Our experiential curriculum focuses on the following content areas:

• Local ecology
• Native Ohlone culture
• Green building and renewable energy
• Challenge course (high & low ropes)
• Freshwater ecology
• Team building and climbing wall
• Organic gardening
• Regional Park Geology & Watersheds

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Naturalist’s expectation during a typical week:

• Teaching environmental education curriculum to groups of 14-16 students
• Developing experiential, inquiry-based lesson plans
• Facilitating community-building initiatives with groups
• Orienting participants to program areas, including dining hall and cabins
• Leading two to three meals in dining hall
• Leading one to two structured activities during student recreation time
• Working two evening programs (skit nights, night hike, or dance)
• Assisting with the prep, maintenance, and clean-up of program supplies and areas
• Participating in staff development
• Working 1-2 weekend programs monthly
• Other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS

• Knowledge/Familiarity with curriculum above or the passion and desire to learn and grow
• Musical and Acting abilities are a BIG plus
• Ability to effectively work in diverse teams or with a diverse range of people
• Experience working with a diversity of youth from all socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Challenge/ropes course experience preferred
• Positive behavior management skills
• Ability to work flexible hours
• Four-year degree or 1-3 years relevant work experience strongly preferred
• Current First Aid and CPR certification, with AED training
• Lifeguard certification, WFR/WFA/EMT certifications, and language skills are highly desirable
• Flexibility, a positive attitude and a sense of humor are required!

WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL & COGNITIVE REQUIREMENTS

• Must have the physical, visual, and auditory ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodations
• All employees working with the YMCA are considered to have supervisory or disciplinary action relationship over minors. Fingerprints will be taken upon commencement of employment and will be submitted to the Association Office human resources department before beginning the first day of work
• Ability to walk up to 5 miles per day on varied terrain.