The Coordinator is responsible for supporting and growing the AMC's Youth Opportunities Program (YOP) in the Greater New York City and New Jersey region. YOP provides training and support for more than 100 youth workers to independently lead youth groups into the outdoors. The program makes the outdoors accessible to more than 3,000 urban and at-risk youth per year through provision of training, trip planning assistance, reduced rates at AMC lodging destinations, and use of equipment. The successful candidate will be responsible for coordination of all aspects of YOP outdoor adventure activities including outreach, training administration and instruction, e-newsletter, reservations, equipment, volunteer management, and trip planning assistance. The NY/NJ YOP Coordinator will work collaboratively with the AMC Mohican Outdoor Center facility manager and staff to increase utilization of the facility by YOP groups. This full-time exempt position reports to the Director of the Youth Opportunities Program and offers a competitive salary and excellent benefits. The position is based both in New York City and at AMC's Mohican Outdoor Center in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
Responsibilities
- Plan, implement, and instruct outdoor leadership trainings and workshops for professional youth workers to prepare them to lead youth on outdoor excursions.
- Conduct outreach to recruit youth workers for participation in the program, and to encourage their retention and long-term participation as outdoor leaders for their youth.
- Provide assistance, logistical support, and advice to youth workers as they develop plans for leading their youth into the outdoors.
- Plan and lead direct service youth adventures in New York City, Newark, and at Mohican Outdoor Center.
- Recruit, manage, and support volunteers, including organizing and attending volunteer committee meetings and hikes.
- Work closely with AMC facility staff to ensure successful lodging reservations for YOP groups.
- Keep accurate, up-to-date statistics on trainings, participants, youth served, equipment, facility usage, and other data as needed. Compile year-end report. Manage database.
- Manage outdoor equipment inventory, including distribution, safety, cleaning, and maintenance.
- Assist with fundraising by attending meetings and completing other projects as assigned.
- Implement AMC and YOP risk management procedures in all trainings, trips, and workshops.
- Collaborate with YOP staff in program planning and delivery.
- Other duties as assigned.
Employment Qualifications
- Bachelor's Degree or equivalent experience in education or related fields with course work completed in experiential education, outdoor adventure-based recreation, and leadership.
- At least two years of program administration experience required, with a minimum of three years facilitating outdoor leadership and related activities.
- Experience leading outdoor trips for youth and adults. Must be able to work comfortably and professionally in office and in field.
- Strong outdoor leadership skills including backpacking, hiking, camping, and winter skills. Canoeing experience a plus.
- Experience working with a variety of diverse populations including youth, adults, volunteers, and staff.
- Outstanding organizational and communication skills. Public speaking experience.
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail.
- Ability to hike and camp in mountain terrain carrying a 40-50 pound pack, in all weather conditions. Ability to lift 65 lbs. from the ground to waist-height.
- A general knowledge of the AMC and its mission is desirable.
- Knowledge of the Delaware Water Gap, the New York/New Jersey area, and youth-serving organizations is desirable.
- Ability to effectively work independently and in a team environment.
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Office.
- Must be flexible and able to work weekends and evenings.
- Wilderness First Responder certification, preferred.
To Reply
Send cover letter and resume to Director, Youth Opportunities Program, Appalachian Mountain Club, 5 Joy Street, Boston, MA 02108, or to amcjob138@outdoors.org. No calls, please. Anticipated start date is August/September 2009.
Benefits of Working With the AMC
The AMC offers a great benefits package! Here is a partial list that highlights some benefits offered for our regular full-time employees. Benefits may vary based on position.
- Group Health Plan: 72-75 percent employer paid.
- Group Life Insurance: 100 percent employer paid.
- Long-term Disability Insurance: 100 percent employer paid.
- Vacation: Three weeks accrued each year.
- Holidays: Thirteen paid holidays per year.
- Use of AMC Facilities: Free and discounted rates.
- Free AMC membership.
The Appalachian Mountain Club is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes diversity in the workplace.
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