Adventure Program Trip Leader

YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago•Ingleside, IL

37d•$920 - $980•Onsite

About The Position

Under the supervision of the Overnight Camp Director, the Adventure Program Trip Leader will be responsible for planning, overseeing, and leading the summer BOLD & GOLD programs for Camp Duncan. BOLD & GOLD activities include leading backpacking trips over varied terrain and helping teens develop hard and soft leadership skills. Responsibilities include developing curriculum, planning trips, providing and/or arranging transportation of campers and staff, activity and equipment safety, problem-solving any issues that arise during trips, and general supervision of staff and campers both on- and off-site. The ideal candidate will ensure the physical and emotional safety and welfare of all campers as well as support the YMCA mission and core values. Live-on position, $920-$980 bi-weekly, housing & meals provided, seasonal position May 1-August 28, 2026 Our staff is the Y's greatest asset. Our teams provide valuable skills, knowledge, and passion that is essential to the contribution and positive impact in our communities, which is why we offer Y employees numerous perks and benefits, including: Competitive salaries reflecting your skills and experience. Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for eligible employees, plus wellness programs, mental health resources, and a family gym membership. Generous PTO and paid holidays, with flexible work hours for work-life balance. 403(b) plan with company contributions for eligible employees after 2 years of service. Continuous learning opportunities through workshops and training programs. Supportive work environment valuing diversity, equity, and inclusion. Discounts on programs, employee assistance programs, and company-sponsored events.

Requirements

Experienced and confident in backpacking, canoeing, or camping.
Complete all mandatory YMCA e-Learning and safety trainings.
Adhere to YMCA policies for risk management, supervision, and child protection.
Proficient in Google Workspace (Gmail, Docs, Sheets) and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel); comfortable learning new technology.
Must have the physical, visual, and auditory ability to perform all essential job functions, including lifting up to 50 lbs, hiking up to 8 miles per day, and sleeping outdoors in all weather conditions.
Must be at least 21 years old with a valid driver's license and clean driving record (required for YMCA van driver training).
Attend all staff meetings and trainings; complete additional duties as assigned by your supervisor.
Model cultural humility, celebrate diversity, and demonstrate the YMCA's core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.

Nice To Haves

Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certification and CPR certification required (training available).
Lifeguard certification preferred.

Responsibilities

Co-lead 6-day outdoor expeditions for teens (ages 13-17) - hiking, canoeing, camping, and exploring scenic Midwest wilderness areas.
Create a positive, inclusive group culture that builds courage, confidence, and connection.
Facilitate leadership, team building, and reflection activities in nature.
Drive and transport participants safely to trip destinations (YMCA vehicles provided).
Model outdoor living skills, from backcountry cooking to Leave No Trace ethics.
Maintain high standards of safety, fun, and care for all participants.
Assist with the over-all functions of the camp daily schedule.
Enforces rules and regulations of the facilities to maintain discipline and ensure safety. Monitors campers and counselors and intervenes if campers or counselors are behaving inappropriately or unsafely.
Supports the YMCA's mission and camp operations as needed.
Reporting any items that may provide a health or safety hazard to staff, members or guests to your supervisor
Following all policies and procedures related to keeping children safe in our facilities and programs, including those related to the monitoring and supervision of children
Reporting any suspicious behavior and violation of policy and procedures to your supervisor
Completing all child abuse prevention training as required

Benefits

Competitive salaries reflecting your skills and experience.
Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for eligible employees, plus wellness programs, mental health resources, and a family gym membership.
Generous PTO and paid holidays, with flexible work hours for work-life balance.
403(b) plan with company contributions for eligible employees after 2 years of service.
Continuous learning opportunities through workshops and training programs.
Supportive work environment valuing diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Discounts on programs, employee assistance programs, and company-sponsored events.

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