YMCA Camp Silver Creek - Outpost Lead and Program Specialist 2026

Description

JOB TITLE: Outpost Lead and Program Specialist

DEPARTMENT: Camp (40) - Camp Silver Creek

REPORTS TO: Assistant Director of Programming

LOCATION: Camp Silver Creek

STATUS: Seasonal

PAY RATE: $684+ DOE/week

Our Culture Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.

Position Summary

Who We Are:

Since 1938, generations of campers have come to experience the joy and beauty of Camp Silver Creek. Located deep inside Oregon's Silver Falls State Park, historic Camp Silver Creek is a magical place for children and adults alike. Towering evergreens and a stream flow through the camp’s four units. In the center of camp, a beautiful field is perfect for field games and the lake welcomes boaters, fishermen, and even the early morning polar bear swimmers. We are actively hiring great role models who are energetic, collaborative, and hard working to join the team for this summer.

The Role:

The Outpost Lead and Program Specialist is responsible for all physical aspects of camp, as well as taking the lead on camp overnights, supporting staff when it comes to outdoor skills, and supporting broader camp programming. They work with the AD of Operations to support the facilities and supplies at camp, support archery instruction, and assign staff and prepare for weekly overnights.

Essential Functions

• In collaboration with the Assistant Director of Programming, oversee the implementation of outdoor skills programming, including fishing, wilderness survival, and archery.
• In collaboration with the Assistant Director of Programming, support broader camp programming by assisting with skill groups, large-group camp games, campfire and twilight programming, and other camp activities as needed.
• Maintain all camp supplies, excluding those for aquatic activities and arts and crafts.
• Support the BOLD & GOLD Director in preparing camp supplies for BOLD & GOLD trips.
• Plan and prepare for all overnights, ensuring adherence to ACA accreditation standards, YMCA policies, and State Park rules and protocols.
• Train staff on overnight procedures and ensure outpost storage areas are organized, with all equipment properly maintained in good condition, inventoried, and secured in accordance with ACA requirements. Develop engaging outdoor activities that emphasize exploration and appreciation of nature.
• Oversee all safety protocols related to archery and bouldering, ensuring compliance with established standards.
• Conduct ongoing staff observations to assess adherence to safety regulations, quality of instruction, and the ability to identify and manage environmental and other hazards related to outdoor skills activities.
• Work closely with the Assistant Director of Operations to ensure overall compliance with all accreditation, organizational, and site-specific standards.
• Participates in required mid-season leadership planning and training sessions to support program quality, staff alignment, and end-of-season readiness.

This job description may not be all inclusive and employees are expected to perform all other duties as assigned and directed by management. Job descriptions and duties may be modified when deemed appropriate by management.

Requirements

Entry Requirements

• At least 18 years of age
• Ability to respond to safety and emergency situations.
• Must be CPR and First Aid certified or willing to become certified within the first 30 days of employment. (Certification classes available upon employment.), Wilderness First Aid Preferred
• Two years of college or equivalent experience in camp-related work preferred
  Prior leadership experience with groups of children in camps, youth programs, educational settings, or community groups
  Experience and knowledge in archery, environmental education, hiking, and other outdoor activities
• USA Archery Level 1 Instructor Certification required, or ability to obtain certification.
• Current Oregon Food Handler’s Certification, or ability to obtain certification.
• Must be available during all of the following date:

June 7 - June 13 (Program Staff Retreat)

June 14 - June 20 (Mandatory All-Staff Training)

June 21 - August 23 (Camp Season & Move-Out)

Note: Off from 1:00pm on Wednesday, July 29th through 4:00pm on Saturday, August 1st.

Physical/Mental Requirements

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

• Must be physically capable of observing and listening for stressful situations at all times.
• Must be physically capable of lifting 40 pounds.
• Must be able to quickly reach a person and/or situation to prevent harm.
• Capable of effective and appropriate mental, emotional and social responses in a constantly changing, youth centered environment.

All candidates must have reliable transportation. Job offers are contingent upon completion of a rigorous criminal history background check.