INTERNSHIP DETAILS

Outdoor Education Program Instructor/Intern (Sept - Dec) & (Feb - May), YMCA Camp Classen

CompanyYMCA of Greater Oklahoma City
LocationUnited States
Work ModeOn Site
PostedApril 15, 2026
Internship Information
Core Responsibilities
Instructors will lead 5th and 6th-grade students in outdoor educational activities, including hikes, wilderness skills, and team-building exercises. They are responsible for fostering a love for nature while ensuring a safe and engaging learning environment.
Internship Type
full time
Salary Range
$525 - $625
Company Size
292
Visa Sponsorship
No
Language
English
Working Hours
40 hours
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About The Company
The Y is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Across the Oklahoma City Metro, 15 Ys engage more than 232,000 men, women and children – regardless of age, income or background – to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve the nation’s health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. Anchored in more than 10,000 communities across the country, the Y has the long-standing relationships and physical presence not just to promise, but to deliver, lasting personal and social change. Mission To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.
About the Role

Description

YMCA Camp Classen, nestled in the picturesque Arbuckle Mountains of southern Oklahoma, is seeking enthusiastic individuals with a passion for the outdoors and youth development. Located just over an hour from Oklahoma City and within reach of the DFW Metroplex, our 2200-acre camp offers a unique setting for outdoor adventures. From lakes and waterfalls to diverse ecosystems, Camp Classen provides an immersive experience for students and staff alike.


As an Outdoor Education Program Instructor, you’ll guide 5th & 6th-grade students from Oklahoma and North Texas. You’ll lead exploratory hikes, teach wilderness living skills, and engage them in hands-on outdoor education activities like primitive fire making, aquatic habitats, atlatls, team building, tomahawks, and more, that bring their classrooms to life in the great outdoors. With all training provided and certifications available, you will play a vital role in shaping the students experiences and fostering a love for nature.

Are you ready to help us make a difference in our students' lives? Don’t delay start your camp professional adventure today!

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS

  • 18 years of age or older
  • Strong Communication skills
  • Enthusiasm and experience teaching and/or leading elementary and/or middle school youth.
  • Good judgment, flexibility, and the ability to work independently
  • Ability to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends.
  • Ability to work and live in a small, rural community.
  • Ability to lead hikes and other outdoor activities
  • Ability to relate to individuals and groups in a warm, positive manner
  • Willingness to take on varied tasks that support the program
  • Must be able to work outside in all weather conditions

PREFERRED

  • Valid Driver’s License and clean driving record
  • Lifeguard certification or willing to obtain upon hire
  • Kayak and/or SUP certification or willing to obtain upon hire
  • Rock climbing/Belay certification or willing to obtain upon hire
  • CPR & First Aid certification or willing to obtain upon hire.
  • Experience with team-building curriculum
  • Understanding of basic natural history and environmental education concepts
  • Degree or Major in Education, Recreation or relevant experiences.

EMPLOYMENT DATES

  • Fall season Instructors typically begin around the end of August and continue until mid - December.
  • Spring season Instructors typically begin February and continue through the end of May.
  • Summer opportunities are also available

NOTE: Exact start dates are determined prior to each season as group contracts are finalized.


COMPENSATION AND AMENITIES

  • $525.00 - $625.00 per week DOE. Additional compensation for weekends
  • Pay is every two weeks keeping with pay schedule of YMCA of Greater OKC
  • Staff shirts are provided
  • Semi private housing
  • Meals are provided when dining hall is open.
  • All training certification costs and time are paid for.
  • Free laundry facilities and wifi
  • Professional advancement and growth opportunities at camp and with the YMCA OKC Association.

If you want to learn more about our programs and mission, visit our website: https://campclassen.org/

We invite you to get to know YMCA CAMP CLASSEN better by contacting us today.


Equal Opportunity Employer 

Key Skills
Outdoor educationYouth developmentCommunicationTeam buildingWilderness living skillsHikingEnvironmental educationNatural historyInstructionFlexibilityLeadership
Categories
EducationSports & RecreationSocial ServicesEnvironmental & Sustainability
Benefits
Semi-private housingMeals providedTraining and certification costs coveredFree laundry facilitiesWifiProfessional advancement opportunities