Outdoor Education Program Instructor - Camp Marston

YMCA of San Diego County•Julian, CA

4d•$745 - $752•Onsite

About The Position

The Outdoor Education Instructor delivers engaging outdoor education and recreational programming, primarily for fifth- and sixth-grade students ages 10–12 in an outdoor science school setting. The instructor teaches hands-on outdoor education and natural history classes, leads recreational activities, and provides overnight supervision for an assigned student group. Because this is a residential role, the instructor must live on-site for the full camp season and remain available and responsive to camper needs, emergencies, and unforeseen situations. The position emphasizes participant safety, careful stewardship of program equipment and facilities, excellent customer service, and active contribution to a supportive camp community. The role is based at an overnight camp and is scheduled Monday through Friday, with one weekend of work each month and time off during the week. The Outdoor Education season runs January 11, 2027 through May 29, 2027. Weekly pay is $745.40–$752.20. The position is exempt from overtime under the stated organized-camp counselor provision. Free on-site meals and on-site housing are provided; a weekly housing cost is deducted from pay.

Requirements

High school diploma/GED, or training that ensures the ability to read and write at the level required for successful job performance, supplemented by specialized training in recreation or a related field.
At least six months of experience in outdoor education or related experience.
At least one year of experience working with children ages 7–17.
Visual and auditory ability and physical capacity to identify, assess, and respond effectively to critical incidents and emergencies.
Ability to observe participant activities, enforce safety regulations, and apply camp policies and procedures to mitigate risk.
Physical ability to lead and participate in group activities, including standing, walking, hiking, and/or climbing for extended periods, often outdoors in varied weather conditions.
Ability to plan, organize, and prepare materials and spaces for daily activities so sessions start on time and run smoothly.
Ability to use hands-on teaching methods and leadership skills to deliver instructional sessions and manage groups in an outdoor setting.
Competency in natural history, ecology, and outdoor recreation, and ability to translate complex concepts into age-appropriate lessons for fifth- and sixth-grade campers ages 10–12.
Ability to work cooperatively and collaboratively with a staff team and adapt to schedule changes or unforeseen program needs.
Ability to live on-site throughout the full program season and maintain professional standards with staff and campers in all areas at all times.
Fingerprinting before reporting to work is required for YMCA San Diego County staff, with subsequent arrest notifications.
CPR and First Aid certification is required within 30 days of hire and must be from the American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or American Safety & Health Institute.

Responsibilities

Assume full, 24-hour responsibility for an assigned cabin group, including evenings, overnights, mealtimes, transitions, and activity periods; respond promptly to camper needs, emergencies, and unforeseen situations.
Teach engaging, age-appropriate outdoor education and natural history classes to fifth- and sixth-grade students ages 10–12; develop interpretive displays and detailed lesson plans based on program needs, best practices, and areas of expertise.
Lead diverse activities, including archery, field games, and specialized recreation such as a climbing tower, using effective teaching and leadership techniques.
Take responsibility for assigned program areas, including developing operating rules and procedures, performing minor maintenance or repairs, and maintaining or improving equipment and facilities.
Plan and prepare activities in advance, ensure materials are ready and areas are safe, and meet established learning or recreational goals; assess lesson and activity effectiveness and provide feedback to leadership.
Participate enthusiastically in camp activities, encourage camper participation, and adapt instruction to diverse skill levels and needs.
Use sound judgment and conservative decision-making, prioritizing children's physical and emotional safety.
Follow and enforce camp safety rules and operating procedures, and implement emergency procedures when necessary.
Help maintain clean facilities and care for and inventory equipment and supplies; practice environmental stewardship and participate in general camp chores, which may include cleaning cabins and bathrooms, assisting with evening programs and special events, and contributing to larger projects as requested by the Program Director.
Follow directives from Program Coordinators, the Outdoor Education Director, or Program Directors, and communicate work-related issues through the Program Coordinators.
Perform other duties as assigned.