Trail Counselor Guide - Daily

Camp Widjiwagan, located in Ely, Minnesota, is seeking responsible and resilient Trail Counselors to lead and support wilderness camp programming for teenagers. This is a seasonal, outdoor‑intensive role that involves extended backcountry travel, group leadership, and participation in broader camp activities. On‑site shared staff housing is provided while not on trail.

Staff Training runs from May 25‑June 9th; the summer season runs from June 11‑August 22nd. The ideal candidate will be able to support through the summer season and training dates.

The salary for this position starts at $95.00 daily. We consider an individual’s background and experience in determining salary; therefore, base pay offered may vary considerably depending on job‑related knowledge, skills, and experience. The compensation package includes a wide range of other benefits and earned time off that vary depending on part‑time or full‑time status.

The Trail Counselor is responsible for leadership in group facilitation and wilderness camping for groups of teenagers, families, or adults as well as program support.

• Provide professional and culturally sensitive leadership to diverse groups of campers on overnight wilderness trips and during pre‑trip preparation
• Provide inclusive instruction in wilderness camping, canoeing, and backpacking
• Participate in camp programs, such as campfires, group singing, and games
• Guide and influence the trail group’s social interaction and personal growth
• Observe camper behavior, assess its appropriateness, and apply the necessary behavior‑management techniques
• Promote the core values – Caring, Equity, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility
• Enforce safety and health regulations and emergency procedures
• Be comfortable leading a group of teenagers for at least 7 days in remote and backcountry wilderness areas
• Complete all paperwork including camper evaluations, parent letters, and trip reports in a timely, high‑quality manner
• Participate in routine camp maintenance, facility upkeep, and other duties as assigned

This position reports to both the Program Director and Executive Director. Trail Counselors need to maintain professional, positive working relationships with the entire camp team, including kitchen staff, office and support staff, and other trail counselors.

Required:

• Lifeguard certification. The YMCA recognizes and accepts certifications from the following institutions:
  American Red Cross, YMCA, Star Guard, and Boy Scouts of America.
• Basic Life Support/CPR for the Professional Rescuer (renewed annually). Must include adult, child, and infant 1‑ and 2‑person, and use of an AED. The YMCA recognizes and accepts certifications from American Safety and Health Institute BLS, American Red Cross BLS, CPR for the Professional Rescuer, and American Heart Association Basic Life Support.
• Wilderness First Responder (WFR). The YMCA recognizes and accepts WFR certifications from a variety of institutions if they meet certain requirements. A full course must be at least 70 hours with a practical in‑person component and be called a “Wilderness First Responder” certification, and the institution must have a medical director who is an MD and advises on the curriculum.
• Minimum age of 18 years.
• If applicable, valid DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate.
• Valid U.S. Driver’s License and ability to pass both external driving background check and camp driving evaluation as well as a physical exam.
• Minimum age of 21 (for driving).
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Experience or education in wilderness risk management, camp counseling, outdoor education, outdoor recreation, youth development, or related field.
• Training or experience in wilderness camping, canoeing, backpacking, and/or trip planning.
• Demonstrated good judgment without direct supervision.
• Ability to operate in an emotionally demanding environment without access to front‑country support systems.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.

Preferred:

• One season of experience leading wilderness trips, camp counseling, or a related field.
• Leadership experience with groups of youth.
• Wilderness…