Outdoor Education Instructors - Fall 2026

Ymcachicago; Illinois; On-site; USD 18,222 - 22,727; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Continuous learning opportunities

Discounts on programs

Free YMCA gym membership

Job summary

Ymcachicago is seeking Outdoor Education Instructors to assist with programming at YMCA Camp Duncan in Illinois. This role involves creating a safe and supportive environment, teaching outdoor education classes, and preparing lesson plans. Ideal candidates should be at least 18 years old and have a passion for outdoor activities and environmental stewardship.

Salary begins at $450 per week, with housing provided. The position supports opportunities for growth and a commitment to diverse communities.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age or older.
• Experience leading outdoor activities is preferred.
• Passion for outdoor education and environmental stewardship.

Responsibilities

• Creates a safe and engaging environment for program participants.
• Prepares lesson plans for program activities.
• Teaches Outdoor Educational classes and programs.

Skills

Proficiency in risk management and safety protocols

Excellent verbal communication skills

Strong problem-solving skills

Ability to work effectively with children and young adults

Job description

Description

YMCA Camp Duncan is now hiring Outdoor Education Instructors.

The 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.

Salary starts at $450 stipend per week with housing provided and opportunities to grow within the organization.

Benefits

• 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.

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, this may include 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 18 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 is preferred.
• 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 the job description. The YMCA will provide reasonable accommodation(s) for persons with disabilities.

Child Abuse Prevention

• Reporting any items that may provide a health or safety hazard to staff, members or guests to your supervisor.
• Following all policies and procedures related to keeping children safe in our facilities and programs, including those related to the monitoring and supervision of children.
• Reporting any suspicious behavior and violation of policy and procedures to your supervisor.
• Completing 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.