Retreat Instructor-YMCA Camp Cosby

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 Doing

• Lead engaging, hands-on educational lessons and activities for students
• Teach a variety of topics, including aquatic and forest ecology, wildlife and animal 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
• Facilitate meals and help create a positive, welcoming experience for all participants
• Serve as the primary point of contact for groups while they are 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
• Adapt activities and instruction to meet the needs of different groups and learning styles

Why This Job Is a Great Fit

This 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 & Benefits

• Free YMCA membership for you and eligible household members
• 50% discounts on many YMCA programs, including swim lessons, youth sports, childcare, camps, and more
• Flexible scheduling to help balance work, school, and life
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement within the YMCA
• Work for a mission-driven organization that invests in its employees and community

What We're Looking For

• An enthusiastic, energetic, and adaptable individual who enjoys working outdoors
• A positive role model who demonstrates the YMCA’s Core Values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility
• Someone who enjoys teaching, leading activities, and creating engaging experiences for students
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• The ability to build positive relationships with students, teachers, adult chaperones, and fellow staff members
• A team player who is flexible and willing to support a variety of programs and activities

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years old
• Ability to work a seasonal schedule that may include evenings and outdoor activities
• Ability to lead educational, camp, and adventure-based programs
• Comfortable working outdoors in a variety of weather conditions
• Ability to safely participate in and lead activities such as hiking, team building, and animal education
• Willingness to attend required staff meetings, training sessions, and in-service programs

Expectations

• Maintain a professional, positive, and welcoming attitude
• Be flexible and adaptable when activities, schedules, or program needs change
• Provide active supervision and prioritize the safety and well-being of all participants
• Arrive on time, prepared, and ready to lead assigned activities
• Communicate clearly and respectfully with students, teachers, chaperones, staff, and supervisors
• Create an inclusive environment where all participants feel welcomed, supported, and encouraged
• Follow all YMCA policies and procedures, including those related to child safety and professional boundaries
• Complete required abuse risk management training
• Report suspicious or inappropriate behavior, policy violations, and concerns in accordance with YMCA procedures and mandated reporting requirements

What Success Looks Like

Success 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 Job

At 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 Today

If 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!