Out Camping Equipment Specialist

American Youth Foundation Mission

We dare people to discover and celebrate the very best in themselves and others; inspire them to explore diverse perspectives and complex challenges; and embolden them to live courageously, engaging their full capacity.

Job Summary

The Out Camping Equipment (OCE) Specialist is responsible for the day-to-day management of a large inventory of outdoor adventure gear used by groups of campers as they participate in multi-day backpacking, canoe, and wilderness trips in primitive, backcountry environments. The OCE Specialist provides trip support onsite alongside the Out Camping Food (OCF) Specialist and Logistics Coordinator. Daily responsibilities include keeping an inventory of all equipment, maintaining gear for safety, function, and efficiency, assisting camper groups with gear pack out and returns, and instructing campers on proper equipment use. This role also assists with camp programming as needed.

Job Locations

• Merrowvista – Center Tuftonboro, New Hampshire
• The Merrowvista site necessitates the ability to move through rugged terrain.
• The Out Camping Equipment Specialist lives onsite during staff training and the two camp sessions, including weekends and evenings, to be available 24 hours/day in case of emergencies (except days off).
• Housing and all meals are provided.

Job Type

Seasonal

Company Culture

The AYF believes that how we act and interact reflects who we are as a community. In practice, at the AYF we value investing in youth, stewarding the environment, encouraging participants and staff to explore and develop their values and beliefs, belonging in community, and growing together.

Recognizing the full value of all, the American Youth Foundation affords equal opportunity for employment and program participation to all individuals on the basis of merit and/or eligibility without regard to race, color, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, familial status, religion, national origin, citizenship, disability, age, military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.

Position Responsibilities

• Maintain an organized, clean, and functional equipment space.
• Inventory all gear, order new equipment, and repair items as needed.
• Ensure all camper groups are given the proper gear needed for a safe and successful backcountry trip.
• Manage gear loans for campers and staff who need to borrow personal gear items.
• Lead camper groups in the pack out and return process, providing guidance on best practices.
• Instruct campers and staff on proper use of equipment and basic field repair of gear.
• Clean, repair, and store all equipment appropriately.
• Assist with gear and food resupplies for longer trips, driving to meet groups in the backcountry.
• Participate in all camp programming: early morning and evening activities, meals, and daily reflections.
• Assist with camp programming and provide staff coverage when needed.
• Ensure the safety of campers at all times by following and implementing all safety standards.
• Build relationships with campers to foster friendly, nurturing, and age-appropriate group dynamics.
• Communicate daily with supervisor, attend staff meetings, and follow guidance and instruction from coordinators and directors.
• This is not meant to be a complete list of all responsibilities. Other duties may be assigned.

Skills and Qualifications

Required:

• Minimum age: 18 years old.
• Experience in outdoor adventure education or wilderness trip leading.
• Working knowledge of adventure gear: backpacks, stoves, water filtration, boots, tents, tarps, and clothing.
• Support the organization’s mission and vision with integrity, dependability, and accountability.
• Interact effectively with individuals and groups respecting social and cultural diversity. Establish and maintain appropriate professional relationships and interpersonal skills that contribute to a positive community.
• Demonstrate passion for serving youth, encouraging campers to explore through play and creating a space where youth feel included and a sense of belonging.
• Fully participate in and be present at all camp community activities, including staff training activities.
• Maintain effective mental, emotional, and social interactions in our youth-centered residential summer camp program.
• Ability to handle stressful situations appropriately, maintaining mental, emotional, and social resiliency needed for the job in a fast-paced, interactive environment.
• Use effective and appropriate self-care practices for maintaining overall wellness.
• Follow all guidelines and policies as described in the AYF (American Youth Foundation) staff manual.

Preferred:

• Possess outdoor skills: camping, hiking, canoeing, backpacking.
• Leadership experience, including student, sports, club, team, or community leadership.
• Professional or academic experience in the field of outdoor or experiential education.
• A personality and character that exudes leadership, flexibility, trustworthiness, creativity, energy, inspiration, and positivity.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the individual(s) assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required for this position. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” relationship.