ROPES COURSE DIRECTOR - Summer Camp 2026

POSITION SUMMARY:

This is a seasonal role from June - August and supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Ropes Course Director oversees the day to day operations of the high and low ropes course including safety, program quality, camper management, equipment care and management, and ensuring policies and procedures are being upheld. The Ropes Course Director reports directly to the Assistant Camp Director and supervises ropes course staff. Ropes Course Director will work outdoors with diverse populations on the low and high ropes course to support and enhance the summer camp experience for all. The Ropes Course Director also serves a member of the senior staff team and is charged with high level leadership across the camp operation. The Ropes Course Director are expected to lead by example and inspire those around them.?

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Oversee daily operations of low and high ropes courses for campers entering grades K-9th.
• Supervise and evaluate two dedicated high ropes staff and one dedicated challenge course (low ropes) staff.
• Delegate and support staff assigned to the high ropes and challenge course areas in facilitating activities, providing supervision, belay technique, and spotting activities.
• Lead staff trainings to provide staff with necessary skills to facilitate on the high ropes course including belaying, group management, and equipment care as well as facilitate on the low ropes course including spotting, framing, and debriefing.
• Maintain strict safety protocol for all ropes course programs according to Camp Lincoln’s policies and industry standards.
• Ensure all campers and staff are equipped with well-fitting and appropriate safety equipment for their activity and monitor the use of equipment and camper safety at all times.
• Prepare program supplies for activities ahead of program start time.
• Responsible for inspecting all equipment for functionality and safety before each use as well as proper records and storage after use.
• Lead large and small groups through a progression of teambuilding activities, low ropes elements, high challenge course elements, and reflective discussions tailored to their program goals
• Work closely with the Assistant Camp Director to maintain a high level of program quality.
• Attend required abuse risk management training.
• Report suspicious or inappropriate behaviors and policy violations.
• Follow mandated abuse reporting requirements.
• Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• 18+
• Level 1 or 2 ropes course certification. Level 2 certification provided for successful applicants.
• Experience working with youth aged 5-14 in an educational setting preferred.
• Must pass Skills Verification, including rescue skills, following staff training, and necessary shadowing
• Familiarity with various camp activities.
• Patient and reliable.
• Ability to handle sensitive, confidential information.
• Organizational and communication skills.
• Energetic and positive personality.
• Must be able to complete YMCA required training as scheduled by management.
• Must maintain updated certifications of the job (CPR and First Aid/AED).
• Must successfully clear FBI and state criminal background checks.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to stand or walk for long periods of time
• Ability to lift up to 40lbs.
• Ability to push, pull, bend and kneel regularly.
• Ability to work outdoors for entire shift, regardless of weather.

Southern District YMCA is an Equal Opportunities employer and embraces diversity in our employee population. It is the policy of SDYMCA to provide equal opportunity to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or genetic information.