Instructor (Seasonal)

Sherman Lake YMCA; Michigan; Hybrid; USD 14,000 - 18,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free on-site housing

$75-$100/day, pending certifications

Free YMCA membership

Access to mental health supports

$500 recruitment referral bonuses

Job summary

Sherman Lake YMCA's Integrated Education program is seeking Instructors to guide overnight cabin groups and help students reconnect, celebrate successes, and grow social-emotional learning through hands-on outdoor activities. Lead 2–4 night sessions, facilitate climbing, archery, kayaking, and nature activities with a SEL focus, and model YMCA values in a supportive, inclusive environment.

We offer free on-site housing, a daily stipend of $75–$100 (depending on certifications), access to YMCA

Qualifications

• Must be 18+.

Responsibilities

• Lead & supervise overnight cabin groups (2–4 nights/week).
• Facilitate outdoor/camp activities with a SEL lens: climbing, archery, fire building, kayaking, nature, team-building. Training is provided!
• Create a safe, inclusive environment and model YMCA values (Honesty, Caring, Respect, Responsibility)
• Work closely with a collaborative 20+ member instructor team

Skills

Outdoor skills

Facilitation skills

Public speaking

Time management

Teamwork

Tools

Ropes

Lifeguarding

Fire building

Job description

As an Instructor with our school camping program (Integrated Education or “I.E".”), you will help students reconnect with one another, celebrate their successes, and support their social-emotional learning growth while engaging in a fun overnight camp experience.

Why You’ll Love This Role

Make a real impact on 6,000–8,000 youth each year

Build confidence, character & SEL (social emotional learning) skills through outdoor experiences

Join an award-winning, mission-driven program trusted by schools

Fun, supportive team with global staff connections

What You’ll Do

Lead & supervise overnight cabin groups (2–4 nights/week)

Facilitate outdoor/camp activities with a SEL lens: climbing, archery, fire building, kayaking, nature, team-building. Training is provided!

Create a safe, inclusive environment and model YMCA values (Honesty, Caring, Respect, Responsibility)

Work closely with a collaborative 20+ member instructor team

What We Provide

Free on-site housing (laundry, internet, furnished)

$75-$100/day, pending certifications and program specifics

Free YMCA membership

Access to mental health supports

$500 recruitment referral bonuses

Training & Growth

Free certifications (BLS, First Aid, plus optional specialty training)

Technical outdoor skills: ropes, lifeguarding, fire building

Facilitation skills: group management, public speaking, time management, and more

Weekly professional development + ongoing mentorship

Resume-building leadership & teaching experience

Beautiful outdoor setting: trails, lakefront, camp environment

Seasonal structure great for students & travelers

Requirements

18+

Monday - Friday availability with overnights (HALF WEEK POSITIONS AVAILABLE, Monday - Wednesday or Wednesday - Friday)

Team-oriented and adaptable

Able to meet physical job needs

Willing to complete required certifications (provided)

Dates of Employment:

This is a seasonal, full-time position. Positions are available during the Fall (early September-early December) and Winter/Spring (early February - early June). Free certification courses are available for Sherman Lake Integrated Education staff before staff training.