CCO Day Camp Activity Specialist

Join us as Day Camp Activity Specialist in the Rocky Mountains, coordinating trips and staff for teen wilderness programs!
Camp Description

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.

Job Description

The CIT Program Director will oversee the Counselor in Training (CIT) program, schedule and supervision of campers in the program. They will serve as a member of the summer Admin team, coordinating with cabin counselors to ensure excellence in camper and staff experience and program delivery. The CIT Director will facilitate CIT camper’s development of skills in leading activities, outdoor living, and how to work with children. This role will lead a multi-day backpacking trip, provide camper feedback and debriefs. A willingness to comply with YMCA driving rules and Colorado Department of Transportation regulatory requirements to be approved to operate YMCA vehicles is required. 

Qualifications

REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS: 

  • Minimum of 21 years of age 

  • 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.  

  • Experience working with youth in a summer camp setting  

  • Current certification in Wilderness First Aid or willingness to obtain certification 

  • Relevant combination of education, training and/or experience related to outdoor education, backpacking, backcountry travel and living 

  • Possess effective leadership, supervisory, administrative, organizational and communication skills  

  • Ability to prioritize tasks and efficiently manage time 

  • Basic understanding of computer systems and networks  

  • Must have current certification in CPR/First Aid or be willing to obtain certification 

  • All other duties as assigned 

Essential Functions

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 CIT PROGRAM DIRECTOR:  

  • Training 

  • Participate in Admin and staff training prior to working with campers   

  • Assist with the coordination and implementation of curriculum for staff training. Evaluate trainings after delivery.  

  • Train seasonal staff on how to engage CIT campers during shadowing periods  

  • Train campers on the skills and policies needed for meaningful participation in the program 

  • Educate campers to a Leave No Trace Level 1 certification 

  • Supervisory 

  • Co-lead backpacking trip the first week of each CIT program and subsequently supervise campers throughout duration of their camp session   

  • Act as “on-duty” staff for one stayover weekend throughout the summer   

  • Program 

  • Become familiar with total camp program 

  • Work effectively in a shared leadership position 

  • Become familiar with backpacking route, activities, and emergency procedures 

  • Participate as a member of the summer Admin team to plan, direct, and supervise summer camp programs and functions  

  • Ability to observe staff and camper behavior, assess its appropriateness, enforce safety regulations and emergency procedures  

  • Responsible for CIT camper assignments to special activities and cabin counselor pairings 

  • Coordinate with Leadership and Trips Director on camper events including off property days and service projects  

  • Facilitate camper development of skills in summer camp traditions/activities, outdoor living, and facilitation  

  • 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  

  • 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. 

  • Assist with Trail Department duties and organization, food packing and trip logistics as needed 

  • Meetings 

  • Meet with campers several times a week to monitor progress and address questions and concerns  

  • Meet with each camper individually at the end of their session to present written feedback and discuss potential roles at CCO in the future  

  • Meet weekly with cabin counselors about camper performance, feedback and coaching 

  • 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 CIT program, facilities, equipment and recommendations for the future 

Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies
  • 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 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