Outdoor Education Hourly Instructor - Fall 2026

Ymcachicago; Illinois; On-site; USD 22,868 - 23,556; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Continuous learning opportunities

Discounts on programs

Free YMCA gym membership

Job summary

YMCA Camp Duncan is seeking Outdoor Education Instructors for Spring 2026 to assist in providing engaging outdoor education programs. Responsibilities include supervising program participants, teaching outdoor classes, and preparing lesson plans. Ideal candidates should have a passion for outdoor education and excellent communication skills.

This position offers $16.60-$17.10 per hour, based on qualifications and certifications, along with various employee perks such as continuous learning opportunities and a supportive work environment.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 16 years of age or older.
• Experience leading outdoor activities such as canoeing or team-building.
• Ability to work effectively with children and young adults.

Responsibilities

• Create a safe and supportive environment for program participants.
• Teach Outdoor Educational classes and programs.
• Prepare lesson plans and ensure materials are ready for activities.

Skills

Ability to work effectively with children

Proficiency in risk management and safety protocols

Strong verbal communication skills

Passion for outdoor education

Flexibility and adaptability

Job description

YMCA Camp Duncan, Ingleside, IL 60041, USA

Description

YMCA Camp Duncan is now hiring Outdoor Education Instructors for Spring 2026!

Outdoor Education Instructor is responsible for assisting the Program Director in providing and facilitating the overall Outdoor Environmental Education and Group Services programming. The Group Services Specialist plays a key role in ensuring that program participants have a safe, supportive, interactive, and enriching program experience while ensuring safety and security of all program participants.

Pay is $16.60/hour - $17.10/hour depending on certifications and qualifications

Our staff is the Y's greatest asset. Our teams provide valuable skills, knowledge, and passion that is essential to the contribution and positive impact in our communities, which is why we offer Y employees numerous perks and benefits, including:

• Continuous learning opportunities through workshops and training programs.
• Supportive work environment valuing diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Discounts on programs, free YMCA gym membership, employee assistance programs, and company-sponsored events.

Being flexible to work various hours which are dependent on customer needs is very important. Some days start very early, and some run late. Evenings and weekends may be required.

Scope of Responsibilities

• Creates a safe, supportive, interactive and engaging environment for program participants.
• Provides effective supervision of program participants that is age‑appropriate, considers diverse abilities and interests and meets program quality, safety and policy requirements.
• Positively interacts with program participants and other team members to create a respectful, warm, supportive environment.
• Serves as a positive role model for students, guests, campers, and staff peers.
• Prepares lesson plans on a daily and/or weekly basis outlining program activities, ensures materials and supplies are available and ready for daily program activities.
• Ensures all program areas and supplies are clean and well maintained regularly.
• Teaches Outdoor Educational classes and programs to schools and retreat group rentals, including campfires and evening programs outside of scheduled program hours.
• Assists Program Directors in hosting group rentals at camp.
• Participates in team meetings and other special events.
• Supports other departments as needed.
• Participates in all mandatory training sessions and in‑service workshops to enhance skills and knowledge, ensuring compliance with organizational standards and best practices.

Requirements

• Must be at least 16 years of age or older.
• Ability to work effectively with children, young adults, or other program participants in a camp setting.
• Proficiency in risk management and safety protocols related to outdoor activities.
• Experience leading outdoor activities such as outdoor education, canoeing, rock climbing, or team‑building exercises in a variety of camp experiences.
• Must have proven ability to establish constructive relationships and interact as a positive role model for program participants and staff demonstrating the values of respect, responsibility, caring and honesty.
• Commitment to and passion for the YMCA of Metro Chicago’s mission is required including a passion for working with diverse communities.
• Excellent verbal communication skills, including the ability to clearly and concisely present ideas and concepts and tailor communication to multiple audiences.
• Passion for outdoor education and environmental stewardship.
• Flexibility and adaptability to changing situations and schedules.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and the ability to work as part of a team.

Strong ability to communicate effectively with others.

Must be able to commit to one season and commit to working 40+ hours a week.

• Must be willing and flexible to work various hours/shifts including nights and weekends.
• Meets physical qualifications required as outlined in job description. The YMCA will provide reasonable accommodation(s) for persons with disabilities.

Preferred Behaviors

• Enthusiastic: Shows intense and eager enjoyment and interest.
• Team Player: Works well as a member of a group.
• Flexibility: Inspired to perform well when granted the ability to set your own schedule and goals.
• Growth Opportunities: Inspired to perform well by the chance to take on more responsibility.

Child Abuse Prevention

• Reports any items that may provide a health or safety hazard to staff, members or guests to your supervisor.
• Follows all policies and procedures related to keeping children safe in our facilities and programs, including those related to the monitoring and supervision of children.
• Reports any suspicious behavior and violation of policy and procedures to your supervisor.
• Completes all child abuse prevention training as required.

Equal Opportunity Employer. This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.