Ropes Course Specialist

Who are We:

• We are not just any summer camp; we’re something more
• We provide a safe space for our campers from challenging neighborhoods in San Francisco
• We promote and value diverse, equitable, inclusive, and belonging within a strong staff community
• We influence & inspire our campers to help them become more successful & proactive adults
• We foster an environment that allows our staff to thrive and grow as professionals, no matter their chosen field
• We’re a ton of fun!

Who are You:

• You are a role model who will always put our youth first
• You have an unparalleled sense of integrity, emotional intelligence, & commitment to quality work
• You believe in the power of working and playing in nature
• You thrive while working collaboratively
• You are willing to learn, grow, & get better
• You value creativity, professionalism, empathy, & patience

Position Purpose

The Challenge Course Specialist (also called Ropes Course Specialist) facilitates the challenge course, which includes: high elements on two static systems, a climbing wall, and low elements. This position teaches youth about team building, goal setting, and overcoming challenges in a positive manner, and promotes character development. The challenge course team ensures the safety of all participants while on the challenge course.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide a positive and safe environment for participants to engage in all challenge course activities.
• Ensure the safety of all campers, including setting clear safety expectations, observing and engaging campers while in their care, assessing the appropriateness of camper behaviors, and following emergency procedures and all COVID-19 safety protocols.
• Ensure the safety requirements are being followed by all participants on challenge course elements.
• Ensure that all specific COVID-19 Challenge course protocols are being followed.
• Foster an atmosphere of teamwork for all participants.
• Foster character development consistent with BGCSF philosophy.
• Run activities with youth including but not limited to: wellness activities, outdoor education, hiking, and overnight camping. 
• Engage campers with a positive attitude.
• Other duties as specified by the direct supervisor.

Required Skills

• Experience facilitating challenge courses/high ropes courses and/or rock climbing walls.
• Experience facilitating team-building activities.
• Experience leading youth programs.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with coworkers and youth.
• Ability to handle difficult or stressful situations in a professional manner.
• Strong communication skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Preferred Skills

• Experience working with youth in an overnight camp setting.
• Experience working with youth from disadvantaged circumstances.

By the end of the summer, an incredible Ropes Course Specialist will 

• Help build a safe & positive environment.
• Create opportunities for fun & belonging for all campers.
• Establish supportive relationships with campers and adult staff.
• Encourage a sense of belonging, usefulness, influence, and confidence in campers.

Physical Requirements

• Proof of COVID-19 vaccination upon employment.
• Must be able to lift 50lbs.
• Must be able to walk on uneven terrain for at least 3 miles.
• Must be able to be stand for 8 hours (with breaks).
• Must be able to work in temperatures ranging from 30° to 100°.

Schedule

• Temporary/Seasonal Summer position.
• Applicants should be available June 7 - August 7, 2023 to work & live on-site at our Camp location in Northern California (Mendocino County). 
• Staff members work 40-56 hours/week depending on position with two days off per week. Days off vary per session. 

Lodging

Lodging is provided for all staff on site. Challenge Course staff will not be required to stay in a cabin with youth on a regular basis but will be assigned bunk-style indoor housing that may be shared with up to 3 other staff members. 

Benefits

• Onsite lodging is provided for all staff.
• Three cooked meals per day are provided onsite, including on days off (gluten-free, vegan, & vegetarian options).
• Free onsite laundry.
• Employee Assistance Program: In-Person Counseling + 24/7 Confidential Mental Health Support.
• Sick Time.
• Onsite workout facilities. 
• Free Wifi access in the staff lounge. 
• Free 1-year membership to the American Camp Association.

Pay

The wage range for this role takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and BGCSF needs.  At BGCSF,  our decisions are based on other factors and dependant on circumstances for each position.  Depending on the need and requirement of the position,  an individual could be hired at or near the entry level, mid - level or top of the range for their role and compensation.  As such, a reasonable estimate for this temporary summer position from June 7 - August 7, 2023, is $2,800.

Disclaimer

Boys & Girls Clubs of San Francisco is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The information presented indicates the general nature and level of work expected of employees in this classification. It is not designed to contain, nor to be interpreted as, a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications and objectives required of employees assigned to this job. 

If you’re excited about this opportunity, but your experience doesn’t align perfectly, we encourage you to apply anyways and attach a cover letter explaining why it would be a good fit. You may just be the right candidate! 

IMPACT | GROWTH | COMMUNITY