Outdoor Education Instructor

Greater Green Bay YMCA•Suring, WI

17h•Onsite

About The Position

Under the general supervision of the Outdoor Education and Retreats Coordinator, the Outdoor Education Instructor delivers school-based educational programs at YMCA Camp U-Nah-Li-Ya by facilitating experiential learning opportunities that promote environmental understanding, personal growth, and positive group experiences.

Requirements

Demonstrated youth leadership experience; strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills; and a cooperative, team-focused attitude.
Desire and ability to work with school-age students and respond to their developmental needs.
Ability and willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions year-round.
CPR and First Aid certification required within 60 days of employment.
Ability to lift up to 30 pounds. Ability to participate in physical activities including hiking, canoeing, and active games.
Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed.
Strong in-person communication skills that adapt to diverse audiences.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Outdoor Recreation, Environmental Studies, Education, or related field preferred.
Lifeguard certification preferred (training available).

Responsibilities

Lead assigned participant groups in outdoor education programming by using structured lessons, positive engagement strategies, and clear expectations to ensure a safe, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate learning experience.
Develop, implement, and teach experiential curriculum by preparing hands-on outdoor lessons (e.g., canoeing, team-building, outdoor living skills, orienteering, cross-country skiing, predator/prey games) to strengthen students’ skills, confidence, and environmental awareness.
Facilitate group activities such as campfires, capture-the-flag, night hikes, and saunas by using effective group management and safety practices to create memorable, community-building experiences.
Maintain program areas, facilities, and equipment by performing routine upkeep, cleanliness, and safety checks to ensure a functional and welcoming learning environment.
Teach environmental education concepts using age-appropriate methods to increase students’ understanding of the natural world and their personal responsibility in caring for it.
Build positive relationships with school chaperones, teachers, and participants by communicating clearly and professionally to ensure a collaborative and supportive program environment.
Identify and mitigate safety risks by conducting regular hazard assessments and responding promptly to concerns to prevent accidents and ensure participant well-being.
Assist the Outdoor Education & Retreats Coordinator in hosting groups by conducting orientations, facilitating welcome and recap meetings, and maintaining open communication to ensure a smooth and positive camp experience.
Provide a safe learning experience by following established lesson plans, risk-management procedures, and group management strategies to maintain participant safety and program quality.
Promote respectful behavior by modeling and teaching care for nature, personal property, equipment, facilities, peers, and adults to support a positive and responsible community culture.
Manage program equipment, supplies, and teaching aids by conducting inventory, identifying repairs or replacement needs, and submitting requests to the Outdoor Education and Retreats Coordinator to ensure program readiness.
Support evening and weekend program operations by assisting with group hosting and participating in special events (e.g., Ski Sale, Open Houses) to contribute to overall camp success (2–3 per season).