Outdoor Education Program Instructor - Camp Surf

YMCA of San Diego County•Imperial Beach, CA
•$609 - $636•Onsite

About The Position

The Overnight Camp Program Instructor delivers engaging outdoor education and recreational programming for campers ages 7–17. The instructor teaches hands-on classes in outdoor education and natural history and leads recreational activities for schools and groups, including activities such as archery, field games, and climbing-tower programming. The role emphasizes camper safety, excellent customer service, careful stewardship of equipment and facilities, and participation in a supportive camp community. The instructor is required to live on-site for the duration of the camp season. On-site housing is provided, with a weekly housing cost deducted from pay, and free on-site meals are included. The schedule is five days per week, Monday–Friday or Wednesday–Saturday. Mandatory staff training begins February 22, 2027, and the season runs February 22 through June 4, 2027. Weekly pay is listed as $608.72–$635.92. The position is exempt from overtime under the stated organized-camp counselor provision.

Requirements

  • High school diploma/GED, or training that ensures the ability to read and write at a level necessary 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 work.
  • At least one year of experience working with children ages 7–17.
  • CPR/AED and First Aid certification covering adults and children/infants, obtained within 30 days of hire and issued by the American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or American Safety & Health Institute.
  • Must live on-site for the duration of the camp season.

Responsibilities

  • Lead diverse recreational activities using effective teaching and leadership techniques, adapting instruction to campers’ different skill levels and needs and encouraging participation.
  • Teach age-appropriate outdoor education and natural history classes to campers ages 7–17.
  • Take responsibility for assigned program areas, including developing operating rules and procedures and maintaining or improving program equipment and facilities.
  • Supervise campers during activities, mealtimes, transitions, and cabin chores.
  • Plan and prepare activities in advance, ensuring materials are ready, areas are safe, and sessions meet learning or recreational goals.
  • Use sound judgment and prioritize campers’ physical and emotional safety.
  • Follow and enforce camp safety rules and operating procedures and implement emergency procedures when necessary.
  • Help maintain clean facilities, care for and inventory equipment and supplies, and steward the natural environment.
  • 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, Program Directors, and Outdoor Education Directors; cooperate with staff and communicate work- or camper-related issues through the Program Coordinator.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

  • Free on-site meals
  • On-site housing provided, with a weekly housing cost deducted from pay
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