HiringCafe
Posted 3d ago

Outdoor Program Specialist

@ Olympic Peninsula YMCA
View All Jobs
Sequim, Washington, United States
$19-$21/hrOnsiteAll Commitments Available
Responsibilities:Lead program, Supervise youth, Coordinate schedules
Requirements Summary:Experience with youth; outdoor program leadership; strong safety and communication skills. Ability to supervise, coordinate schedules, and manage equipment.
Save
Mark Applied
Hide Job
Report & Hide
Job Description

Outdoor Program Specialist

Company Overview

The Olympic Peninsula YMCA is a non-profit organization that oversees Y programs and focuses on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Our mission is to build strong minds, bodies, and spirits throughout the communities we serve. We strive to promote the values of caring, respect, responsibility, and honesty. We are open to people of all ages, beliefs,  incomes, races, genders, and abilities.

Job Description

Position: Outdoor Program Specialist – Junior Ranger Angler Program

Job Type: Part-time, Seasonal

Working Conditions: Active, dynamic environment primarily outdoors in varying weather conditions, including parks, trails, shorelines, lakes, and other outdoor recreation sites. Regular local travel and off-site field experiences required.

Schedule: Two 2-week program sessions, full days Monday–Friday

 

* Program dates: Must be available July 6–17 and August 10–21. Onboarding, training, prep time, and debrief are scheduled before and after each session—potential for additional programming beyond the listed dates.

General Function:

The Outdoor Program Specialist assists with the planning, leadership, and daily operation of YMCA outdoor youth programming under the supervision of the Branch Operations Manager. This position will lead the Junior Ranger Angler Program, a four-week seasonal program offered in two, two-week sessions, focused on outdoor exploration, fishing education, environmental stewardship, recreation skills, and youth development.

This role oversees day-to-day program activities, supports participant safety and engagement, manages supplies and schedules, communicates with families, provides staff mentorship and guidance, and ensures compliance with YMCA standards and risk management practices. This seasonal position may expand into additional outdoor recreation and youth programs as opportunities arise.

Key Responsibilities

Program Quality & Youth Experience

  • Lead and support the implementation of the Junior Ranger Angler Program and related outdoor youth activities.
  • Facilitate safe, engaging, and age-appropriate experiences focused on fishing skills, outdoor recreation, environmental education, teamwork, and confidence-building.
  • Supervise participants during all program activities, including transportation, shoreline/waterfront activities, hiking, games, and field experiences.
  • Create a welcoming, inclusive, and positive environment where youth feel connected and supported.
  • Adapt activities based on weather, group needs, skill levels, and safety considerations.
  • Build strong relationships with participants and families; communicate regularly and respond to questions or concerns in a timely manner.

Program Leadership & Operations

  • Coordinate daily schedules, supplies, equipment setup, and activity flow.
  • Maintain inventory and organization of fishing gear, outdoor equipment, first aid kits, and program materials.
  • Assist with staff or volunteers assigned to the program by providing direction, support, and coaching.
  • Serve as lead staff on-site during program hours and ensure smooth daily operations.
  • Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and planning sessions.

Safety, Compliance & Administration

  • Uphold YMCA policies related to youth supervision, transportation, water safety, emergency response, mandated reporting, and professional boundaries.
  • Conduct routine safety checks of sites, equipment, and activities.
  • Maintain accurate attendance, incident reports, medical information, permission forms, and daily records.
  • Ensure participants use equipment safely and responsibly.
  • Support registration, enrollment communication, and program documentation.
  • Follow Leave No Trace principles and model environmental stewardship.

Additional Expectations

  • Complete all YMCA onboarding and required training within designated timelines.
  • Support YMCA events, community partnerships, and fundraising efforts when applicable.
  • Flexible availability for occasional evenings/weekends tied to outdoor events or future programming.
  • All other duties as assigned.