Naturalist – Y Rangers

Careers 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

Are you passionate about inspiring young minds and fostering a love for nature, history, and community? Join us as a Naturalist and play a pivotal role in creating unforgettable experiences for students and campers from grades K-10.

Under the guidance of the Camp Coordinator, the Naturalist will take the lead in ensuring the safety, engagement, and learning of participants while exploring dynamic themes like the environment, history, community, and wellness. Your mission is to make learning come alive through hands-on environmental activities, team-building exercises, and creative group experiences that resonate with students from diverse backgrounds.

This is a seasonal position that begins on May 15th – August 20th, 2025.

Job Responsibilities

• Program Planning and Facilitation
  • Plan and lead outdoor, environmental, and wellness activities for grades K-10 students.
  • Develop and deliver curriculum aligned with YMCA goals and partner objectives, ensuring activities are engaging and relevant to campers.
  • Act as a unit director for assigned camp groups.
• Camper and Staff Support
  • Support camp counselors with camper behavior and other challenges.
  • Build and maintain relationships with park partners.
• Safety and Risk Management
  • Follow YMCA and National Park Service safety, reporting, and risk management procedures.
  • Provide first aid or emergency assistance with your training.
  • Complete required safety and learning modules before starting work.
• Administrative and Operational Duties
  • Manage program supplies and assist with housekeeping tasks as needed.
  • Maintain certifications and attend required staff meetings and training.
  • Collect and facilitate program surveys.
  • Report program needs supervisors.
• Professionalism and Organizational Values
  • Present a professional image through appearance, behavior, and interactions.
  • Follow YMCA policies and demonstrate values of caring, respect, honesty, and responsibility.

Minimum Qualifications

• 18+ years old
• At least 12 units in education, natural sciences, recreation, or a related field.
• Knowledge in areas like ecology, history, geology, team building, or environmental health.
• Availability from mid-June to mid-August, Monday to Friday.
• Experience working with youth, teens, and adults.
• Ability to teach students in grades K-10 effectively.
• First Aid, CPR, and AED certification (required within 30 days of hire).
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to stay calm under pressure and manage large groups.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Experience developing curriculum.
• Spanish or Cantonese language skills.
• Wilderness First Aid or Wilderness First Responder certification.

Work Environment and Physical Demands

The Naturalist role involves working primarily outdoors in a variety of natural settings, including parks, forests, and campgrounds. The work may require:

• Exposure to varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, wind, and rain.
• Physical activity such as hiking, standing, bending, or carrying supplies for extended periods.
• Working with groups of youth and teens in active, dynamic environments.
• Occasional indoor work for planning, meetings, or training sessions.
• The position requires adaptability to changing conditions and comfort with outdoor environments to ensure a positive and engaging experience 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.

Salary Description

The Naturalist position offers a competitive salary ranging from $18.70 – $26.00 per hour, based on experience and qualifications. Compensation is in accordance with program budget requirements.