Camp Specialist - STEM

YMCA OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD INC•Springfield, MA

About The Position

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Create a program curriculum that aligns with the YMCA of Greater Springfield's values and mission, tailored to the age ranges that they serve Develop age‑appropriate activities that spark curiosity, build confidence, and encourage campers to explore how STEM concepts connect to the natural world. Plan, organize, and lead daily STEM activities that utilize outdoor spaces, natural materials, and field‑based learning. Modify lessons to meet the developmental needs of different age groups. Specialists are also expected to sing camp songs throughout the day and participate in or lead other camp spirit-based activities Uphold and follow all values, practices, and policies of the YMCA of Greater Springfield. Adhere to, and act in accordance, with all camp policies particularly as they relate to safety. Adhere to, and act following, the requirements of the local Department of Health and all other Massachusetts laws governing our summer camp programs. This role contributes to memorable camper experiences through high‑quality instruction, adherence to safety standards, and active participation in daily camp culture. Adapt instruction to meet the needs of campers with varying skill levels and abilities. Foster a positive, inclusive environment where all participants feel safe asking questions and trying new ideas. S/he must promote the best practices of customer service. Assist with general camp duties such as dismissal, group games, and weekly camp carnivals. Communicate with leadership about supply needs, program updates, and camper experiences. Occasional weekend and extended day shifts are required. QUALIFICATIONS: Must be at least 18 years old at the time of hire. Preferred 2 years of experience in programming and camp operations or equivalent Y experience. Experience working with children in a camp, school, or youth program setting. Must have a high school diploma, its equivalent, or be enrolled in a GED program Additional years of professional experience or a Rank of E-5 or better may be used in place of education requirements where permitted Must have, or be willing to earn, and maintain CPR, AED, and First Aid certifications. Ability to follow sound judgment calls in a fast-paced, participant-focused environment. Demonstrated ability to provide organizational leadership, coaching, and personal development support. Proven experience in teaching and directing diverse populations in youth enrichment programs. Must be able to role-model positive behaviors. Must be able to work in a high-value, and potentially high-stress, environment. Ability to design activities that promote teamwork, critical thinking, and experimentation. Exhibit core YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. Excellent relationship-building skills. WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to sit, stand or reach for extended periods of time, move around the work environment independently, push, pull, or lift to 25 pounds for short periods of time. Employees are exposed to noise, fluctuating temperatures, traverse wooded terrain, and be exposed to outdoor summer conditions for extended periods.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years old at the time of hire.
Experience working with children in a camp, school, or youth program setting.
Must have a high school diploma, its equivalent, or be enrolled in a GED program
Additional years of professional experience or a Rank of E-5 or better may be used in place of education requirements where permitted
Must have, or be willing to earn, and maintain CPR, AED, and First Aid certifications.
Ability to follow sound judgment calls in a fast-paced, participant-focused environment.
Demonstrated ability to provide organizational leadership, coaching, and personal development support.
Proven experience in teaching and directing diverse populations in youth enrichment programs.
Must be able to role-model positive behaviors.
Must be able to work in a high-value, and potentially high-stress, environment.
Ability to design activities that promote teamwork, critical thinking, and experimentation.
Exhibit core YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
Excellent relationship-building skills.

Nice To Haves

Preferred 2 years of experience in programming and camp operations or equivalent Y experience.

Responsibilities

Create a program curriculum that aligns with the YMCA of Greater Springfield's values and mission, tailored to the age ranges that they serve
Develop age‑appropriate activities that spark curiosity, build confidence, and encourage campers to explore how STEM concepts connect to the natural world.
Plan, organize, and lead daily STEM activities that utilize outdoor spaces, natural materials, and field‑based learning.
Modify lessons to meet the developmental needs of different age groups.
Specialists are also expected to sing camp songs throughout the day and participate in or lead other camp spirit-based activities
Uphold and follow all values, practices, and policies of the YMCA of Greater Springfield.
Adhere to, and act in accordance, with all camp policies particularly as they relate to safety.
Adhere to, and act following, the requirements of the local Department of Health and all other Massachusetts laws governing our summer camp programs.
This role contributes to memorable camper experiences through high‑quality instruction, adherence to safety standards, and active participation in daily camp culture.
Adapt instruction to meet the needs of campers with varying skill levels and abilities.
Foster a positive, inclusive environment where all participants feel safe asking questions and trying new ideas.
S/he must promote the best practices of customer service.
Assist with general camp duties such as dismissal, group games, and weekly camp carnivals.
Communicate with leadership about supply needs, program updates, and camper experiences.