JOB TITLE : Leader-In-Training Director / Program Specialist
DEPARTMENT : Camp (40) - Camp Greider
REPORTS TO : Camp Director
LOCATION : Camp Greider
STATUS : Seasonal
PAY RATE : $640 DOE / week
Our Culture
Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming : we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine : we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful : we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing : we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined : above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.
Position Summary
Camp Greider has been offering unique and high quality summer camps to youth, ages 6-15 since 1978. Instruction in a variety of specialty topics is combined with a well-rounded outdoor summer day camp program experience at our beautiful location out in West Salem. A convenient check in / out location at the downtown Salem Y, and extended daytime hours add to the popularity. Youth attend one or more weeks throughout the summer. Age appropriate groups are kept to a small, 1 : 8 ratio of adults to youth for a fun summer experience for all.
The L.I.T. Director & Program Specialist serves a dual role at camp :
- During the Leader-In-Training (L.I.T.) program weeks, they act as the L.I.T. Director, guiding participants through leadership training activities and fostering their growth as emerging leaders within the camp community.
- During all other camp weeks, they serve as the Program Specialist for Specialty Camps, responsible for planning and delivering high-quality, introductory and intermediate instruction for campers in Greider Discovery and Greider Outdoors programs.
This role requires a dynamic leader who excels in both mentorship and instruction, ensuring a transformative experience for both L.I.T.s and specialty camp participants throughout the summer.
Essential Functions
Leadership in Training (L.I.T.) Responsibilities :
Work with the Camp Director, Camping Services Director, and Camp Silver Creek L.I.T. Director to plan and design all aspects of the L.I.T. program.Assume directorship of the L.I.T. Program upon its start, leading all activities, training, and mentorship for L.I.T. participants.Provide coverage and support for any staff role as needed.Ensure the health, welfare, and safety of campers under their supervision.Maintain open communication with the Assistant Directors and Camp Director regarding the needs of staff and campers.Assist in various camp areas as needed, including providing group coverage when necessary.Communicate with families at check-in and check-out as needed.Participate in all training, activities, classes, and planned sessions during pre-camp weeks.Collaborate with the Camp Director and Camping Services Director to help design and implement staff training.Foster a positive, cooperative working relationship with fellow staff, campers, and the camp community.Demonstrate a commitment to quality, YMCA core values, and enthusiasm for working with youth of all ages.Support and contribute to a safe, clean camp environment for staff and guests.Maintain knowledge of association policies, procedures, risk management, and safety practices.Support the YMCA's overall mission through camp programming and leadership.Program Specialist Responsibilities (Instructional Camps) :
Plan and deliver age-appropriate lessons aligned with camp curriculum and learning objectives.Lead instructional camp sessions (2 hours per day, 5 days a week).Work with campers ages 8-15, divided into appropriate age groups (e.g., 8-9, 10-12, 11-13).Manage groups of 8-16 campers in instructional settings, with the support of camp counselors.Prepare, inventory, and maintain equipment before, during, and after activities.Submit activity plans and supply requests in advance.Set up and take down the program area daily.Work within a budget, prioritizing efficiency and resourcefulness.Co-teach and collaborate with another instructor when required.Create and maintain a fun, inclusive, and safe environment for all participants.Engage camp counselors, chaperones, or other staff to assist with activities.Foster continuity, structure, and routines to enhance participant experience.Work with camp staff to ensure consistent discipline, organization, and adherence to program policies.Maintain open communication with the Camp Director and staff regarding any program needs or concerns.This job description may not be all inclusive and employees are expected to perform all other duties as assigned and directed by management. Job descriptions and duties may be modified when deemed appropriate by management.
Requirements
Entry Requirements
Must be at least 18 years old by the start of the camp seasonTwo years of college or equivalent experience in camp-related work preferredPrior leadership experience with groups of children in camps, youth programs, educational settings, or community groupsExperience and knowledge in teen leadership programs, and prior work with adolescents ages 13-15Prior experience developing and implementing curriculum for school aged youth, preferably in a camp settingSupervisory experience, particularly in peer leadership, preferredStrong desire and ability to work with children and teensAbility to understand and prioritize the needs of campers and the camp community over personal needsStrong communication and interpersonal skills for working effectively with peers, supervisors, and childrenComfortable working in an outdoor environment and able to foster an appreciation for nature among campersDemonstrates flexibility, maturity, and the ability to work independently with minimal supervisionEnjoys working and interacting with people of all ages and backgrounds, with a special emphasis on children, while modeling and promoting the YMCA's core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibilityAbility to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic backgroundsMust be CPR and First Aid certified or willing to obtain certification within the first 30 days of employment (training provided upon hire)Lifeguard certification encouragedMust hold a valid Oregon Food Handler's Certification before the first day of employmentIndividual is capable of effective and appropriate mental, emotional and social responses in a constantly changing, youth-centered environmentMust be available during all of the following date :June 8 - June 14 (Program Staff Retreat)
June 15 - June 21 (Mandatory All-Staff Training)
June 23 - August 23 (Camp Season & Move-Out)
Physical / Mental Requirements
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Physically able to accompany campers to and participate in all camp activities.Able to communicate verbally with campers and to provide instructions.Possess visual and auditory ability to respond to critical incidents and physical ability to act swiftly in emergency situations.Able to observe camper behavior, respond to health and safety concerns and deal appropriately with camper behavior.Able to work long hours including nights and weekends.Able to work outdoors in varying weather conditions (rain, heat etc).Capable of effective and appropriate mental, emotional and social responses in a constantly changing, youth centered environment.All candidates must have reliable transportation. Job offers are contingent upon completion of a rigorous criminal history background check.
Salary Description
640 DOE / week
Salary : $640
