Overview
Do you want to make a difference in the world and have fun while doing it? As a Wilderness Instructor, you and your co-lead will be responsible for the physical and emotional safety of up to 10 participants while engaging them in activities such as backpacking, rock climbing, and mountaineering in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. Instructors work from a set itinerary, manage the risks of backcountry travel, and facilitate a variety of workshops and activities that help participants develop their own leadership style.
Qualifications:
Two or more years of experience working with teens in an organized setting, including facilitating activities that address issues facing adolescents.
Excellent judgment and decision-making skills.
Strong group facilitation, communication, and conflict resolution skills.
Experience making the transference of a wilderness experience relevant to youth
Personal or professional experience in backpacking, rock climbing, paddling, and/or mountaineering.
Required Skills:
Current WFA and CPR Certification*
Current Washington State Food Handlers Permit*
Preferred Skills:
Current WFR or W-EMT Certification
Prefer 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.
About YMCA Outdoor Leadership
The Y's Outdoor Leadership team includes BOLD & GOLD, Climbing & Challenge, and YMCA Earth Service Corps (YESC). BOLD & GOLD leads diverse groups of youth on 8-22 day wilderness expeditions to the wild places of the Pacific Northwest. Camp Keller and Camp Terry provide outdoor day camp, environmental education opportunities, and group rental spaces. Climbing & Challenge manages the seven facilities that provide outdoor rock climbing, team building, and challenge course experiences throughout King County. YESC is an innovative youth-led program that empowers students to take a hands-on role in creating a healthier environment in their schools, communities and region while nurturing a respect for diversity within the natural world.
