Retreat Instructor-YMCA Camp Cosby

Ymca; Alpine (TX); On-site; USD 17,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free YMCA membership

50% discounts on YMCA programs

Flexible scheduling

Opportunities for professional growth

Job summary

YMCA is seeking an Outdoor Education Instructor to lead hands-on lessons for students in outdoor settings. You will teach ecology, animals, gardening, and navigation, while guiding team-building activities and outdoor adventures such as night hikes and campfires.

You’ll safely engage participants, serve as the main on-site contact, and participate in staff trainings and meetings to support a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Qualifications

• Ability to lead educational, camp, and adventure-based programs.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work a seasonal schedule including evenings.
• Willingness to attend staff trainings.

Responsibilities

• Lead engaging, hands-on educational lessons and activities for students.
• Teach topics: aquatic and forest ecology, wildlife adaptations, sensory awareness, organic gardening, maps, orienteering, living history, and more.
• Facilitate team-building activities that encourage communication, collaboration, and personal growth.
• Lead outdoor adventure experiences, including night hikes and campfire activities.
• Safely handle and educate participants about small captive animals.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for groups while on site.
• Participate in weekly scheduling meetings, staff meetings, and required in-service training.
• Assist with projects that improve program resources and enhance the physical camp site.

Skills

Teaching

Outdoor leadership

Communication

Teamwork

Adaptability

Job description

Inspire Curiosity, Lead Adventures, and Help Students Connect With Nature!As a Retreat Instructor, you’ll create meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that encourage students to explore the outdoors, build confidence, and discover the world around them. From leading educational activities and adventure experiences to facilitating meals and evening programs, you’ll serve as a positive role model while bringing the YMCA’s Core Values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility to life.What You'll Be DoingLead engaging, hands-on educational lessons and activities for studentsTeach a variety of topics, including aquatic and forest ecology, wildlife and animal adaptations, sensory awareness, organic gardening, maps, orienteering, living history, and moreFacilitate team-building activities that encourage communication, collaboration, and personal growthLead outdoor adventure experiences, including night hikes and campfire activitiesSafely handle and educate participants about small captive animalsFacilitate meals and help create a positive, welcoming experience for all participantsServe as the primary point of contact for groups while they are on siteParticipate in weekly scheduling meetings, staff meetings, and required in-service trainingAssist with projects that improve program resources and enhance the physical camp siteAdapt activities and instruction to meet the needs of different groups and learning stylesWhy This Job Is a Great FitThis position is perfect for someone who enjoys the outdoors, loves working with students, and is excited to make learning active and memorable. Every day brings new opportunities to teach, explore, lead adventures, and help young people build confidence and a deeper appreciation for nature.Perks & BenefitsFree YMCA membership for you and eligible household members50% discounts on many YMCA programs, including swim lessons, youth sports, childcare, camps, and moreFlexible scheduling to help balance work, school, and lifeOpportunities for professional growth and advancement within the YMCAWork for a mission-driven organization that invests in its employees and communityWhat We're Looking ForAn enthusiastic, energetic, and adaptable individual who enjoys working outdoorsA positive role model who demonstrates the YMCA’s Core Values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and ResponsibilitySomeone who enjoys teaching, leading activities, and creating engaging experiences for studentsStrong communication and interpersonal skillsThe ability to build positive relationships with students, teachers, adult chaperones, and fellow staff membersA team player who is flexible and willing to support a variety of programs and activitiesRequirementsMust be at least 18 years oldAbility to work a seasonal schedule that may include evenings and outdoor activitiesAbility to lead educational, camp, and adventure-based programsComfortable working outdoors in a variety of weather conditionsAbility to safely participate in and lead activities such as hiking, team building, and animal educationWillingness to attend required staff meetings, training sessions, and in-service programsExpectationsMaintain a professional, positive, and welcoming attitudeBe flexible and adaptable when activities, schedules, or program needs changeProvide active supervision and prioritize the safety and well-being of all participantsArrive on time, prepared, and ready to lead assigned activitiesCommunicate clearly and respectfully with students, teachers, chaperones, staff, and supervisorsCreate an inclusive environment where all participants feel welcomed, supported, and encouragedFollow all YMCA policies and procedures, including those related to child safety and professional boundariesComplete required abuse risk management trainingReport suspicious or inappropriate behavior, policy violations, and concerns in accordance with YMCA procedures and mandated reporting requirementsWhat Success Looks LikeSuccess in this role means students are engaged, safe, and excited to learn. You’ll help create memorable outdoor experiences that encourage curiosity, teamwork, confidence, environmental awareness, and a greater connection to nature.More Than Just a JobAt the YMCA, you’ll do more than teach—you’ll help young people discover new interests, develop important life skills, and create lasting memories. As an Outdoor Education Instructor, you’ll be part of a mission-driven team that uses the outdoors to inspire learning, personal growth, and a stronger connection to the community.Apply TodayIf you’re ready to teach, explore, lead adventures, and help students discover the world around them, apply today and make a lasting impact with the YMCA!