Lead Program Instructor

COMPENSATION:
$425 / Weekly

POSITION DURATION:
August 8th - December 12th 2026

POSITION SUMMARY:
Under the supervision of the Senior Program Director, this position primarily involves the supervision and leading of a variety of safe and fun Outdoor Education activities with a strong emphasis on Environmental Education and Team Building and communicating with teachers during their trip to Camp Erdman. The Lead Program Instructor will orient teachers upon arrival, answer any questions they have, facilitate programs, set-up (or lead) evening programs for school groups, and be a primary point of contact for a school throughout their trip to Erdman. The Lead Program Instructor 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.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
● Understand and be in accord with the YMCA philosophy, goals, and objectives.
● Be a role model for & develop positive meaningful relationships with youth and staff members.
● Effectively coach and mentor Program Instructors.
● Provide children with the opportunities to make new friends and learn new activities.
● Be concerned with camper development & growth.
● Be aware of health and safety concerns.
● Ensure that each and every camper is included in the group.
● Ensure that Camp Erdman is a positive and memorable experience instilling a strong desire to return to every camper.
● Be consistent in following program policies and standards operating procedures.
● Work toward a team spirit and effort among the staff and children.
● Be on time for work and meetings.
● This position requires the Lead Program Instructor to live on-site at Camp Erdman, in housing as assigned by the Camp Director of School and Retreat Programs.
● Attends training & meetings as assigned.
● Attends YMCA functions as assigned.
● Performs other duties as needed.

WORKING CONDITIONS:
● Works under regular camp conditions.
● Frequently works outdoors in a recreational setting.
● Responsible for appropriate use of all camp supplies; including but not limited to recreational supplies & equipment, office supplies & machines.
● Extended hours as required, some evening and weekend activities and/or training.

QUALIFICATIONS:
● Experience working with children in a camp or outdoor recreational setting required.
● Requires understanding of childhood development and group management in a general camp setting.
● Camp leadership experience required. Education/Training:
● Must possess a high school diploma or GED.
● CPR/AED and First Aid required.
● TB test required.
● Must be able to successfully complete YMCA Camp Erdman’s High Ropes Facilitator Training.
● Must be able to successfully complete YMCA Lifeguard Training.
● College experience preferred.
● YMCA or Red Cross Lifeguard Certification preferred.
● Ropes facilitation experience preferred.

 

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.