Teen Trip Leader

YMCA Of Greater Seattle•Eastsound, WA
•Onsite

About The Position

Teen Trip Leaders guide teen participants on sea kayaking trips and one-week or multi-week outdoor adventures at Camp Orkila. The programs include Leadership Development and Initiative (LDI) courses, which combine wilderness travel with youth work experiences, challenge-course activities, and service projects at camp and in the Orcas Island community. Other courses send teens into the San Juan Islands for wilderness expeditions focused on adventure, peer-to-peer leadership, and skill development. Leaders may work on both types of courses during a typical summer. This is a full-time, seasonal role based at a residential camp. Staff live onsite for the duration of employment, in shared cabins with campers or shared staff housing depending on the position and availability. The usual workweek is six days on and one day off, including training, staff meetings, and regular duties. Work takes place indoors and outdoors, and work-related travel is conducted by YMCA-authorized drivers. The position is exempt from minimum wage and overtime regulations under Washington State law. The YMCA describes a commitment to equity, social justice, and culturally respectful programs. Employees are expected to follow abuse-prevention policies, maintain appropriate boundaries, complete required training, report suspicious or inappropriate behavior, and comply with mandated reporting requirements. Job offers are contingent on a background check, and the organization participates in the Federal E-Verify system.

Requirements

  • Must be 21 years of age or older.
  • Current Wilderness First Aid and CPR certifications.
  • Documented skills in one or more of kayaking, rock climbing, and backpacking.
  • Skills in teen leadership development.
  • Willingness and ability to meet the rigorous physical demands of the position.
  • Ability to participate in rigorous outdoor activities, including hiking, boating, camping, and swimming.

Nice To Haves

  • Current Wilderness First Responder or WEMT certification is very strongly preferred.
  • Lifeguard certification is strongly preferred.
  • Ability to meet YMCA driving requirements is preferred.
  • Current food handlers permit is preferred.
  • Knowledge of and previous experience with diverse populations, including differences in language, culture, race, physical ability, and sexual orientation.
  • Ability to speak a language in addition to English may be helpful.
  • Experience with anti-racism practices and coalition building.

Responsibilities

  • Supervise participants at camp and in the field, ensuring they are accounted for and safe.
  • Participate in staff meetings and trainings.
  • Ensure program outcomes are met.
  • Ensure the health and safety of participants and staff.
  • Teach participants proper equipment use and ensure equipment is well maintained.
  • Maintain communication with the supervisor as directed.
  • Communicate personal or camper needs to the supervisor in a timely manner.
  • Follow YMCA policies and procedures, including those related to medical and disciplinary situations, child abuse prevention, and emergencies.
  • Accept other duties as assigned.
  • Adhere to abuse-prevention policies, maintain appropriate boundaries, complete required training, report suspicious or inappropriate behavior, and comply with mandated reporting requirements.

Benefits

  • Membership to the YMCA of Greater Seattle.
  • Free access to mental health resources.
  • Paid time off that accrues rapidly and is available immediately upon hire.
  • Discounts on qualifying YMCA of Greater Seattle childcare and day camp programs.
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