Description

Job Summary

Youth Crew Leaders play a vital role in the success of a transformative youth stewardship program by supervising, mentoring, and supporting high school–aged participants in a residential, field-based environment. This role provides an opportunity to build leadership and stewardship skills while guiding youth through conservation projects, outdoor recreation, and personal development experiences. Crew Leaders receive comprehensive pre-season training and then live and work with youth crews for the full duration of the program, providing 24/7 supervision, mentorship, and support. The position is similar to a camp counselor role and is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts passionate about youth development, teamwork, and environmental stewardship.

Key Responsibilities

Participate in required pre-season training to prepare for the program session
Mentor and co-lead a residential crew of youth participants and a returning alumni assistant over a multi-week program period
Provide physical, social, and emotional support to youth participants in a residential outdoor setting
Support leadership development of the alumni assistant through guidance and shared responsibilities
Train participants in camp setup, hygiene practices, camp safety, and Leave No Trace principles
Supervise and complete conservation and restoration projects in outdoor environments
Lead and facilitate safe recreational activities on weekends (e.g., hiking, backpacking, swimming)
Safely transport crew members to work sites, camp locations, and recreational areas
Submit regular written, digital, and verbal reports on project progress, supplies, incidents, and expenses
Capture and maintain photo documentation of projects and program activities
Support healthy meal planning and daily camp operations
Plan and facilitate team-building activities and educational lessons using a provided curriculum
Conduct regular safety meetings, job hazard analyses, and equipment checks
Hold individual check-ins and evaluations to support participant growth and development
Administer basic first aid in the field and maintain accurate incident records
Assist with end-of-season wrap-up activities, including documentation, equipment maintenance, and evaluations
 

Requirements

Required Qualifications

Minimum age of 21 years
Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
Experience working with teenagers (ages 15–18)
Leadership experience in youth, outdoor, or team-based settings
Camping skills and familiarity with Leave No Trace practices
Strong communication, organizational, leadership, and problem-solving skills
Ability to foster inclusive, supportive environments for individuals from diverse backgrounds
Ability to manage group dynamics and support youth through personal and team challenges
First Aid experience required; Wilderness First Responder certification or higher preferred
Pre-service background screening required
Preferred Qualifications

Lifeguard certification
Experience working with conservation or restoration crews (may be waived with strong youth and camping experience)
Undergraduate degree in outdoor recreation, natural resources, youth development, or a related field, or equivalent relevant experience
Positive attitude, flexibility, and a strong sense of humor
Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

Field-based position with extended periods of tent camping
Limited or no access to shower facilities
Physically demanding work, including lifting up to 50 pounds and hiking 4–8 miles during recreational activities