Program Instructor - School Groups & Retreats

YMCA Of Greater Hartford

Posted 2 months ago

Full Time

Town of Northumberland, New York

In Person

Smart Summary

Responsibilities

Plan and deliver engaging outdoor education and recreation programs for diverse groups while serving as a positive role model. Ensure the physical and emotional safety of all participants and maintain camp facilities and equipment.

Qualifications

We are seeking a Program Instructor to lead engaging outdoor educational programs for school groups and retreats. The ideal candidate will have experience working with youth and adults in outdoor or educational settings, strong communication and organizational skills, and the ability to adapt to changing environments. A commitment to the YMCA mission and values, along with CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain it), is required.

Job Description

Position Title: Program Instructor - School Groups & Retreats

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Reports To: Program Director

Salary Starts at $600/week

Position Summary

At Camp Jewell YMCA, Program Instructors bring learning to life in the outdoors. Under the direction of the Program, this role delivers engaging, high-quality programming for Outdoor Education, Conference, Retreats, and Family Programs.

This position plays a vital role in advancing the YMCA’s mission of youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility—helping participants build confidence, connect with nature, and create lasting memories.

Qualifications & Requirements

- Experience working with youth and adults in outdoor or educational settings

- Ability to adapt to changing schedules, weather, and program needs

- First Aid/CPR certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days).

- Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills

- Commitment to the YMCA mission and values

- Ability to model YMCA core values: Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility

Key Responsibilities

- Plan and deliver engaging lesson plans aligned with group goals and curriculum standards

- Lead high-quality outdoor education and recreation programs for schools, families, and community groups

- Serve as a positive role model for campers, students, and fellow staff

- Ensure the physical and emotional safety of all participants at all times

- Welcome participants and families with professionalism and enthusiasm

- Communicate program expectations and provide clear instructions

- Collaborate with team members and contribute to staff meetings

- Set up, maintain, and properly store program equipment and materials

- Maintain cleanliness of camp facilities, including program spaces, cabins, and shared areas

- Follow all safety procedures and report incidents or concerns promptly

- Support additional camp operations as needed

Physical Requirements

- Ability to stand or sit for extended periods

- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds

- Ability to hear, see, and respond to environmental and safety cues

- Capable of performing physical activities including climbing, bending, kneeling, reaching, and walking

- Comfortable working primarily outdoors in varying weather conditions

Housing provided along with meals when guests are onsite.

YMCA Of Greater Hartford

The YMCA of Greater Hartford is an association open to all and committed to helping people develop their God-given potential in spirit, mind and body. Our commitment is based on the belief that the purpose of this three-fold development is to live out the values of our Judeo-Christian heritage, including caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. Our vision is to be the premier provider of high quality values-driven programs. We believe that by teaching core character value of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility, we can achieve our mission and vision for the people of Greater Hartford. The YMCA of Greater Hartford consists of 12 branches and two resident camps providing more than 100 programs in Hartford, Tolland and Windham counties. •Downtown YMCA in Downtown Hartford •East Hartford YMCA in East Hartford •Farmington Valley YMCA in Granby •Glastonbury Family YMCA in Glastonbury •Hale YMCA Youth and Family Center in Putnam •Indian Valley Family YMCA in Ellington •Tri-Town YMCA in Wethersfield •West Hartford YMCA in West Hartford •Wheeler Regional Family YMCA in Plainville •Wilson-Gray YMCA Youth and Family Center in the North End of Hartford •Camp Jewell in Colebrook •Camp Woodstock in Woodstock CT
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