Backpacking and Leadership Counselor

Overview

YMCA Camp Shaver serves New Mexico as an amazing Traditional overnight camp experience. Located in the Jemez Mountains we have been around since 1945 making lasting memories for the lives of our campers and staff. We care about helping people reconnect with the natural world, and hope that you will join us for a summer of lasting friendship and growth.

Our Backpacking Lead will oversee making sure our multi-day backpacking trips for our LIT (leaders in training) program run smoothly and with the support they need. You will be a positive role model and guide for our leadership campers while in camp or out on trail. You will help this program by supporting the core values of the YMCA: Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility through your actions and intentional conversations throughout the program.

Schedule is Monday-Friday, and weekends as assigned for the season.  

Summer Season 

• Staff Training Begins: May 23, 2026

• Season Ends: August 1, 2026

This job announcement is not intended to be inclusive of all functions, responsibilities and qualifications associated with the position, however, representative of the essential job functions and typical criteria considered necessary to successfully perform the position.

Responsibilities

• Maintains constant surveillance of campers and always ensures their safety.
• Knows and reviews all emergency procedures and responds appropriately to emergency situations. Completes related reports as required.
• Plans and implements program activities that are culturally relevant, developmentally appropriate and consistent with the YMCA core values.
• Maintains positive relationships with members, participants, families and other staff.
• Able to collaborate and communicate well with a team.
• Must be a positive role model for campers and staff.
• Possess good judgment and decision-making skills.
• Desire to mentor youth and lead with positive reinforcement.
• Attends and participates in all staff meetings and trainings.
• Follows YMCA policies and procedures, including those related to medical and disciplinary situations, child abuse prevention and emergencies.

Qualifications

• Wilderness First Responder (preferred) or Wilderness First Aid certified or willing to obtain such before employment.
• Backpacking experience – preferably having done so with groups.
• Knowledge of Leave No Trace principles and practices.
• Fit enough to travel for multiple days with a loaded frame pack over variable terrain.
• Outdoor leadership skills and desire to empower campers with knowledge and practice of said skills.
• Knowledge of GPS use and map reading.
• Ability to coordinate and work with a variety of staff and campers from different backgrounds.

Benefits

• Employee discount

Posted Salary Range

Salary : $480