Challenge Course Specialist

COMPENSATION:

$410 / Weekly

POSITION DURATION:
May 16, August 1, 2026

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Challenge Course Specialist will be the main enforcer of safety and protocols at our High Ropes Course for the Summer. This person will be responsible for scheduling and communicating with all ropes staff on any given day, and will take point on most facilitations of morning ropes course programming. The Challenge Course Specialist will keep inventory and facilitate daily, weekly, and seasonal inspections and maintenance.

All activity specialists will work closely with the Overnight Camp Coordinator (direct supervisor) and must be comfortable receiving constructive feedback and executing tasks provided by said Coordinator. All Activity Specialists must have a thorough understanding of the YMCA's mission and goals, and a desire to work with children. Leadership skills, enthusiasm, patience, a sense of humor and self-control are all essential. All activity specialists work together on a rotational basis to plan and execute evening programs such as Large Group Games, Campfire Programs, Camp Dance, Camp Out, and have the innovation and creativity skills to do so in a new and exciting manner for our campers and their fellow staff. All activity specialists must want to go the extra mile for an exceptional camper and staff experience.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Leadership:

• Be a role model for & develop positive relationships with camp counselors.
• Actively supervise and support camp counselors, enabling them to provide high quality programming. Hold camp counselors accountable to camp rules and expectations.
• Ensure camp counselors get adequate time off.
• Assist with staff training

Child Development:

• Be a role model for & develop positive meaningful relationships with youth. 
• Provide children with the opportunities to make new friends and learn new activities.
• Be aware of health and safety concerns.
• Ensure that Camp Erdman is a positive and memorable experience instilling a strong desire to return to every camper. 

Programming:

• Provide innovative and fun programming including leading skill tracks and cabin times.
• Operate your program within the Camp Erdman schedule.
• Foster a sense of ownership in programs and facilities.
• Other duties as required that pertain to the operation of a summer camp.
• Attend staff training and meetings.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Bus Driver Certification
  • Extensive climbing experience
• Ropes Certification required
• Must be a high school graduate
• Experience working with children
• CPR/AED and First Aid required
• TB test required
• Ability to be physically active all day

Why the Y?:

• Free Y membership with employment 
• Referral bonuses - Y employees can earn cash or Y credit bonuses for referring a new hire*
• Up to 60% discounts for yourself, family, and even your siblings on Y programs, camps, preschool, childcare, and more.

Child Protection Commitment:

The YMCA requires all staff to share responsibility for preventing child abuse by upholding professional boundaries, completing mandatory Praesidium training, and reporting concerns. All candidates must successfully complete a comprehensive background screening, including criminal and sex offender checks.

Salary : $410