Adventures Youth Programs Instructor (4128U), Recreation & Wellbeing - #84057

University of California, Berkeley; Berkeley (CA); On-site; USD 25,253 - 35,967; Part time

Job summary

The University of California, Berkeley is looking for a Youth Camp Instructor for its Cal Youth Camps. This position involves offering sports, recreation and leadership opportunities to children during summer sessions. Candidates should have a high school diploma and strong communication skills.

The role includes maintaining a supportive environment and providing guidance to other instructors. The hourly pay is approximately $22.22 with positions part-time, and flexible hours. Ideal for those passionate about working with children in a recreational setting.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of program activity practices and procedures.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment and reasoning.
• Entrepreneurial spirit and creative thinking skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide specialized activity instruction to groups.
• Maintain supportive environments for program participants.
• Lead other camp counselors and guide program instructors.

Skills

Communication skills (verbal and written)

Active listening

Critical thinking

Time management

Client service mindset

Education

High school diploma or equivalent experience

Tools

Basic computer programs

Job description

About Berkeley

At the University of California, Berkeley, we are dedicated to fostering a community where everyone feels welcome and can thrive. Our culture of openness, freedom and belonging makes it a special place for students, faculty and staff.

As a world‑leading institution, Berkeley is known for its academic and research excellence, public mission, diverse student body, and commitment to equity and social justice. Since our founding in 1868, we have driven innovation, creating global intellectual, economic and social value. We are looking for applicants who reflect California's diversity and want to be part of an inclusive, equity‑focused community that views education as a matter of social justice.

Departmental Overview

The Department of Recreation & Wellbeing provides competitive and recreational opportunities for students, faculty, staff and campus‑affiliated community members. In addition to the 30 sports clubs, the department offers a wide range of recreational activities and state‑of‑the‑art equipment.

Position Summary

Cal Youth Camps offer sports, recreation and leadership opportunities to hundreds of children every summer. Cal Adventures activities include sailing, sea kayaking, rock climbing, stand‑up paddleboarding, windsurfing, general outdoor recreation and leadership development.

Application Review Date

The first review date for this job is 02/16/2026. This is an ongoing hiring process with multiple positions available. Applications will be regularly assessed and hiring will occur at various points throughout the year. The job listing will remain open for as long as applications are accepted.

Responsibilities

• Provides advanced or specialized activity instruction to program participants, individually or in groups.
• Maintains a supportive environment for program participants and facilitates involvement.
• May lead other camp counselors and provide guidance and instruction to other program instructors on best practices, procedures, methods and techniques on program activities.
• Interacts with recreational program participants in a positive manner.
• Maintains professional relationships with participants and other staff, and supports the development of an empowering work environment.
• Broadens knowledge of teaching methods, techniques and skills through continuing education.
• Keeps current on teaching methods, techniques and skills through continuing education and certification.
• May certify participants in various activities.
• Participates in required professional development activities, including University‑required online training courses and specialized local trainings before employment begins and throughout employment.

Required Qualifications

• Working knowledge of program activity practices and procedures.
• Verbal and written communication skills in English, active listening, critical thinking, multi‑tasking, time management skills, and dynamic flexibility in adapting to the needs of clients.
• Ability to exercise independent sound judgment and employ reasoning skills.
• Client service minded, entrepreneurial spirit and creative thinking skills.
• Basic skills in computer programs relevant to job duties.
• Knowledge of and/or can quickly learn campus policies and procedures.
• High school diploma and/or equivalent experience/training.

Preferred Qualifications

• Standard First Aid Training Certification.

Salary & Benefits

For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University, please visit the University of California's Compensation & Benefits website. Under California law, the University of California, Berkeley is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role and should not offer a salary outside of the range posted in this job announcement. The budgeted hourly rate that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is $22.22.

• 3–6‑month, part‑time, variable‑hours contract appointment.
• Non‑exempt, biweekly‑paid position.
• Although classified as 30% FTE, from May through August the individual in this role works up to 40 hours per week for the duration of the summer period only.

How to Apply

• Submit your resume and cover letter.

Driving Required

• Required to hold a valid driver's license, have a driving record that is in accordance with local policies/procedures, and/or enroll in the California Employer Pull Notice Program.

Other Information

• This is not a visa opportunity. This position does not include sponsorship of a new consular H‑1B visa petition that would require payment of the $100,000 supplemental fee.
• This recruitment has 23 openings.

Conviction History Background

This is a designated position requiring fingerprinting and a background check due to the nature of the job responsibilities. Berkeley does hire people with conviction histories and reviews information received in the context of the job responsibilities. The University reserves the right to make employment contingent upon successful completion of the background check.

Mandated Reporter

This position has been identified as a Mandated Reporter required to report the observed or suspected abuse or neglect of children, dependent adults, or elders to designated law enforcement or social service agencies. We reserve the right to make employment contingent upon completion of signed statements acknowledging the responsibilities of a Mandated Reporter.

Misconduct

SB 791 and AB 810 Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.

"Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant’s previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the Employer. For reference, UC’s policies addressing some forms of misconduct include:

• UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
• UC Anti‑Discrimination Policy
• Abusive Conduct in the Workplace

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.