Retreat Instructor- Camp Cosby

Position: Retreat Instructor-YMCA Camp Cosby
Inspire Curiosity, Lead Adventures, and Help Students Connect With Nature!

As a Retreat Instructor, you’ll create meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that encourage students to explore the outdoors, build confidence, and discover the world around them. From leading educational activities and adventure experiences to facilitating meals and evening programs, you’ll serve as a positive role model while bringing the YMCA’s Core Values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility to life.

What You'll Be Doing Lead engaging, hands-on educational lessons and activities for students

Teach a variety of topics, including aquatic and forest ecology, wildlife and animal adaptations, sensory awareness, organic gardening, maps, orienteering, living history, and more Facilitate team-building activities that encourage communication, collaboration, and personal growth

Lead outdoor adventure experiences, including night hikes and campfire activities

Safely handle and educate participants about small captive animals

Facilitate meals and help create a positive, welcoming experience for all participants

Serve as the primary point of contact for groups while they are on site Participate in weekly scheduling meetings, staff meetings, and required in-service training

Assist with projects that improve program resources and enhance the physical camp site Adapt activities and instruction to meet the needs of different groups and learning styles

Why This Job Is a Great Fit This position is perfect for someone who enjoys the outdoors, loves working with students, and is excited to make learning active and memorable. Every day brings new opportunities to teach, explore, lead adventures, and help young people build confidence and a deeper appreciation for nature.

Perks & Benefits Free YMCA membership for you and eligible household members
50% discounts on many YMCA programs, including swim lessons, youth sports, childcare, camps, and more Flexible scheduling to help balance work, school, and life Opportunities for professional growth and advancement within the YMCAWork for a mission-driven organization that invests in its employees and community

What We're Looking For An enthusiastic, energetic, and adaptable individual who enjoys working outdoorsA positive role model who demonstrates the YMCA’s Core Values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility Someone who enjoys teaching, leading activities, and creating engaging experiences for students

Strong communication and interpersonal skills

The ability to build positive relationships with students, teachers, adult chaperones, and fellow staff membersA team player who is flexible and willing to support a variety of programs and activities

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years old Ability to work a seasonal schedule that may include evenings and outdoor activities

Ability to lead educational, camp, and adventure-based programs

Comfortable working outdoors in a variety of weather conditions

Ability to safely participate in and lead activities such as hiking, team building, and animal education

Willingness to attend required staff meetings, training sessions, and in-service programs

Expectations

Maintain a professional, positive, and welcoming attitude

Be flexible and adaptable when activities, schedules, or program needs change

Provide active supervision and prioritize the safety and well-being of all participants

Arrive on time, prepared, and ready to lead assigned activities

Communicate clearly and respectfully with students, teachers, chaperones, staff, and supervisors

Create an inclusive environment where all participants feel welcomed, supported, and encouraged

Follow all YMCA policies and procedures, including those related to child safety and professional boundaries

Complete required abuse risk management training

Report suspicious or inappropriate behavior, policy violations, and concerns in accordance with YMCA procedures and mandated reporting requirements

What Success Looks Like Success in this role means students are engaged, safe, and excited to learn. You’ll help create memorable outdoor experiences that encourage curiosity, teamwork, confidence, environmental awareness, and a greater connection to nature.

More Than Just a Job At the YMCA, you’ll do more than teach—you’ll help young people discover new interests, develop important life skills, and create lasting memories. As an Outdoor Education Instructor, you’ll be part of a mission-driven team that uses the outdoors to inspire learning, personal growth, and a stronger connection to the community.

Apply Today If you’re ready to teach, explore, lead adventures, and help students discover the world around them, apply today and make a lasting impact with the YMCA!
#J-18808-Ljbffr