Outdoor Program Specialist

Camp Fire First Texas•Granbury, TX

7d•Onsite

About The Position

Under the direction of the Texas Outdoor Education Coordinator and Rental and Retreats Coordinator, this position is responsible for facilitating a variety of hands-on experiential learning opportunities for participants of all ages. In working with the Texas Outdoor Education Center (TxOEC), the program specialist teaches environmental education programming to kindergarten to 12th grade students, who participate in day and overnight programming. In conjunction with our Rentals and Retreats department, the program specialist facilitates outdoor adventure activities for a variety of user groups renting Camp El Tesoro facilities throughout the year.

Requirements

Current CPR/First Aid certifications (or willingness to attain upon hire)
Self-motivated, able to work independently or with a team
A genuine interest in working with and teaching participants of all ages in an outdoor environment.
Ability to lift 40 pounds, to stoop, stretch, bend and walk on uneven terrain and in a variety of environments and weather.
Provide a warm, nurturing, fun, and safe environment for all participants.
Interact with program participants in a positive and professional manner.
Attend all meetings and functions required by the position.
Ability to facilitate implement curriculum with participants of all ages.
Ability to use office equipment including copiers, computers and telephones.
Ability to use maintenance equipment including saws, loppers, rakes, and shovels.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in education, forestry, anthropology, wildlife management, environmental science, outdoor recreation, or related fields is preferred. Degree may be substituted by a combination of college hours and at least two years of outdoor experience. Volunteering or interning in organizations that focus on child education or nature education can also assist in experience for the Outdoor Education Program Specialist.
Previous summer camp and/or outdoor education experience.
Preference toward current or willingness to attain Archery, Challenge Course Level 1, and/or Lifeguard certifications.
The ability and desire to work with elementary school students through senior adults in small and large group situations, a desire to live in community, a sense of humor, creativity and flexibility.

Responsibilities

Implement a variety of age and ability appropriate activities in environmental education programs, such as: fossils, birds, habitats, native flora, insects, and additional studies as developed.
Implement a variety of age and ability appropriate activities in the above-stated outdoor adventure programs, such as: archery, challenge course, canoeing, outdoor survival skills, and additional studies as developed.
Participate as a member of the TxOEC and Rental and Retreats team to deliver and supervise evening programs, overnights, and special events.
Evaluate the success of outdoor programs and assist in quality modifications through Camp Fire Program Quality Assessment.
Ensure participants know and follow safety and educational procedures.
Maintain the environmental education and outdoor adventure equipment including curriculum and material storage areas, facility areas, books, brochures, materials and supplies.
Observe hazards or developments in the natural environment and alert appropriate staff.
Inventory and restock environmental education and outdoor adventure equipment in a timely manner.
Conduct a daily check of the facilities and equipment for safety, cleanliness and good repair.
Ability to live in camp setting and work irregular hours while delivering programs.
Endurance including standing, some bending, stooping and stretching.
Ability to observe behavior, enforce appropriate safety regulations and emergency procedures, and apply appropriate behavior-management techniques.
Assist in overall implementation of camp programs.
Ability to support Facilities team through occasional cleaning of cabins, dining hall, trail maintenance, among other tasks.
Adhere to Camp Fire First Texas policies and procedures.
Assume other duties and special projects as assigned.
Plan and coordinate with Program Coordinators to implement daily lesson plans based on groups needs or other daily tasks as needed.
Supervise and participate in group activities.
Delivery of designated outdoor education and recreational lesson plans.
Prepare for educational programs.
Support curriculum development.
Perform Camp Fire Program Quality Assessment.
Assist in program events such as Camp Previews, Fall/Winter Camping, Trail Run, and Breakfast with Santa, as needed.
Ensure proper use of program supplies and equipment to minimize waste.
Report any concerns to supervisors immediately.
Attend required training and staff meetings.
Working collaboratively with other Program Specialists, Program Coordinators, and Facility Staff.
Maintain positive, professional relationships with participants, school faculty, and families.
Interact with program volunteers, as needed.
Provide exceptional customer service to participants.
Maintain high number of programs by providing excellent programming.
Promote Camp El Tesoro programs within the community and during programs.
Represents Camp El Tesoro in a positive manner.
Maintain a clean and safe program area.
Report all maintenance and repair needs to the Site Director.
Attend Camp Fire Town Hall Meetings.
Communicate regularly with supervisor about unusual events, special needs, participant concerns and suggestions.
Be able to communicate program purposes and goals in the community.
Support and implement Council goals as assigned.