Challenge Course (Low/High Ropes) Program Instructor - PT

YMCA Camp Carter is a beautiful 360-acre year-round summer camp located right in the heart of Fort Worth, TX. At camp, we offer 11 weeks of care that runs from Tuesday, May 26th through Friday, August 7th with an exciting variety of camp options to please every kind of camper at every age! Our traditional multi-activity camp provides options like STEM, arts, horseback riding, swimming, boating, fishing, and more! In our shoulder season, we offer Groups & Retreats, Conferences, Events, Equestrian Programs, Outdoor Education Field Trips, Family Camps, Holiday Camps, and much more. Learn more about Camp Carter in this quick video: https://youtu.be/ZoxPalxUmic?si=4Q_WrrMjBozWsq0e

Position Summary

The Challenge Course Program Instructor is an energetic and safety-focused team member at YMCA Camp Carter, responsible for facilitating low ropes, high ropes, and team-building experiences that challenge and inspire participants year-round. This role is essential in delivering impactful outdoor experiences that build confidence, teamwork, and personal growth.

During the summer season, the Challenge Course Instructor works full-time (40 hours/week), leading daily programming elements within summer camp. In the off-season, this position transitions to part-time, supporting outdoor education field trips, retreats, and group experiences that utilize the challenge course.

This role requires comfort working at heights, strong attention to safety protocols, and the ability to actively engage and motivate participants. The Challenge Course Instructor is a key contributor to both camper experience and group program success across all seasons.

Our Culture & Cause

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. It's who we are, who we aspire to be, and how we show up every day. We are cause-driven. We don’t just show up—we show up with purpose. As a cause-driven team member, you are expected to be:

Welcoming – Accept neighbors eagerly, warmly, and as equal participants

Nurturing – Support and develop others through encouragement

Hopeful – Take a positive and optimistic view of future outcomes

Determined – Devote full energy and focus to the cause

Genuine – Build honest and open relationships

We act with intentionality to connect people to our cause. Join us and help transform lives!

Reporting Structure

The Challenge Course Program Instructor reports to the Program Director of Day Camp & Outdoor Education and works closely with full-time and seasonal program staff.

Why You’ll Love This Role

As a Challenge Course Instructor, you will have the opportunity to:

Lead transformative ropes course and team-building experiences

Help participants overcome fears and build confidence

Work outdoors in a dynamic, high-energy camp environment

Gain hands-on experience in facilitation, risk management, and experiential education

Be part of a collaborative team committed to youth development and community impact

Play a vital role in both summer camp programming and year-round group experiences

Core Responsibilities

You lead engaging, meaningful challenge course experiences that promote growth and connection.

Key Responsibilities:

Facilitate low ropes, high ropes, and team-building initiatives

Guide participants through experiential learning and reflection activities

Adapt programming to meet the needs of diverse groups and age ranges

Encourage teamwork, communication, and personal development

Create an inclusive and empowering environment for all participants

Operate and supervise challenge course elements following established safety protocols

Conduct daily inspections of course elements, equipment, and gear

Ensure proper harnessing, belaying, and spotting techniques

Maintain accurate documentation of inspections and incidents

Respond appropriately to emergencies and follow YMCA safety procedures

Seasonal Expectations

Summer (Peak Season):

Full-time schedule (approximately 40 hours per week)

Primary role facilitating challenge course activities within summer camp

Off-Season (Fall, Winter, Spring):

Part-time hours based on program demand

Facilitate challenge course elements for schools, retreats, and groups

Flexible schedule including some evenings and weekends

Qualifications

Experience in challenge course facilitation, outdoor recreation, or experiential education preferred

Ability to obtain or willingness to complete challenge course certification (ACCT or similar training preferred; YMCA will provide training)

Comfort working at heights and in physically active environments

Strong communication, group facilitation, and leadership skills

Ability to enforce safety standards with confidence and consistency

Experience working with youth or groups in a camp, school, or recreational setting preferred

Dependable, adaptable, and team-oriented mindset

Compensation

Pay: $15/hour (part-time, year-round)

Summer: Full-time seasonal hours (40 hours/week)

Opportunities for skill development, certifications, and advancement