Adventure Specialist - Full-time

Position: Adventure Specialist

Location: BCNY Camp @ Harriman State Park, 553 Arden Valley Road, Southfields, NY 10975

Salary: $25 per hour (35 hrs. a week)

Employment Type: Seasonal, June 24, 2024 – August 16, 2024

Mandatory Orientation: June 24 – July 05, 2024

Since 1876, The Boys’ Club of New York (BCNY) has been partnering with boys and young men in after-school, weekend, and summer programs that support youth growth and development. BCNY’s two well-equipped clubhouses in East Harlem and Flushing and its wilderness camp in Harriman State Park offer activities and programs remarkable in their range. From swimming to robotics and enjoying ice skating in Central Park and a trip to the theatre on Saturdays, BCNY programs and events deepen interests and skills and are free of charge to members and their families. With the increase in youth directly impacted by the shelter and homelessness crisis in New York City, BCNY is dedicated to increasing equitable access to its free, high quality youth programs that foster brave spaces where boys and young men can connect, have fun and build lifelong friendships with peers and mentor. Part of that mission is our commitment to BCNY’s expansion sites in the Bronx and Brooklyn that engage members within their communities with the same youth-centered ethos the organization is known for. Our dedicated and highly skilled staff and our professional advisory council have made BCNY a leader in youth programming across the field and we invite you join our team as we partner with boys and young men as they journey through their childhoods and our clubhouses.

We are a COVID-19 proactive organization that follows applicable health and safety regulations to help protect our members and staff. Harriman Base Camp employees are not required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, unless it is specified under requirements. BCNY strongly encourages all employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19 and obtain a booster shot.

We are seeking an energetic and experienced Adventure Activity Specialist to join our summer camp team at the Boy's Club of New York Harriman Base Camp. As the Adventure Activity Specialist, you will be responsible for coordinating and leading a variety of outdoor adventure activities, including hikes, interactive outdoor play, reaction adventures, and adventure courses. The ideal candidate will have a passion for the outdoors, exceptional organizational and leadership skills, and the ability to create an environment that fosters exploration, teamwork, and fun. Must be available for mandatory training in June.

• Plan and lead captivating hiking trips, ensuring routes are age-appropriate, safe, and aligned with camp policies.
• Coordinate logistics of all outdoor activities including equipment, and trail preparation.
• Develop and facilitate creative and engaging outdoor play activities that encourage camper participation and physical activity.
• Foster a positive outlook on teamwork through interactive games and challenges.
• Coordinate and lead reaction adventures, such as team-building exercises, problem-solving challenges, and initiatives that promote personal growth.
• Ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all participants.
• Oversee adventure courses, including low ropes and other challenge elements.
• Instruct and guide campers through the proper use of equipment, emphasizing safety and teamwork.
• Enforce safety protocols during all outdoor activities, emphasizing the importance of proper equipment usage, hydration, and adherence to established guidelines.
• Monitor weather conditions and adjust plans as needed to ensure camper well-being.
• Ensure all adventure equipment is in good working condition, conducting regular checks and maintenance.
• Organize and maintain an inventory of adventure gear, ensuring availability for all scheduled activities.
• Foster a positive and inclusive atmosphere, encouraging campers to embrace the spirit of adventure and outdoor play.
• Provide guidance and support to campers, helping them build confidence, resilience, and teamwork skills.
• Collaborate with other camp staff to coordinate schedules, share insights, and ensure a well-rounded camp experience for all campers.
• Lead orientation sessions for fellow staff members, introducing them to their role in the execution of policies, procedures, curriculum, and culture of your activity.
• Submit a written program evaluation at the end of the season.

• Must be 18 years of age.
• First Aid and CPR Certification required or must be able to obtain certification or become certified once employed.

• Ability to pass a background check and physical exam.
• All staff must be up to date on all required immunizations and provide proof of their MMR according to NY State.
• Must submit proof of health examination within the past year and immunization record prior to first day of work.

• Previous experience coordinating and leading various outdoor adventure activities, including hikes, outdoor play, reaction adventures, and adventure courses.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Knowledge of safety protocols and best practices in outdoor adventure programming.

• At least 1 year of experience with youth and camp experience preferred.
• Desire and ability to work with children outdoors in varied conditions.
• Bilingual Spanish/English or Mandarin/English preferred.

• Food, Room and Board provided
• Fun team environment - lots of camp spirit!
• PTO: Sick time only?

The Boys’ Club of New York is an equal opportunity employer

and makes employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other status protected by law. If you have a disability or other protected need requiring an accommodation, please contact Human Resources.