Outdoor Education Camp Counselor (2025-2026 School Year)

Adventure Awaits in the Pines — Be the Guide Who Inspires at Camp Oakes!
Camp Description

Oakes is the ultimate camp experience, providing high-quality programs including fishing, rifles, archery, canoeing, and more!

Job Description

YMCA Camp Oakes provides a unique outdoor experience for many guests throughout Southern California. Our mission is to connect young people to the science and wonder of the natural world, igniting self-discovery and inspiring stewardship of the planet. Through our programs, students explore the outdoors, connect with their peers, discover themselves, and develop a lasting relationship with science and the environment around them.

Qualifications

1.      Must be 18 years of age or older.

2.      High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

3.      CPR/First Aid certification required.

4.      CIT or LIT training completion or 1+ years experience working with children and in residential camp environment required.

5.      Experience working with youth in Outdoor Education, Resident Camp, Day Camp, Summer Camp or like setting preferred.

6.      Ability to connect with people of diverse backgrounds.

7.      Physical ability to lead and interact in group activities and perform related physical skills including: standing, hiking and/or climbing for extended periods of time.

8.      Criminal Clearance including Fingerprints.

9.      Health Screening with Negative TB test, and Negative Drug test screening.

10.    Complete all required online training(s).

11.    Must be able to live on-site during program season.

Essential Functions

1.      Supervise participants in Outdoor Education programs.

2.      In-cabin overnight with up to 12 children 3-4 nights a week.

3.      Notifies immediate supervisor of all incidents and when supplies are low and needed.

4.      Assist / responsible for all cabin activities as assigned.

5.      Inspect activity areas, ensure no hazards are present, and set boundaries and the safety and well-being of the participants.

6.      Ensures that respect for the backgrounds, and needs of all participants and staff are integrated into both program planning and implementation.

7.      Maintain positive role model and attitude.

8.      Attend all staff meetings, trainings, and other YMCA functions as required by Supervisor.

9.      Maintain open lines of communication with Branch Directors, Lease Group Leaders, participants, staff and supervisor.

10.    Perform other duties as assigned.

11.    Teach Outdoor Education and/or recreation programming.

12.    Lead activities including (but not limited to) archery, field games, and the climbing tower with good teaching and leadership skills.

13.    Employ good teaching and leadership techniques in providing quality instruction.

14.    Take full responsibility for the program areas of camp or assigned activity, including developing rules and procedures, ensuring adequate program supplies, and maintaining or improving equipment and facilities.

15.    Follow all rules, operating procedures, and instructions, carry and use properly the necessary equipment during activities, and know and follow established emergency procedures.

16.    Ensure the safety and supervision of students and participants.

Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies

Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Y’s values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fund-raising.

Collaboration: Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view, and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others.

Operational Effectiveness: Makes sound judgments and transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience. Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work, and actively participates in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures, and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members.

Personal Growth: Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths, and limitations, and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology

Required Certifications

CPR/First Aid certification
CIT or LIT training completion or 1+ years experience working with children and in residential camp environment
Experience working with youth in Outdoor Education, Resident Camp, Day Camp, Summer Camp, or like setting preferred