Outdoor Instructor

Join the Adventure as an Outdoor Instructor! Ready to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Catskill Mountains? Frost Valley YMCA is seeking vibrant and passionate individuals to be a part of our dynamic team. Explore the great outdoors, inspire young minds, and make unforgettable memories at one of the most exciting outdoor education centers!   As an Outdoor Instructor, you'll dive into thrilling outdoor experiences that ignite a love for learning and foster deeper connections. With our Environmental Education, Teambuilding, and Group and Family Retreats programs, you'll lead guided hikes, ecological lessons, team building activities, adventure education, and even conquer exhilarating high and low ropes elements. Rain or shine, you'll engage with students and guests of all ages, bringing the magic of nature to life.   We encourage candidates from all backgrounds, ethnicities, and language proficiencies to join our team. Frost Valley YMCA embraces diversity and aims to showcase our collective heritage in the natural world. Together, we'll create an inclusive and empowering environment.   Frost Valley YMCA seeks to promote an awareness of the interrelatedness of the natural world through the usage of the natural sciences.  We promote deeper connections for our students and guests with the outdoors, with each other, and with themselves.  

Job Overview

Essential Functions:

• Facilitate, plan and implement programs with small groups of students and guests in the areas of ecology, challenge course, group work, outdoor education/recreation, local culture/history, primarily based outdoors. 
• Prepare, develop, and maintain program spaces and resources for use by staff and participants.
• Serve as host and point of contact for school and team building groups.
• Participate in training and development opportunities.

Start and End Dates:

We are looking for passionate and knowledgeable staff to fill our team of  Outdoor Instructors. Now accepting resumes and applications for:

• 2023-2024 School Year:  late August 2023 through mid-June 2024
• Fall 2023 Season:  late August through November 2023

Ready to embark on an adventure like no other? Submit your resume and application today, and become an integral part of our Outdoor Instructor team! Let’s create magical moments and inspire lifelong connections in the heart of the Catskills.

Special Benefits

Exciting Perks and Benefits:

• $15.20 hourly with overtime paid at time and a half
• Housing and meals included-  estimated value of about $7,500/year
• Medical/dental/life insurance effective the 1st of the month, after completing 60 days
• Eligible for YMCA retirement with Frost Valley contributions
• Shared and individual housing on-site with a private room
• Paid holiday days, personal days, and sick time for full time staff
• Relocation reimbursement up to $300 to support your journey
• Receive Frost Valley branded jackets, vests, and shirts for that outdoor adventurer look
• Outdoor pro-deals and Frost Valley store discounts to gear up for your own adventures

Minimum Requirements

Qualifications

• Previous experience working with children and adults, either in classrooms, after school programs, nature centers, outdoor schools or camp setting
• Commitment to working with guests from diverse backgrounds, have empathy and respect for their social and emotional lives
• Effective leadership, teaching, facilitation and communication skills
• A commitment to exceptional guest service, ensuring warm hospitality and attention to detail
• A deep passion for the outdoors, fueled by awe and wonder
• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Environmental Studies, Outdoor Recreation, related fields a plus OR equivalent life experiences
• Hold current First Aid/CPR certifications, or ability to obtain upon hire