emergency situations. 
• Able to observe camper behavior, respond to health and safety concerns and deal appropriately with camper behavior. 
• Able to work long hours including nights and weekends. 
• Able to work outdoors in varying weather conditions (rain, heat etc).
• Capable of effective and appropriate mental, emotional and social responses in a constantly changing, youth centered environment.

All candidates must have reliable transportation. Job offers are contingent upon completion of a rigorous criminal history background check.