Outdoor Program Specialist – Presidio Community

The YMCA of San Francisco is seeking an Outdoor Program Specialist to create and lead environmental education programs for K-12 students. This role involves designing outdoor activities, collaborating with families and educators, and mentoring youth development staff. The position requires physical activity and knowledge in ecological concepts. It is primarily based at Sutro Elementary School in San Francisco and involves engaging youth in nature-focused learning experiences.
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Are you passionate about connecting young people with nature and empowering them to learn through hands-on environmental experiences? The YMCA is seeking a dynamic Outdoor Program Specialist to lead engaging, outdoor-based learning experiences that inspire curiosity and foster connections between students and the environment.

In this role, you’ll create and deliver innovative environmental education programs for K-12 students from diverse backgrounds, helping them explore themes such as sustainability, community, and wellness. You’ll design outdoor activities and manage lesson plans and materials. Collaborate with families, educators, and community partners to cultivate meaningful learning opportunities.

The Outdoor Program Specialist position requires the physical ability to participate in strenuous activities and the knowledge and skill to lead and educate while making learning fun. This role will work across a variety of YMCA of San Francisco nature engagement programs, including Y Rangers, STEAM-based environmental education afterschool programs, Earth Service Corps & Youth Service Corps, Family Camp, and community garden projects.
This position will primarily be based out of Sutro Elementary School (235 12th Ave, San Francisco, CA 94118) and may support other After School sites as needed.
• Develop, plan and lead environmental, outdoor, group-building and wellness activities for youth in grades K-12, from a variety of socio-economic, cultural, geographic and educational backgrounds.
• Create and implement curriculum for personal and departmental use that integrates YMCA goals and objectives, that is relevant to state and national standards, departmental expectations, and the individual needs of your students into your curriculum plans for each day/program.
• Articulate the mission, programs and services of Presidio Community YMCA and the YMCA of San Francisco to all participants and the public.
• Mentor YSF youth development staff in nature engagement strategies through programmatic collaboration, observation, and coaching.
• Assist with environmental education and climate justice department administrative duties as assigned.
• Adhere to all YMCA of San Francisco, Presidio Community YMCA and National Park Service procedures and regulations, including safety, mandated reporting and risk management.
• Maintain program supplies and fulfill assigned housekeeping and coordinating responsibilities.
• Facilitate nature-engagement programs for youth and their families.
• Conduct program evaluation and recommend changes in response to community needs and interests.
• Complete all mandatory ADP LMS safety training and Y-USA e-Learning before the first shift in the facility.
• Aid and comfort sick or injured participants to the level of your training; facilitate additional emergency and medical response as necessary.
Requirements
• Minimum 21 years old.
• A minimum of 16 units of education in natural sciences, recreation, or related field.
• Knowledge in at least some of the following areas: general ecological concepts, natural and cultural history, geology, team building, storytelling, social and environmental health.
• Experience working with youth, teens, and adults.
• Experience using effective teaching techniques with students in grades K-12.
• Must be available Monday – Friday in 4-hour shifts and occasionally weekends that are determined in the beginning of the semester.
• YMCA approved First Aid, CPR, and AED certificates required within 30 days of hire.
• Ability to work effectively with a wide variety of people and to work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Ability to remain calm in challenging situations.
• TB Test Clearance.
Preferred Qualifications
• Bilingual skills in Spanish, Mandarin and/or Cantonese.
• Wilderness First Aid and Wilderness First Responder.
What You’ll Gain

When you join our team as an Outdoor Program Specialist, you’ll gain more than a job—you’ll gain a community dedicated to making a difference. Even though part-time employees may not be eligible for traditional benefits, working at the YMCA comes with a variety of perks, including:
• Free or Discounted YMCA Membership: Access to YMCA facilities, fitness classes, and wellness programs.
• Professional Development Opportunities: Gain valuable experience in outdoor education, youth development, and leadership.
• Flexible Scheduling: Work hours that fit around other commitments.
• Networking and Community Impact: Be part of a team making a real difference in the lives of youth and families.
• Access to Training and Certifications: Opportunities to earn certifications in areas like first aid, CPR, and outdoor leadership.
• Inclusive and Supportive Work Environment: Work with a diverse team and community that shares your passion for making a difference.
Join us and be part of a team that values your contributions while empowering you to grow personally and professionally!#J-18808-Ljbffr

About the Company:
YMCA of San Francisco