Program Instructor

YMCA of Honolulu - Camp Erdman

YMCA Camp Erdman has been serving youth on the island of O'ahu since 1926.  Ultimately, Camp Erdman's goal is to establish a progressive cycle of service to impact every youth on O'ahu, connecting participants to Ike Hawaii and embracing Aloha Āina through innovative and educational programs.  The outdoor education program plays a vital role in this goal and can serve upwards up 400 students per week.  

Camp Erdman is located directly between the mountains and ocean and offers a variety of programming, including, marine biology, island ecology, hiking, ropes courses, archery, swimming pool, team building, and so much more! Be a part of a great team, with a great purpose, from August - December of 2024.  

---

PRIMARY PURPOSE: Under the supervision of the Camp Director of Outdoor Education and Outdoor Education Assistant Director, this position primarily involves the leading of a variety of safe and fun Outdoor Education activities. The Program Instructor will fill the roles of friend, mentor, and role model for all campers, primarily grades 4th-12th. The Program Instructor must have a thorough understanding of the YMCA’s mission and goals, and a desire to work with children. Leadership skills, enthusiasm, patience, a sense of humor, and self-control are all essential. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES /FUNCTIONS:

• Understand and be in accord with the YMCA philosophy, goals, and objectives. 
• Be a role model for & develop positive meaningful relationships with youth. 
• Provide children with the opportunities to make new friends and learn new activities.
• Be concerned with camper development & growth.
• Be aware of health and safety concerns.
• Ensure that each and every camper is included in the group.
• Ensure that Camp Erdman is a positive and memorable experience instilling a strong desire to return to every camper. 
• Be consistent in following program policies and standards operating procedures. 
• Work toward a team spirit and effort among the staff and children. 
• Be on time for work and meetings. 
• This position requires the Program Instructor to live on-site at Camp Erdman, in housing as assigned by the Camp Director of Outdoor Education.  

PERIODIC DUTIES:

• Attends training & meetings as assigned. 
• Attends YMCA functions as assigned. 
• Performs other duties as needed.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Works under regular camp conditions.
• Frequently works outdoors in a recreational setting.
• Responsible for appropriate use of all camp supplies; including but not limited to recreational supplies & equipment, office supplies & machines.
• Extended hours as required, some evening and weekend activities and/or training.

Equipment Use:

• Operates a YMCA vehicle as needed.
• Various program equipment.

Work Hours:

• Schedule includes weekends, holidays and evenings as the program schedule dictates. 

MENTAL/EMOTIONAL DEMANDS:

• Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths, and limitations and how they impact relationships.
• Pursues self-development that enhances job performance.
• Ability to be flexible, patient, and kind to all staff, campers, and community members. 
• Be open to criticism, suggestions, and training from other staff. 
• Take initiative to research and develop new creative activities to enhance the overall program. 
• Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for participants.
• Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member/participant experience.
• Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another.
• Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work and actively participates in meetings.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Ability to be physically active all day.
• Ability to move through unimproved areas.
• Ability to lift and move tables, chairs, equipment and other supplies, approximately 35-50 lbs.
• Ability to assist in emergency situations (fire, evacuation, illness, or injury) and possess strength and endurance required to maintain constant supervision.
• Comfortable working at a height above 50ft. 

COMMUNICATION DEMANDS:

• Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view, and remains calm in challenging situations.
• Builds rapport and relates well to others. 
• Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively.
• Takes initiative to assist in developing others.
• Instruct children in a variety of activities with enthusiasm and creativity. 
• Recognize and respond to opportunities for the group so that each individual experiences success.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

Skills/Knowledge:

• Experience working with children in a camp or outdoor recreational setting is required.
• Requires understanding of childhood development and group management in a general camp setting. 

Education/Training: 

• Must possess a high school diploma or GED.
• CPR/AED and First Aid required.
• TB test required.
• Must be able to successfully complete YMCA Camp Erdman’s High Ropes Facilitator Training. 
• Must be able to successfully complete YMCA Lifeguard Training. 
• College experience is preferred.
• YMCA or Red Cross Lifeguard Certification preferred. 
• Ropes facilitation experience preferred. 

Salary and Benefits

• Program Instructor shall be a seasonal, non-exempt employee.
• On-site, seasonal housing provided at no cost to employees. Housing includes gas, electric, water, and sewer utilities at no cost. Housing assignment is made at the discretion of the Camp Director of Outdoor Education, and per separate, written agreement. 
• Access to any meals that are also provided to program participants.
• Competitive training and professional development opportunities. 
• Base Salary: $400 per week.