Outdoor Programs Intern: Camp Planning & Education

Campbernieymca; New Jersey; Hybrid; USD 3,000 - 4,000; Full time

Job summary

YMCA Camp Bernie, a branch of YMCA of Ridgewood NJ, seeks an Assistant Program Coordinator intern to support planning for the 2027 summer season and gain hands-on experience in recreation management, outdoor education, and nonprofit camp operations. Under the SVP’s guidance, you will help evaluate 2026 programs, update curriculum, and organize resources.

During fall, assist with Outdoor Education programming and staff training materials, contributing to environmental education and group

Qualifications

• Candidates must be pursuing or have completed a degree in Recreation, Recreation Management, Leisure Studies, Sports and Fitness, Experiential Education, and Education.
• Current NJ undergraduate student
• Current NJ graduate student
• Recent NJ college graduate: must have graduated less than one year prior to the start of the internship experience (Eligible graduate: May 2025-May 2026)
• A current undergraduate student who is a permanent NJ resident
• Previous experience working with children, camps, or youth programs preferred.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Basic computer skills.
• Must successfully complete all required YMCA background checks and training.

Responsibilities

• Assist in evaluating the effectiveness of 2026 summer camp programs and be a part of planning for the 2027 season.
• Help update camp curriculum, themed programming, and activity guides.
• Assist in planning progressive programming for campers of various ages and abilities.
• Support the organization, inventory, maintenance, and storage of program equipment and supplies.
• Develop resources and sample activities for specialty program areas such as woodshop, mountain biking, archery, arts & crafts, and challenge ropes courses.
• Learn best practices for challenge course facilitation, inspection procedures, and risk management planning.
• Assist with creating staff training materials, program manuals, and operational documentation.
• Support administrative projects related to scheduling, supply ordering, and program logistics.
• Assist Outdoor Education staff with facilitating environmental education, teambuilding, and adventure-based learning programs during the fall season, as operational needs allow.
• Contribute to special events, Outdoor Education programming, and other camp initiatives as needed.

Job description

YMCA Camp Bernie, a branch of YMCA of Ridgewood NJ, seeks an Assistant Program Coordinator intern to support planning for the 2027 summer season and gain hands-on experience in recreation management, outdoor education, and nonprofit camp operations. Under the SVP’s guidance, you will help evaluate 2026 programs, update curriculum, and organize resources.

During fall, assist with Outdoor Education programming and staff training materials, contributing to environmental education and group