Camp Chief Ouray is the residential camp for kids at YMCA of the Rockies. Making a difference in the life of a young person, learning skills that will help you throughout future jobs, and gaining lifelong friends in the process is a wonderful way to spend your summer. Join us! All positions listed on our website under About > Work at CCO.
Only 20 minutes to Rocky Mountain National Park, Camp Chief Ouray offers scenic views in every direction. The camp is located on the property of Snow Mountain Ranch in Granby, Colorado.
The Backpacking/Adventure Leader provides 24-hour support with guidance, supervision, safety and comfort for participants during all activities. You will co-lead groups of up to ten campers through outdoor activities that may include: mountain biking, backpacking, horse packing (outfitted), white-water rafting (outfitted) and rock climbing (outfitted). Sessions are either one-week programs designed to expose campers to outdoor recreation or two-week programs designed to build competency in outdoor living and leadership skills. A willingness to comply with YMCA driving rules and Colorado Department of Transportation regulatory requirements to be approved to operate YMCA vehicles is required.
REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS:
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Minimum of 21 years of age, and have experience working with youth in a summer camp setting Willingness to comply with YMCA and Colorado Department of Transportation rules to be approved to operate YMCA vehicles, including 15-passenger mini-buses. Must conduct all vehicle operations within the DOT Regulatory Requirements that apply to the position's specific driving duties. Must have a valid US Driver's license or, if required, a Commercial Driver's License. Must have a satisfactory driving safety record (Verified by MVR Review) Must have the ability to obtain a DOT Medical Card (Complete DOT Physical) in order to perform driving duties. Drivers must pass a pre-employment drug test. Drivers must complete a YMCA driver training program. Relevant combination of education, training and/or experience related to outdoor education, leadership training, backcountry travel and living Ability to prioritize tasks and efficiently manage time Current certification in Wilderness First Aid or willingness to obtain certification Must have current certification in CPR/First Aid or be willing to obtain certification All other duties as assigned
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS FOR ALL CAMP CHIEF OURAY STAFF:
Create a safe space for all campers, families, and staff. Promote safe work practices to allow for development and growth for all.
Possess the social and emotional skills necessary to build rapport and positive relationships, putting camper needs first
Respond to camper and customer requests for service, troubleshoot problems and develop solutions in a patient and respectful manner.
Contribute to a cooperative and positive camp community, be a team player
Be able to work inside and outside in all weather conditions
Be able to hike on rugged terrain
Be responsible for the upkeep of the camp facility and cleanliness of camp. Report any repairs in a timely manner.
Assist other departments as needed
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS FOR BACKPACKING/ADVENTURE LEADER:
Training
Participate in staff training prior to working with campers
Train campers on the skills and policies needed for meaningful participation in the program
Program
Become familiar with total camp program
Lead outdoor activities (e.g. mountain biking, hiking, and rafting trips) with the help of outside vendors when applicable
Follow and educate campers on safety protocols to ensure safety and wellbeing of participants
Responsible for checking the safety and operation of all equipment prior to each trip, keeping it in working condition and reporting any damage upon return
Work effectively in a shared leadership position
Maintain the cleanliness of the living space to which your group is assigned
Create and distribute a program journal/handbook for all campers at the start of each session
Keep journal or record of each camper and their progress. This might also include a daily record of activities and notable incidents
Assume weekend camp responsibilities for one weekend of the summer
Meetings
Meet with each camper individually for a mid-session and end of session check-in to discuss their progress and provide feedback
Meet with your co-leader following completion of each session to discuss successes and areas for improvement
Meet with Leadership and Trips Director for your pre-season goals, mid-season and end of season feedback
Reports/Evaluations
Complete and present written feedback to each camper at the end of their session
Write an end of season report of the program, facilities, equipment and recommendations for the future
Uphold and reflect the YMCA core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, Responsibility and Faith in all functions
Uphold the YMCA of the Rockies Mission, policies, and programs
Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism is required
Possess excellent customer service skills; for example, friendly, personable, helpful, patient, and professional
Support the Association's safety program. Promote safe work practices and a safe environment for guests, members, and staff
Promote a cooperative, positive, and flexible atmosphere while working with others in a diverse environment
Must meet acceptable criminal background check standards
Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus
All other duties as assigned