Overview
Job Summary
Outdoor Environmental Education Program Instructors provide outdoor environmental education programs, challenge education programs, and weekend recreation programs for participants attending YMCA Camp Colman.
The Fall 2025 season runs from August – November.
To learn more about working with Camp & Outdoor Leadership at the Y, please visit us online at www.campingandoutdoorleadership.org.
What you’ll get from working at The Y:
Individual membership to the YMCA of Greater Seattle
Free access to mental health resources
Rapidly accruing paid time off (PTO) available immediately upon hire
Access to a large organic garden
A positive, growth-oriented community of fun coworkers
Opportunity for adventure every day
Compensation: New hires: $100 / day; Staff returning to the same or equivalent job for the second season: $110 / day; Staff returning to the same or equivalent job for three or more seasons: $120 / day
Responsibilities
What you’ll be doing as an Outdoor Environmental Education Program Instructor:
Act as part of the total camp staff team to provide a quality outdoor education program to school groups and weekend family camps.
Actively contribute to the camp staff team by communicating ideas and concerns openly, making solution-oriented suggestions, exhibiting a service-minded attitude, and being an appropriate role model.
Prepare and teach classes in Environmental Education and Challenge Education daily as assigned.
Facilitate activities (e.g., crafts, archery, row boating, large group games, campfires, etc.) daily as assigned.
Facilitate evening activities, meal duties, and cleaning duties as assigned.
Model and enforce all camp policies.
Attend and participate in all required meetings and trainings.
Follow YMCA policies and procedures, including those related to medical and disciplinary situations, child abuse prevention, program and equipment inspection written documentation, and emergencies.
Ensure high standards of housekeeping are met in all cabins, facilities, staff housing, program areas, bathrooms, and main lodge. Monitor and restock housekeeping supplies as needed.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Work Environment
This job operates at a seasonal residential camp, both inside and outdoors. Staff typically live in either shared cabins with campers or in shared housing with staff for the duration of employment. Specific housing depends on position and availability.
Qualifications:
You are 19 years of age or older and have:
At least one (1) season of experience teaching environmental education.
Strong communication and leadership skills.
Other combinations of applicable education, training, and experience which provide the knowledge, abilities, and skills necessary to perform effectively in the position may be considered.
Preferred Skills:
Preferred Education and Experience:
Current state-approved First Aid certification.*
Current state-approved CPR certification.*
BA / BS degree or equivalent in related field.
Knowledge of and previous experience with diverse populations (language, culture, race, physical ability, sexual orientation, etc.). Ability to speak any language in addition to English may be helpful.
Experience with anti-racism practices and coalition building.
*CPR and FA training will be provided within first 30 days of employment
About YMCA of Greater Seattle Camp and Outdoor Leadership
YMCA Camps and Outdoor Leadership programs offer innovative youth development programs to help kids and teens build the life skills they need to become their best selves, where traditional camp experiences meet a modern curriculum focused on social-emotional learning, environmental sciences, and building community and self-confidence. Whether exploring the natural world, experimenting with science, or simply playing a game with friends brings you joy, we have a day camp, overnight camp, or outdoor leadership trip for you. Experience the adventure and magic of the outdoors with the Y.
