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The YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth is looking for a cause-driven leader to join the team.
Job Description
The Outdoor Education Program Coordinator is responsible for delivering year-round outdoor education programming at YMCA Camp Carter, with a focus on implementing STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) and outdoor education activities in both regular programming and summer camps. This role collaborates with the Senior Program Coordinator to provide meaningful learning experiences, manage camp logistics, and ensure all participants have a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience. Additionally, this position supports the dining services coordination, maximizes program registrations, and works closely with other departments to enhance the camp's overall offerings.
Qualifications
- Education: Associate's Degree in Education, Recreation, Environmental Science, or a related field preferred. Equivalent experience will be considered.
- Experience: 1-2 years of experience in outdoor education, camp programming, or event coordination, especially in youth and community settings.
- Skills:
- Strong leadership and communication skills.
- Experience with outdoor education and working with youth.
- Excellent organizational skills for coordinating activities, meals, and logistics.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and collaborate effectively across departments.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and Outlook).
Essential Functions
- Outdoor Education Program Implementation: Plan and lead outdoor education programs throughout the year, including environmental education, STEAM activities, team-building exercises, and other outdoor learning opportunities.
- Summer Camp STEAM & Outdoor Education Integration: Coordinate STEAM and outdoor education components within the summer day and overnight camp programs, ensuring activities align with camp themes and educational goals.
- Dining Services Coordination: Coordinate dining services for day and overnight camps, ensuring that dietary needs are met and meal service runs smoothly. Work closely with kitchen staff and program teams to integrate mealtime into camp schedules effectively.
- Cross-Departmental Collaboration: Collaborate with the Program Experience Director and Retreats and Community Events Coordinator to align outdoor education and camp programming with broader camp and community initiatives.
- Camper & Participant Engagement: Actively engage with campers and program participants, fostering a positive and inclusive environment. Address any participant concerns during activities or meals.
- Staff & Volunteer Support: Assist in training camp counselors, outdoor instructors, and volunteers, providing resources and guidance to support effective program delivery and camp logistics.
- Program Setup & Execution: Oversee setup and breakdown of program areas, meal spaces, and activity stations, ensuring that all equipment and materials are prepared, maintained, and in safe working condition.
- Safety & Risk Management: Implement and uphold safety protocols for all activities, including dining services and outdoor education programs. Foster a culture of safety among staff and participants.
- Program Registration & Growth: Take an active role in securing and maximizing program registrations for outdoor education and summer camp. Develop promotional strategies, communicate with prospective families, and meet registration goals.
- Communication with Parents and Groups: Serve as a primary contact for parents, school groups, and other participants, providing updates on program activities and addressing any inquiries to ensure participant needs are met.
- Participant Feedback Collection: Collect feedback from participants, parents, and group leaders to evaluate program success and identify areas for improvement.
- Administrative Support: Assist with registration, scheduling, and record-keeping for outdoor education and camp programs, ensuring efficient operations and accurate attendance records.
- Support Senior Program Coordinator: Collaborate with the Senior Program Coordinator to meet attendance, engagement, and revenue targets for outdoor education and camp programs.
- Cleanliness and Maintenance: Perform duties necessary to maintain cleanliness and upkeep of premises and program areas, creating a welcoming and well-maintained environment for participants.
Required Certifications
- CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications (or ability to obtain upon hire).
- Wilderness First Aid or outdoor education-related certifications are a plus.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
- Ability to lift up to 25 pounds, set up equipment, and work on uneven terrain.
- Flexible schedule, with availability for evenings, weekends, and overnight stays during summer camp.