Climbing & Challenge Director - YMCA of Greater Seattle

We have a strong commitment to equity

The Y actively promotes a culture free from bias and injustice. We are dedicated to removing institutional and systemic barriers that result in oppression and racism. We will be accountable to marginalized communities for creating equitable and sustainable environments where social justice is woven into every facet of our programs, and by caring for our communities in a culturally versatile and respectful manner.

Tell me about this job!

The Challenge Course Program Director directs the program development of the assigned program area(s) at Camp Orkila/Camp Colman in Orcas Island, WA/Longbranch, WA. This position provides direct supervision to overall operation of adventure program and challenge course counselors.

The Director is a member of the Resident Camp management team and works with other on-site managers to ensure the successful operation of all camp programming. 

To learn more about working with Camp & Outdoor Leadership at the Y, please visit us online at www.campingandoutdoorleadership.org

What you'll get from working at The Y

• Membership to the YMCA of Greater Seattle for you and your household
• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life insurance
• Retirement with generous employer contributions
• Free access to mental health resources
• Rapidly-accruing paid time off (PTO) available immediately upon hire
• Discounts on qualifying YMCA of Greater Seattle childcare and day camp programs

*Some benefits only available to full-time staff

The YMCA of Greater Seattle is committed to providing a positive atmosphere that prioritizes safety and inclusivity for all employees. The YMCA of Greater Seattle has implemented safety standards and protocols related to preventative health measures based on CDC and local health department guidelines.

What you'll be doing

• Supervises campers and staff using the Challenge Course. Ensures that all staff are accounting for campers and safety at all times.
• Plans, schedules, and facilitates program activities that are developmentally appropriate and which promote camper skill and character development, e.g. village and cabin activities and skill periods.
• Maintains safety and cleanliness standards. Takes special note of individual camper/staff health needs or concerns on a daily basis. Shares cleaning duties with fellow staff.
• Ensures that counselors are planning and organizing activities.
• Communicates personal or camper/staff needs to supervisor in a timely manner.
• Maintains equipment in sound and safe order.
• Ensures proper documentation of challenge course usage, including (but not limited to) ropes use logs, equipment checks, and more.
• Attends meeting and trainings.
• Maintains current ACCT certification for self and attends annual professional development opportunities.
• Partners with Camp's full time Challenge Course Manager to address any safety or procedural concerns that may arise.
• Follows YMCA policies and procedures, including those related to medical and disciplinary situations, child abuse prevention, program and equipment inspection written documentation, and emergencies.
• Other duties as assigned.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

This job operates at a seasonal residential camp, both inside and outdoors. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

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.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear.  The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.  This position requires the ability to occasionally lift store or janitorial products and supplies, up to 50 pounds.

POSITION TYPE/EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK

This is a full-time, shift position.  A typical shift is 8:30am-5:00pm with a 30-minute, unpaid lunch break.  The usual camp workweek is six day on and one day off, including training, staff meetings, and regular duties. 

TRAVEL

This position is required to live onsite at camp. Travel is primarily local during work shifts, although some out-of-the-area travel may be expected.  This is an Authorized Driver position, read more in the Position Requirements.

Code of Conduct for Applicants

What we're looking for in an applicant

• Current W-EMT, WFR, and WFA certification*
• Current state approved first aid certification*
• Current state approved CPR certification*
• Ability to mentor staff in technical backcountry skills, including backpacking, rock climbing, paddling, and mountaineering
• Bachelor’s degree in relevant program or equivalent education or experience.
• Two years or more of related experience, with proven experience in training others.
• One or more years of experience with staff and volunteer supervision, program development, and budget management.
• Experience with and knowledge of youth behavior management and child abuse prevention.
• Intermediate computer skills and experience with Microsoft Office suite.

This position requires driving:

This is a safety-sensitive role that requires transporting clients as an “authorized driver” for the Y. Potential offers will be contingent upon meeting the following conditions: Being 21+, having a valid driver's license for at least three years and possessing a driving record that meets Y standards (no more than two moving violations within the last three years, no significant incidents such as reckless driving, DUI/DWI, no tickets 20+ miles above the speed limit etc. within the last 5 years). You must also pass a drug screen that will test for impairing substances, including marijuana.

If applicable, "Other combinations of applicable education, training, and experience which provide the knowledge, abilities, and skills necessary to perform effectively in the position may be considered."

Preferred Education/Experience

• Level 2 Challenge Course Certified or have the ability to become certified within 6 months.
• Current W-EMT, WFR, and WFA certification*
• Current state approved first aid certification*
• Current state approved CPR certification*
• Master’s degree in relevant program or a closely related field from an accredited school.
• Prefer knowledge of and previous experience with, diverse populations (language, culture, race, physical ability, sexual orientation, etc.). Ability to speak any language in addition to English may be helpful.
• Experience with anti-racism practices and coalition building.

Our Mission

Building a community where all people, especially the young, are encouraged to develop their fullest potential in spirit, mind, and body.

YMCA of Greater Seattle's Core Values

• Respect
• Responsibility
• Honesty
• Caring
• Passion for Excellence

YGS is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a diverse and equitable work environment.  Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by local, state, or federal law.

All job offers are contingent on the results of a background check. We participate in the Federal E-Verify system.