Adventure and Outdoor Education Site Director - YMCA Camp Elks

The YMCA of Northern Colorado is seeking passionate, motivated, and experienced individuals to lead our Camp Elks programs as Site Directors. If you’re a nature-loving leader who thrives on creating positive, fun, and safe outdoor experiences for kids, we want you on our team! We’re looking for staff who are 21 years or older and dedicated to helping children explore, learn, and create lasting memories through outdoor adventure and education. At Camp Elks, campers will experience the beauty and challenge of the natural world. From hiking through the Colorado mountains to learning archery, swimming, and rock climbing, our campers will have the opportunity to build confidence, teamwork, and outdoor skills while connecting with the environment. If you’re ready to help kids explore the great outdoors, inspire adventure, and promote environmental stewardship, come join us for one of the most rewarding summers of your life!

● Training: Required training will take place from May 19-23, 2025.
● No Weekends: Enjoy your weekends free!
● Seasonal Position: May 27th through August 8th, with opportunities to extend into school year programs (before and after school care).

The YMCA was founded as the Young Men's Christian Association in 1844. But today, we are The Y, an association that values and is made stronger by its diverse people. At the YMCA of Northern Colorado, we are committed to equal opportunity employment regardless of gender, age, disability, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or religious affiliation.

• Engage & Inspire: Lead campers in nature-based activities and outdoor adventures like hiking, swimming, archery, rock climbing, and horseback riding. Inspire curiosity and a love for the outdoors.
• Plan & Innovate: Implement creative, high-quality camp programs focused on outdoor education, exploration, and environmental awareness, aligned with YMCA standards.
• Staff Management: Supervise a team of staff to ensure smooth day-to-day operations and a positive, safe camp experience for all.
• Safety First: Ensure that YMCA program standards are met and safety procedures are followed at all times, especially in outdoor and adventure-based activities.
• Program Quality: Oversee the implementation of engaging programming that supports children’s growth, self-confidence, and connection to nature.
• Maintain High Standards: Adhere to YMCA policies, CDHS licensing requirements, safety protocols, and cleanliness standards, especially in outdoor settings.
• Communication & Collaboration: Build positive relationships with staff, campers, parents, and the community while maintaining open communication with supervisors and other YMCA locations.
• Crisis & Emergency Management: Follow YMCA emergency procedures and ensure staff are trained to handle any situation, including outdoor-specific emergencies.
• Flexibility & Adaptability: Be on time for all shifts and flexible with scheduling changes to accommodate the needs of the camp.
• Discipline & Guidance: Implement positive guidance and preventative discipline techniques according to YMCA standards, fostering respect and personal growth.
• Record Keeping: Maintain accurate records, including staff files, child files, attendance logs, and other necessary documentation.
• Budget & Supplies: Monitor and manage the camp site budget, ensuring that all necessary supplies and materials for outdoor activities are available and in good condition.
• Additional Responsibilities: Attend staff meetings, training sessions, and other YMCA events as needed. Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor

• Must be 21 years or older.
• Previous experience working with children in a leadership or supervisory role is preferred.
• Enthusiastic, responsible, and dependable.
• Bilingual candidates (Spanish/English) are strongly encouraged to apply.
• CPR and First Aid certification (we can provide this).
• At least one of the following:
  • A four-year degree in a related field OR
  • 48 semester hours of college credit AND 910 hours of verifiable experience working with children since turning 18 OR
  • 5640 hours of experience working directly with school-age children in a group setting.