Job Description
Summer Camp Specialist - Outdoor Adventure (Blue Hills at Ponkapoag)
Department: Child Development: Day Camp
Employment Type: Seasonal - Full Time
Location: Ponkapoag
Compensation: $17.50 - $21.00 / hour
Join our team as a Summer Camp Specialist at the breathtaking Blue Hills at Ponkapoag, where adventure awaits amidst nature's wonders. As a Specialist, you'll inspire and guide campers through a summer of exploration, learning, and fun in the great outdoors. This position is offered through the YMCA of Greater Boston, a leading organization dedicated to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
Key Responsibilities
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Outdoor Programming: Develop and lead engaging outdoor activities and programs tailored to various age groups, fostering a love for nature and adventure. Activities may include hiking, wilderness skills, outdoor games, nature walks, and more.
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Safety Oversight: Ensure the safety and well-being of all campers during outdoor excursions and activities. Implement and enforce camp safety protocols, including emergency procedures and risk management strategies.
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Skill Instruction: Teach campers basic outdoor skills such as knot tying, navigation, and outdoor STEM, fostering confidence and independence in nature.
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Environmental Education: Educate campers about the natural world, local ecosystems, and environmental conservation through interactive lessons and hands-on experiences.
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Team Collaboration: Work collaboratively with fellow staff members to plan and coordinate camp activities, ensuring a cohesive and enriching experience for all campers.
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Camper Engagement: Foster a supportive and inclusive camp environment where campers feel encouraged to try new activities, build friendships, and grow personally and socially.
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Positive Role Modeling: Serve as a positive role model for campers, demonstrating enthusiasm, patience, and a genuine passion for outdoor adventure and environmental stewardship.
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Administrative Tasks: Assist with various camp administrative tasks as needed, including equipment maintenance, inventory management, and daily activity planning.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
Qualifications:
- Previous experience working with children in a camp, outdoor education, or recreational setting preferred.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and connect with campers of diverse backgrounds and abilities.
- Knowledge of outdoor recreation and environmental education principles, including safety protocols and risk management strategies.
- Certification in wilderness first aid, CPR, or lifeguarding is a plus.
- Ability to work independently as well as part of a team, with a flexible and adaptable attitude in a dynamic camp environment.
- Passion for the outdoors, environmental conservation, and inspiring others to appreciate and protect nature.
Additional Information:
- Position Type: Seasonal (Summer Only)
- Location: Blue Hills at Ponkapoag (Canton, MA)
- Schedule: Full-time, Monday to Friday, with occasional weekend duties during camp sessions.
- Duration: Early June to August 30th (extended dates may be available)
- Compensation: Competitive hourly rate, commensurate with experience, training and education.
