Ropes Course Facilitator

The YMCA of Greater San Francisco is a global movement and the nation's leading nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. We offer careers with a future and the opportunity to make a lasting difference in your community.

Our Organizational Culture

At the YMCA of Greater San Francisco, we are committed to building strong communities where you can Be, Belong and Become. Our values include:

• Truth & Courage: Understanding and acting on individual and societal truths.
• Authenticity & Accessibility: Ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for everyone.
• Dependable & Creative: Responding to community needs through strong partnerships.
• Dignity & Empathy: Treating everyone with respect and compassion.

About the Role

Under the supervision of the Program Director, the Ropes Course Facilitator provides facilitation, leadership, instruction, and motivation for participants, with an emphasis on safety. This role involves running high and low ropes elements for campers and user groups, including the Challenge Course, Zipline, and Climbing Tower. Staff may also facilitate teambuilding sessions and assist with program site upkeep. This is an on-call role with no consistent scheduling.

Responsibilities

• Participant Engagement and Activities:
  • Facilitate engaging, safe activities that encourage personal growth and social skills.
  • Foster positive relationships among participants and the YMCA community.
  • Promote respect for personal property, camp equipment, facilities, and the environment.
• Safety and Compliance:
  • Ensure participant safety by following all YMCA and Camp Jones Gulch emergency and safety procedures.
  • Adhere to YMCA, ACA, local, state, and federal standards and guidelines.
• Customer Service and Professionalism:
  • Deliver exceptional customer service and create a welcoming environment.
  • Maintain a professional and approachable demeanor with participants, staff, and guests.
• Administrative and Operational Support:
  • Complete and submit accurate reports (e.g., incident logs, health records, timecards) promptly.
  • Support camp operations, including tasks outside of regular activity facilitation.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

This role primarily works outdoors in various weather conditions, including heat, cold, and rain. Physical activities include hiking, climbing, paddling, and lifting or moving equipment weighing up to 30 pounds. The position requires sustained energy, attentiveness, and flexibility to adapt to changing program needs while maintaining a safe and inclusive environment.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Experience working with youth in recreational or educational settings.
• Enthusiasm for leading a variety of activities, including arts, outdoor recreation, and team-based programs.
• Ability to effectively engage with people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities.
• Strong supervision and group management skills.
• Professional, respectful, and willing to learn new skills, such as conflict resolution and first aid.
• Must successfully complete a background screening, including criminal and employment verification.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with challenge/adventure/ropes courses.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience.
• Language skills in Spanish.
• Belay experience.