Camp Program Specialist II

Careers by Empowering Futures, Building Communities  

Imagine going to work each day knowing that your efforts positively impact individuals and communities. As a global movement and the nation's leading nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, the YMCA of Greater San Francisco offers more than just a job—we offer a career with a future and the opportunity to make a lasting difference in your community. At the Y, you can uncover your passion and build a lifelong career addressing some of the nation's most pressing social issues. 

Our Organizational Culture  

At the YMCA of Greater San Francisco, we are committed to demonstrating values that aim to building strong communities where you can Be, Belong and Become. With Truth & Courage, we strive to understand and act on individual and societal truths. We ensure a safe and inclusive environment with Authenticity & Accessibility, allowing everyone to participate according to their needs. Our approach is Dependable & Creative, as we respond to community needs through strong partnerships. Above all, we embody Dignity & Empathy, treating everyone with respect and compassion, and recognizing the inherent dignity in all individuals. 

Position Summary 

The Resident Camp Program Specialist II works closely with Cabin Leaders to create a safe, supportive, and dynamic environment for campers, while also taking on greater responsibility in planning and executing camp programs. The role involves living in a cabin with campers and fellow staff, facilitating activities such as the climbing tower, zip line, archery, canoeing, hiking, and arts and crafts, and supporting evening and all-camp events. Responsibilities also include collaborating with Cabin Leaders to support camper well-being, setting up and breaking down program areas, assisting with evening programs, and providing additional cabin support as needed. 

Job Responsibilities 

• Provide responsive service to program participants, ensuring their needs are met. 

• Collaborate with Cabin Leaders to support camper well-being and deliver a cohesive camp experience. 

• Facilitate advanced-level activities, including climbing, zip lining, archery, canoeing, hiking, and arts and crafts, with a focus on safety and engagement. 

• Mentor and support less experienced Program Specialists and Cabin Leaders. 

• Set up and maintain program areas, ensuring all equipment is safe and properly managed. 

• Assist in planning and leading evening programs and camp-wide events. 

• Build respectful and meaningful relationships with staff, parents, and campers. 

• Maintain a professional demeanor in interactions with others. 

• Supervise and live with a cabin group, following the camp schedule to meet campers' needs. 

• Ensure health, hygiene, and safety are top priorities for all campers. 

• Support campers in understanding and appreciating their environment. 

• Recognize and encourage campers for personal growth and positive behavior. 

• Provide cabin support as assigned, including assisting Cabin Leaders with camper supervision. 

• Maintain appropriate camper discipline following camp standards. 

• Ensure compliance with YMCA, ACA, and all regulatory standards to maintain a safe environment. 

• Accurately complete and submit required reports, including incident reports, health logs, and timecards. 

Work Environment & Physical Demands 

The Program Specialist position involves working closely with campers in an outdoor, collaborative, and safety-focused setting. Leaders will reside in cabins with campers, ensuring supervision and well-being overnight. The role requires physical stamina, mobility, and the ability to lift equipment, lead activities, and assist campers as needed. Extended periods of standing, walking, and participation in physical activities are expected, along with flexibility for long, variable hours, including overnight shifts. Meals and lodging are provided for the duration of the summer camp program. 

Disclaimers 

• All duties and responsibilities are essential job functions subject to reasonable accommodation. The YMCA of Greater San Francisco promotes an equal employment opportunity workplace, which includes reasonable accommodation for otherwise qualified disabled applicants and employees. Please contact your manager if you have any questions about this policy or these job duties. 

• This job description may not be all-inclusive, and employees are expected to perform other duties as assigned by management. Job descriptions and duties may be modified by management as needed. 

• Job offers are conditional and contingent upon background clearance. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance and CA Fair Chance Act, we will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records for employment. 

Salary Description 

The Program Specialist II position offers a compensation range of $677.60 per week. This rate is based on salary benchmarking for similar roles and is aligned with grant fund approvals and requirements for the position. 

• Requirements 

  • Must be 18 years or older. 
  • 2 or more years of experience in a camp, youth program, or equivalent setting, with an emphasis on leadership in programming or activities. 
  • Proficiency in leading specialized activities such as climbing, zip lining, canoeing, or similar. 
  • Ability to work effectively with individuals of diverse ages, backgrounds, and experiences. 
  • First Aid and CPR certification (within 30 days of hire). 

   

  Preferred Skills and Experience: 

  • 1 or more summers experience at YMCA Overnight summer camp. 
  • Experience facilitating programming for youth, including archery, arts & crafts, outdoor education, hikes, etc