Outdoor Education & Retreats Instructor - Camp Potawotami

Imagine going to work knowing that what you do each day positively affects the lives of the people in your community. While working at YMCA Camp Potawotami, you’ll discover more than a job—you’ll enjoy making genuine connections and unforgettable experiences in the lives of those around you. Join us at YMCA Camp Potawotami for professional development, camp leadership responsibilities, and excellent programming! We are hiring Outdoor Education Instructors to facilitate OE groups, gain professional skills, build their resumes, and take on summer leadership roles. OE instructors will work with students of all ages, families, and adult groups, providing a variety of outdoor experiences.

Why you’ll love YMCA Camp Potawotami

• Personal Development: You’ll have many opportunities for free training and certifications, as well as opportunities to advance and potentially find a long-term career. 
• Housing & Meals: OE & Retreat Instructors are required to live on-site, and food is provided.
• Fulfillment: Experience a flexible schedule while working for a company that cares about you personally and is actively involved in our community! 
• YMCA Membership: As a part-time staff member, you will receive a free individual membership, or 50% off family membership, 50% discounted programs at Y branches for you and your household, and 40% discount for you and your family at camp.

Responsibilities 

• Lead: You will lead small group meetings, teach classes, and facilitate various activities. You will be a friendly, caring leader at camp. You will maintain the camp’s safety and procedures while also embracing the ‘controlled chaos’ whenever possible.
• Collaborate: The voice of everyone at camp matters. You will work with diverse staff and guests from all over to create an inclusive, engaging experience.
• Create: Create fun, unique experiences for our campers and families. You will be encouraged to create and implement new activities and/or programs with the assistance of the Program Director.
• Hospitality: With a “Guest First” philosophy, you will create a welcoming, supportive environment for all visitors. You will learn to create ‘magic’ in everything that you do.
• Support: Supporting patrons and staff alike to create an equitable experience. Camp is for all, and some folks need some extra support to get the most out of camp. 
• Activities: Programs that instructors teach include but are not limited to canoeing, teambuilding, rock climbing & high ropes, lake study, survival skills, archery, predator/prey, low ropes, and pioneer life. Evening programs include but are not limited to campfires, night awareness, Olympics, and our Potawotami Trail. 

Requirements 

Candidates must be committed to contributing to the mission, culture, and values of YMCA Camp Potawotami and the YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne as well as…

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must have a high school diploma or the equivalent.
• Must have experience working with youth in a camp or outdoor setting.
• Breadth of knowledge about the outdoor environment
• Excellent communication, supervisory, and organizational skills.
• Excellent human relation skills and enthusiasm.
• Basic math skills and demonstrated recordkeeping proficiency.
• An elevated level of organization, flexibility, and ability to handle difficult situations effectively.
• Successfully complete within 60 days of hire: CPR/First Aid/O2 Certification, Bloodborne Pathogen training, Child Abuse Prevention training, and all other required training as specified by your supervisor.

Commitment Details

• Commitment: Seasonal (now- October 30, 2026)
• Starting at $89 per day 

Location:  YMCA Camp Potawotami is located on beautiful Blackman Lake in Northeast Indiana; 7255 East 700 South, Wolcottville, IN 46795