Weekend Facilitator: Camp Surf

The Weekend Facilitator is responsible for delivering high-quality, engaging outdoor education and recreational programming for campers (ages 7-17). This position leads various recreational activities, such as archery, climbing wall, marksmanship, canoeing, and hiking, for highly curious minds. This position anticipates the needs of campers and provides a unique and memorable service experience. The Weekend Facilitator ensures the safety of all participants by strictly enforcing rules, maintains meticulous care of program equipment and facilities, and is committed to delivering excellent customer service while actively contributing to a strong, supportive camp community. 

For more on Employee Perks, click on this link: Employee Benefits | YMCA of San Diego County (ymcasd.org)

Schedule:

Must be available 2-3 weekends per month

• Employs excellent teaching and leadership techniques while leading diverse activities, including (but not limited to) archery, field games, and specialized recreational elements like a climbing tower; actively participates in all camp activities with enthusiasm, encouraging maximum camper participation and adapting instruction methods to accommodate diverse skill levels and needs. 
• Teaches engaging, age-appropriate educational classes focusing on outdoor education and natural history to campers (ages 7-17). 
• Takes full responsibility for assigned program areas, including developing specific operating rules and procedures, and maintaining or improving program equipment and facilities. 
• Actively assumes supervision of campers at all times and proactively identifying and addressing camper needs to ensure a seamless service experience. 
• Plans and prepares all assigned activities in advance, ensuring materials are ready, areas are safe, and the session meets established learning or recreational goals. 
• Exercises sound judgment and make conservative decisions, prioritizing the physical and emotional safety of the campers above all else. 
• Consistently follows and enforces all camp safety rules and operating procedures and implements camp emergency procedures when necessary. 
• Demonstrate a strong sense of investment in the camp, including maintaining the cleanliness of facilities, ensuring the proper care and inventory of equipment and supplies, and practicing stewardship of the natural environment; participates in various general camp chores, which may include cleaning assigned cabins and bathrooms, assisting with evening programs, special events, and contributing to larger projects as requested by the Program Director. 
• Follows directives given by the Program Coordinators, Program Directors, and Outdoor Education Directors and works effectively and cooperatively with all staff members; communicates work- or camper-related issues through the Program Coordinator. 
• Other duties as assigned. 

• Formal education, usually obtained by a 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 science, education, recreation, or a related field AND, 
• Years of Experience 
• A minimum of six (6) months of experience in outdoor education or related experience. 
• A minimum of one (1) year of experience working with children ages 7-17 
• Visual and auditory ability and physical capacity to quickly identify, assess, and respond effectively to critical incidents and emergencies.  
• Ability to adequately observe participant activities, consistently enforce safety regulations, and correctly apply appropriate camp policies and procedures to mitigate risk. 
• Possesses the physical ability to lead and interact in group activities and perform related physical skills including standing, walking, hiking, and/or climbing for extended periods of time, often outdoors in various weather conditions. 
• Competency in planning, organizing, and preparing materials and spaces required for daily activities, ensuring sessions start on time, are well-structured, and executed smoothly. 
• Excellent verbal communication skills and a warm, approachable demeanor when interacting with children, parents, and community members. 
• Ability to utilize hands-on teaching methods and strong leadership skills to deliver high-quality, memorable instructional sessions and manage groups effectively in an outdoor setting. 
• Competency in natural history, ecology, and outdoor recreation, with the ability to translate complex concepts into engaging, age-appropriate lessons for campers (ages 7-17). 
• Ability to work cooperatively and collaboratively within a staff team, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability when schedules change or unforeseen program needs arise. 
• CPR/AED, and First Aid Certification, must include Adult and Child/Infant, obtained within 30 days of hire and must be from one of the following certifying organizations:
  
  • American Red Cross
  • American Heart Association
  • American Safety & Health Institute