Outdoor Education Specialist

POSITION SUMMARY

Under the general direction of the Summer Camp Director, the Outdoor Education Specialist is responsible for creating a safe environment with an appropriate curriculum and program for their assigned specialty camp and program area.

• Assist in assuring the safety and health of all campers in accordance with applicable NJ state and ACA requirements through proper supervision. Actively participate with all children.
• Design and implement outdoor education curriculum tailored to different age groups and abilities, incorporating environmental education and life skills development.
• Must lead outdoor activities such as, but not limited to, hiking, canoeing, ropes/challenge courses, team building, while providing clear instructions and ensuring participant safety.
• Facilitate group dynamics, team building cohesion, and fostering communication among participants.
• Educate participants about the natural environment, conservation practices, and Leave No Trace principles.
• Assess potential hazards, implement safety protocols, and respond to emergencies by following the camp EAP.
• Maintain all equipment and property, minimizing damage. Inform the director if new equipment is needed or equipment needs repair.
• Assist in packing up equipment, materials, supplies, etc. and camp close at the end of camp season. Submit inventory of supplies packed to the Camp Director.
• Communicate positively and enthusiastically with campers, parents, staff and volunteers.
• Treat each child and parent with dignity and respect. Show attentiveness to all parent and camper issues.
• Maintain a safe work environment, free of clutter, debris, and hazardous conditions.
• Report all accidents and incidents involving self, participants, guests or other employees.
• Familiar with and able to implement emergency procedures.
• Ensure cleanliness of facility or property.
• Assist in planning and implementation of special camp-wide theme programs, including Family Days and Open Houses.
• Recognize and respond to potential problems in group or individual discipline problems in accordance with camp policies and procedures.
• Evaluate current season, program, and self. Make recommendations for next season.
• Attend and actively participate in staff training and meetings.
• Assist during waterfront activities by serving as a lookout, swim instructor, boater, buddy, or clipboard counselor.
• Assist at the assigned bus stop with campers and parents.
• All other duties as assigned.
• Demonstrate and model the YMCA’s four core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.
• Exhibit personal and professional behavior in a manner consistent with the best interest of the Association, so as not to bring discredit to the Association.
• Perform such other job‑related duties as may be periodically assigned by the Supervisor.
• Cooperate; work effectively and congenially with all YMCA staff members, volunteers, and members of the Association.
• Attend required Abuse Risk Management training and adhere to procedures related to managing high‑risk activities and supervising members and participants.
• Follow employee and volunteer screening requirements and use screening instruments to screen for abuse risk. Provide employees and volunteers with on‑going supervision and training related to abuse risk.
• Provide employees and volunteers with regular feedback regarding their boundaries with consumers and require them to adhere to policies and procedures related to abuse risk.
• Respond quickly to policy and procedure violations using the Y’s disciplinary procedures and respond seriously and confidentially to reports of suspicious and inappropriate behaviors and follow mandated reporting requirements.
• Communicates to all employees and volunteers the Y’s commitment to protect our members from abuse.
• Ensure unused rooms and closets remain locked; will routinely monitor high‑risk locations (locker rooms and restrooms) etc.

• Emotional Maturity
• Communication
• Critical Thinking and Decision Making
• Relationships
• Collaboration

• Must be at least 20 years of age and be a high school graduate.
• Previous experience in camping, recreation, teaching, childcare or physical…