Course Assistant Jobs in Santa Cruz, CA (NOW HIRING)

Careers by Empowering Futures, Building Communities

Imagine going to work each day knowing that your efforts positively impact individuals and communities. As a global movement and the nation's leading nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, the YMCA of Greater San Francisco offers more than just a job-we offer a career with a future and the opportunity to make a lasting difference in your community. At the Y, you can uncover your passion and build a lifelong career addressing some of the nation's most pressing social issues.

Our Organizational Culture

At the YMCA of Greater San Francisco, we are committed to demonstrating values that aim to building strong communities where you can Be, Belong and Become. With Truth & Courage, we strive to understand and act on individual and societal truths. We ensure a safe and inclusive environment with Authenticity & Accessibility, allowing everyone to participate according to their needs. Our approach is Dependable & Creative, as we respond to community needs through strong partnerships. Above all, we embody Dignity & Empathy, treating everyone with respect and compassion, and recognizing the inherent dignity in all individuals.

Position Summary

Under the supervision of the Program Director, the Ropes Course Facilitator provides facilitation, leadership, instruction, and motivation for participants in program, with an emphasis on safety. Staff will run high and low ropes elements for campers and user groups. These include, but are not limited to, the Challenge Course, Zipline, and Climbing Tower. Staff may also work teambuilding sessions and assist with program site upkeep. This is an on-call role with no consistent scheduling.

Job Responsibilities

Participant Engagement and Activities

• Facilitate activities that are engaging, safe, and encourage personal growth and social skills.

• Foster a sense of connection among participants by encouraging positive relationships with peers and the YMCA community.

• Promote respect for personal property, camp equipment, facilities, and the environment.

Safety and Compliance

• Ensure the safety of participants by following all YMCA and Camp Jones Gulch emergency and safety procedures.

• Adhere to all YMCA, ACA, local, state, and federal standards and guidelines.

Customer Service and Professionalism

• Deliver exceptional customer service and create a welcoming environment for all participants.

• Maintain a professional and approachable demeanor in interactions 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 as needed, including tasks outside of regular activity facilitation.
  

  Work Environment & Physical Demands

  The Camp Jones Gulch Ropes Course Facilitator role involves working primarily outdoors in various weather conditions, including heat, cold, and rain. Staff must be able to actively participate in physical activities such as hiking, climbing, paddling, and lifting or moving equipment weighing up to 30 pounds. This position requires sustained energy, attentiveness, and flexibility to adapt to changing program needs while maintaining a safe and inclusive environment for participants.

  Disclaimers

  • Must successfully complete a background screening, including criminal and employment verification. Some positions may also require a credit check.
  • All duties and responsibilities are essential job functions subject to reasonable accommodation. The YMCA of Greater San Francisco promotes an equal employment opportunity workplace, which includes reasonable accommodation for otherwise qualified disabled applicants and employees. Please contact your manager if you have any questions about this policy or these job duties.
  • This job description may not be all-inclusive, and employees are expected to perform other duties as assigned by management. Job descriptions and duties may be modified by management as needed.
  • Job offers are conditional and contingent upon background clearance. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance and CA Fair Chance Act, we will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records for employment.

Qualifications

• 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.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with challenge/adventure/ropes courses

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience

• Language skills in Spanish

• Belay experience