YMCA of the Rockies

UPDATES: Hiring for winter, spring, and summer 2024 – 2025!

About Us: YMCA of the Rockies is made up of two year-round family resorts and conference centers – Estes Park Center and Snow Mountain Ranch – and a traditional overnight summer camp for teens, Camp Chief Ouray. All are located in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains and offer a variety of affordable lodging options so families and groups can connect with each other and create lifelong memories. There are many reasons that guests choose to stay at one of YMCA of the Rockies’ locations. Every year, we host and serve more than 800 family reunions, 180,000 family vacationers, 1,200 conferences, 300 military families and 2,000 Camp Chief Ouray campers. Guests are inspired by the amazing mountain views, the fresh mountain air, the endless recreational possibilities, and the change of pace from hectic daily routines that allows quality time with friends and family to become their focus.

Work agreements available up to 8 months. Spend your time working next to Rocky Mountain National Park. Hassle-free living and daily Colorado adventures available to all seasonal staff and volunteers. This includes lodging, meals, Wi-Fi, utilities, laundry, YMCA membership, ski and golf passes, and so much more. Choose from a variety of jobs:

Hiring:

Preferred Dates: May 15 – October 15, 2025

• Under the direction of the Adventure Director, the Rocks and Rope Facilitator will assist with facilitating climbing wall sessions, high and low ropes course elements, and facilitating our zip line program. This position requires having up-to-date certification in First Aid and CPR, possess a high degree of skill working with people of all ages, and preferably have facilitation experience. This is a seasonal position paying $15.31/hour with great employee perks including the opportunity to opt-in to the Rocky Mountain Living Package which includes, but is not limited to, dormitory style housing, 3 meals/day, 7 days/week, laundry, all utilities, access to all facilities at YMCA of the Rockies and being able to call Rocky Mountain National Park your backyard.

Camp Chief Ouray (CCO), established in 1908, has grown to be a premiere overnight and day camp option for youth from all over the United States and the World. We are committed to developing five core values in everything we do: Caring, Honesty, Respect, Responsibility and Faith. CCO is a part of the YMCA of the Rockies, located at Snow Mountain Ranch in Granby, CO (elevation of 8,750 feet).

View all positions for Camp Chief Ouray Summer Camp Positions Here:

Cabin Counselor, Male-Identifying: The Cabin Counselor provides leadership for, lives with, and cares for a cabin group of 8- 10 campers in male and female identifying cabins. They are expected to work collaboratively with their co-counselor to ensure each camper’s physical, social, and emotional health and safety needs are met. They are responsible for all other aspects of the camper’s experience, with the expectation of exceptional customer service. The Cabin Counselor is responsible for organizing, planning and safely running one or more activity classes each week. All cabin counselors must be at least 18 years old. Must have current certification in CPR/First Aid or be willing to obtain certification. $602/week, preferred dates: May 22nd – August 10, 2024.

Day Camp Counselor: Perform group counselor duties with a day camp of local and non-local campers. Ability to run programs for a group of up to 10 campers with a co-counselor, manage stress, handle situations, run programs, and flexibility are required. Assist in overnight camp check-in/check-out every other weekend. Depending on need, you may be required to work overnight camp during the summer. $577/week, preferred dates: May 22nd - August 10th , 2024.

Cabin Counselor Wrangler: The Cabin Counselor Wrangler provides leadership for, lives with, and cares for a cabin group of 8-10 campers in male and female identifying cabins. Additionally, they are responsible for the program delivery of the equestrian and riding program. They are expected to work collaboratively with their co-counselor and Barn Staff to ensure each camper’s physical, social, and emotional health and safety needs are met. They are responsible for all other aspects of the camper’s experience, with the expectation of exceptional customer service. They also ensure the horse herd is cared for, the barn facility and equipment cleanliness are maintained, and all barn safety protocols are met. CCW’s participate in Barn Training prior to All Staff Training.  $607/week, preferred dates: May 13 – August 10th, 2024.

Wilderness Expedition Leader: The Wilderness Expedition Leader provides 24-hour support with guidance, supervision, safety and comfort for participants during all activities. Depending on the program, you will co-lead groups of up to 10 campers through outdoor activities including: hiking, mountain biking, backpacking, white-water rafting (outfitted), horsepacking (outfitted), rock climbing (outfitted), and surfing. Sessions are either one-week programs designed to expose campers to the possibilities of outdoor recreation, two-week programs designed to provide deeper exploration, or three-week programs designed to increase confidence in backcountry travel and leadership skills. Foster valuable group dynamics, oversee outfitted activities, teach Leave No Trace principles, and how to unplug and reconnect with the outdoors. This role includes pre-trip packing, planning and post-trip camper evaluations and debriefs. Wilderness Expedition Leaders provide natural and 5 cultural history education relevant to their location. Minimum of 21 years of age. Current driver’s license with a clean driving record. Backpacking experience required. A willingness to comply with YMCA driving rules to be approved to operate YMCA vehicles is preferred but not required. $612/week, May 13th - August 10th .

View All Jobs & Apply Now: https://jobs.ymcarockies.org/job/113/camp_chief_ouray_summer_camp_positions

In Partnership with Rocky Mountain National Park, YMCA of the Rockies offers an outdoor day camp for ages 3-17. Day Camp runs June-August. Activities include hiking and camping in Rocky Mountain National Park, archery, swimming, fishing, rafting, axe-throwing, arts and crafts programming, science and engineering programming and more! ACA accredited and LNT certified.

Lead Staff:

K-2 Director– Lead counseling team dedicated to our campers in Kindergarten– 2nd grade. Providing guidance on programming for this age group. Filling in for counseling staff when necessary, observing and evaluating staff, administrative tasks such as grouping campers and pairing counselors. Must be 21 years of age and have 2 years of experience in camping industry.

3-7 Director -Lead counseling team dedicated to our campers in 3rd-7th grade. Providing guidance on programming for this age group. Filling in for counseling staff when necessary, observing and evaluating staff, administrative tasks such as grouping campers and pairing counselors. Must be 21 years of age and have 2 years of experience in camping industry.

Teen Director- Lead counseling team dedicated to our campers in 4-7th grade. Providing guidance on programming for this age group. Filling in for counseling staff when necessary, observing and evaluating staff, administrative tasks such as grouping campers, pairing counselors, providing transportation for teen camp programming and communicating with vendors. Must be 21 years of age and have 2 years of experience in camping industry.

Inclusion Director -Lead counseling team dedicated to our campers in the inclusion program (program for campers with special needs). Providing guidance on programming for these children. Filling in for counseling staff when necessary, observing and evaluating staff, administrative tasks such as grouping campers and pairing counselors. Must be 21 years of age and have 2 years of experience working with children with special needs.

Programs Coordinator– Oversee staff assigned to specialty programming for the week (arts and crafts, hiking guides, science and engineering). Provide guidance in program development, gather supplies and materials needed, monitor budget and spending. Oversee after camp programming and staffing. 

Assistant Day Camp Director– Assist Day Camp Director in all camp operations. Scheduling, supervision of staff, communication with staff and parents. This position can be 8 months, starting in January. Must be 21 years old and have 2 years of experience in outdoor recreation or camping.

Business Office/Administration:

Day Camp Nurse– Provide care and treatment to staff and campers. Must have a nursing certificate.

Business Office Administrator - Business office staff process camper registration, billing, communication (phone, email), processing camper and staff forms. Experience using Microsoft Office application is a plus!

Counseling: 

General Counselor- Lead and guide (with a co-counselor) campers in groups of up to 16 throughout all of our day camp activities. We spend all of our time in the outdoors! Counselors should expect to walk 4-8 miles per day in all weather.

Teen Counselor- Lead and guide (with a co-counselor) campers in groups of up to 16 throughout all of our day camp activities. We spend all of our time in the outdoors! Counselors should expect to walk 4-8 miles per day in all weather. Teen camp options include an overnight once per week and teen counselors are expected to work the overnight every other week throughout the summer.

Inclusion Counselor High Needs– Work one-on-one with our campers with physical special needs. Ensure we are providing proper accommodations for all campers in our program and that campers are included in all day camp activities. CNA certification or working towards a similar certification is preferred. Must have experience working with children with special needs.

Behavior Specialist- Work one-on-one with our campers with special needs or with multiple campers at a time. This position works specifically with our campers with behavioral needs. Ensure we are providing proper accommodations for all campers in our program and that campers are included in all day camp activities. Must have experience working with children with diverse abilities.

Group Programs Internship

Location: Estes Park Center

• Dates: March 24th, 2025 - October 24th, 2025

• The Group Programs Intern is responsible for assisting with the coordination of private group programming through guest outreach and activity scheduling. Interns will facilitate a variety of programs for groups, members, families, and staff as needed. These programs include wall climbing, archery, guided hiking, teambuilding, crafting and other outdoor nature activities. Interns are expected to assist with training and be a resource for other staff in regards to program development and implementation.
  

• Guest Registration Intern

• Location: Estes Park Center

• Dates: May 12th, 2025 to September 12th, 2025

• Our guest registration internship provide those interested in hospitality management a valuable experience as they gain skills in a fast-paced hotel environment. They often provide the first face-to-face impression of YMCA of the Rockies to our guests and ensure they are given accurate and in-depth information about their accommodations and activities.
  

• Activities Facilitator Internship

• Location: Snow Mountain Ranch

• Dates: May 12th, 2025 - August 15th, 2025

• Activity Facilitator interns are responsible for leading family-oriented and group programs for members and guests of all ages. This includes sports, archery, outdoor nature activities, mini-golf clubhouse, roller rink, science experiments, climbing wall, games and other family programs. Additionally, interns will assist guests at the program registration desk. 
  

• Program Desk Attendant Internship

• Location: Snow Mountain Ranch

• Dates: May 12th, 2025 - August 15th, 2025

• The Program Desk Attendant is responsible for providing excellent customer service to guests and members at the Snow Mountain Ranch Programs office. Responsibilities of Program Desk Attendant intern include opening and closing the building; managing a cash drawer and our online sign up system; being knowledgeable on and sharing information about our Programs, our Association, Rocky Mountain National Park, and Estes Park; and promoting current and future activities and offerings across the Y. 
  

• Staff Events Intern (Estes Park, May 12th, 2025 - August 22nd, 2025)
   Our Staff Events Intern will ensure a welcoming, supportive, inclusive, and fun environment for all YMCA of the Rockies' staff through planning, organizing, promoting, and leading events and activities for a diverse group of staff and volunteers. The events and activities range from International & cultural events, volunteer opportunities, hikes, intramural sports leagues, etc. Our Staff Events Interns will also support in communicating events to our staff through various platforms.
  
  

• Philanthropy Intern (Snow Mountain Ranch, May 12th, 2025 - August 15th, 2025) The Philanthropy Intern provides support for all areas of the Philanthropy department, including planning and working events, implementing recognition and stewardship efforts, data entry, donor visits, communicating with members and camp families via email and social media. The intern also helps run donor events including open houses, golf outings and cabin donor picnics, and staff giving programs.
  

• Philanthropy and Communications Intern (Estes Park Center, May 12th, 2025 - August 15th, 2025) This position supports the work of the YMCA of the Rockies, Estes Park Center, which operates a mission-based family and group conference and retreat center, serving more than 150,000 guests annually. The Philanthropy Events and Communication Intern is primarily responsible planning and working donor events, implementing recognition and stewardship efforts, data entry, donor visit and communicating with members. This position will also help with donor communication efforts, such has story gathering, newsletter writing, grant reports and case enhancements.
  

• Day Camp Business Administration Intern (Estes Park Center, May 12th, 2025 - August 8th, 2025) The Day Camp Business Administration Intern is responsible for the registration of every child that comes through day camp throughout the summer and will support with billing and finances of the Day Camp program. Ideal candidates will have strong communication and computer skills.
  

• Housekeeping Logistics Intern (Estes Park Center, May 12th - September 12th) Our housekeeping logistics internship provides experience to those interested in the behind-the-scenes coordination of a large group conference and retreat center. This position will be responsible for timeliness in preparing and updating status of lodge rooms and cabins for guest occupancy and communicate issues promptly with Housekeeping leadership.

Are you a high school graduate seeking real-world work experience and the opportunity to explore the mountains of Colorado? Maybe you’re a college student seeking opportunities for personal & professional growth while taking a break from academia. If you’re between the ages of 18 – 23 and interested in adventure, development, and community, make the Rockies your backyard and apply for the Elevate Gap Program at YMCA of the Rockies!

The Elevate Gap Program is designed for young adults who want an immersive experience with the outdoors, while gaining valuable work experience and life skills. This program offers the opportunity to live and work in the heart of the Rocky Mountains while also engaging in leadership and professional development workshops at YMCA of the Rockies. Participants work alongside seasoned YMCA staff members and gain valuable skills that prepare them for their future careers.

APPLY NOW

Program Dates: Two Sessions. Fall Semester (August – December) or Spring Semester (March – June).

• Spring 2025: March 10 – June 3, 2025 (Applications close March 3)

• Fall 2025: August 11 – December 5, 2025 (Tentative Dates)

• 2026 Dates: Coming soon!

• Program Fee: $500 (Payment terms available)

• Program Location: YMCA of the Rockies – Estes Park Center (Estes Park, CO)

• Program Structure:

• Paid seasonal employment through a Guest Service focused department

• Recreational opportunities (both scheduled and informal) to explore Rocky Mountain National Park, the National Forest, Estes Park, and Colorado.

• Opportunities for deeper reflection and relationship-building

• Service opportunities through impactful organizations

• A multi-day trip

• Regularly-scheduled small-group workshops and training sessions on topics of interest

• Opportunities to continue working at Estes Park Center for up to 4 additional months as seasonal employee, or pursue a full-time opening with us

Fall Program 2025: Dates coming soon!

Serving over 200,000 guests a year at Estes Park Center and Snow Mountain Ranch, the Activities & Recreation Staff make sure our guests have plenty to occupy their time.

Adventure Activity Facilitators are an experienced and trained group of staff who facilitate a low ropes course, instruct on a zip line (Snow Mountain Ranch), work on mountain bikes, and teach rock climbing.

Hikemasters are some of the most knowledgeable and experienced hires of the area. They have travelled miles of trails learning the terrain, the flora, the fauna, and the history of the Rocky Mountains to provide our guests with an unforgettable hiking experience.

Museum Guides keep the history of YMCA of the Rockies alive through tours of our museum and historic spots. Knowledgeable in the foundation of YMCA of the Rockies, they are a resource to guests and staff wanting to connect to our past.

Lifeguards - what vacation is complete without a pool! Lifeguards are our safeguards. They keep guests and staff safe by monitoring the pool and swimmers at all times, keeping the area safe from slips, trips, and falls, and keeping locker rooms clean and tidy. Currently hiring for Lifeguards at Snow Mountain Ranch. Preferred start date 11/01/2024 with work agreements available up to 8 months.

 Day Camp Counselors (Estes Park Center – summer months only) provide character building and life-enriching experiences for today's youth through traditional camp activities. Serving children ages 5-17, counselors lead games, hikes, exploration and much more.

The Environmental Education Team (Estes Park Center) teaches Experiential Science-Based Programs to 5th-12th grade students from around the US. Instructors get the opportunity to build relationships with their group of students over their 3-day program, in which instructors teach four three-hour science classes, two recreational activities, and two evening programs. Come make a difference and teach our youth about how to care for our environment.

Nordic Staff (Snow Mountain Ranch - winter months only) LOVE the snow! They rent and sell ski equipment, issue trail passes, ensure a clean and safe Nordic center facility, assist with race days, and answer questions about our award winning 100 kilometers of groomed ski trails. Nordic Groomers keep our ski trails open and in pristine condition. They operate chain saws, snowmobiles and other Nordic grooming equipment.

With over 860 acres at the Estes Park Center and over 5000 acres at Snow Mountain Ranch, along with and hundreds of buildings, the Buildings and Grounds Staff at both centers are responsible for the maintenance, repair and replacement of all cabins, lodges, support facilities, equipment, utilities, landscaping and roads.

The Building Maintenance Department is responsible for the upkeep of all YMCA of the Rockies buildings Staff repair minor problems on grounds in public areas and private cabin and lodge accommodations, including changing light bulbs, installing screens, and unclogging toilets. They climb ladders, scaffolding and work on roofs; shovel snow from walks, porches, stairs and roofs (primarily October to April); operate a variety of hand and power tools; assist year-round employees, learning from them on projects; pick up trash on assigned route and dispose of properly.

The Grounds Maintenance Department cares for the upkeep, beautification and improvement of the YMCA grounds. They operate and maintain underground sprinkler systems, plant and care for flowers, trees, shrubs and grass, and assist in daily trash pick-up and removal.

From Family Reunions and Conference Groups, to Faith Based Groups and Government Groups, our Conference Departments at Estes Park Center and Snow Mountain Ranch help create unique and memorable events for all participants.

Office Staff assist group leaders with coordination of conferences, special events, weddings, family reunions, and banquets.

Event Staff provide all the physical pieces needed for the group by setting up event spaces and audio/visual equipment, delivering refreshments and other requested equipment and supplies. Event staff also maintain public restrooms and lobbies.

The Wedding Assistant helps couples with pre-wedding planning, manages weddings according to contracts, and attends to post-wedding evaluations.

Serving over 200,000 guests a year at Estes Park Center and Snow Mountain Ranch, the Front Desk/Guest Registration Staff often provide the first face-to-face impression of YMCA of the Rockies to our guests and ensure they are given accurate and in-depth information about their accommodations and activities.

Hiring over 2,000 seasonal staff and volunteers a year for Estes Park Center and Snow Mountain Ranch, the Human Resources Department ensures YMCA of the Rockies' policies and systems function as intended and they take care of the needs of the staff throughout the employee's life cycle with the YMCA.

The Hiring Team screens applicants, conducts interviews, assists in hiring seasonal staff by initiating reference checks, background checks, and onboarding materials.

The Resident Life Teams ensure a welcoming, supportive, and staff-centric environment by providing clean and safe housing for staff; planning and leading staff activities; and being a helpful and reliable resource to all staff.

Work Opportunities: Not sure what you’re looking for? Apply through our General Application and we’ll help place you where we think you’d be a good fit! Departments include: Food & Beverage, Housekeeping, Building & Grounds Maintenance, Activities & Recreation, Front Desk/ Guest Registration, Human Resources, Conference & Groups, Family Reservations Agent, Chapel Ministry, Campground Host, or the Elevate Gap Program.

Work Opportunities: All year-round positions come with full benefits, employee perks, and the opportunity to work and live next to Rocky Mountain National Park. We have year-round opportunities available in almost every department; Hospitality, Food Service, Maintenance & Construction, Administration, Philanthropy, Marketing, Human Resources, Programs & Recreation, Ministry, Wedding & Conference Services, Group Sales, and Executive Leadership.

Full Benefits: Health, dental, and life Insurance, participation in YMCA Retirement Fund (an additional 12% contribution by YMCA after 2 years employment), generous PTO/vacation, free passes for skiing and golfing, free or discounted gear rentals for outdoor adventures, childcare assistance, discounted nights at YMCA of the Rockies lodges for friends and family, free family membership, and so much more.

Work less, explore more! Volunteering at YMCA of the Rockies is one of the best experiences you can give to yourself. Our volunteers are essential in supporting our Mission. In exchange for our volunteers’ time, we make sure that all volunteers have ample time to enjoy everything we have to offer. For as little as 28 volunteer service hours per week, volunteers receive free lodging, and meals, along with access to most activity benefits and facilities. We have a vast amount of volunteer opportunities that suit a variety of interests and skill levels. Make a difference today while having the adventure of a lifetime!

Hiring for Summer 2023! Work at the longest running summer camp in Colorado. Surrounded by Rocky Mountain National Park and the mountain towns of Grand Lake and Winter Park, this is the place to spend your summer as a camp counselor, kitchen staff member, facilities coordinator, or adventure & trip leader.

Camp Chief Ouray is the residential camp at YMCA of the Rockies and located on the property of Snow Mountain Ranch.

Camp Chief Ouray staff are expected to create a safe space for all campers, families, and staff while allowing development and growth for all. They should possess the social and emotional skills necessary to build rapport and positive relationships, putting camper needs first. Responding to camper and customer requests for service, troubleshooting problems and developing solutions in a patient and respectful manner is an important aspect of our work. All staff should contribute to a cooperative and positive camp community, take responsibility for the upkeep of the camp facility and cleanliness of camp. Assist with other departments as needed.

Positions include: Cabin Counselors, Day Camp Counselors, Adventure & Trip Leaders, Ropes Course Directors, Camp Nurse, Media Specialists, Wranglers, Program Specialists (arts & craft, outdoor skills, general), Facilities Coordinators, Kitchen Staff, Office Assistants, and Trail Coordinators.

Additional Information About YMCA of the Rockies Who we are

Rocky Mountain Living Package:

All seasonal staff and volunteers receive the option to opt-in to our exclusive Rocky Mountain Living Package! YMCA of the Rockies strives to offer an unforgettable staff experience for people who dream of working and living in the Rocky Mountains. We offer incredible perks that can’t be matched.

• Proximity to Colorado mountain adventures

  • Both centers are close to Rocky Mountain National Park.

  • Access to a variety of terrain for outdoor activities (trails, National Forest, alpine lakes).

  • Both centers offer walkability between housing, dining, work sites, and fun.

• Lifelong friendships

  • Our experienced year-round staff and hundreds of seasonal employees offer great networking opportunities and friendships.

• Meeting People from All Around the World

  • We host staff from over 25 different countries and celebrate each other’s heritage through engaging cultural events.

• Inclusive Environment to Grow Professionally and Personally

  • YMCA of the Rockies is a place where all are welcome and can be their best selves. We welcome and support all staff who are looking to grow and expand their horizons.

  • Professional growth opportunities are available through YMCA of the USA trainings.

• Wildlife Viewing

  • Our proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park means we have a lot of wildlife in our backyard! This includes elk, moose, deer, and bear.

• Serve the YMCA Mission

  • The work you do here matters! As a non-profit organization with a mission to build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all, staff have the opportunity to play a key-role in helping cultivate our impact.

• Hassle-Free Living

  • YMCA of the Rockies seasonal employees live on-grounds for a base-fee per week. No credit check or rental agreement required. This includes:

    • Housing in dormitory style rooms

    • Utilities (electric, heat, water)

    • Internet

    • Laundry

    • Cleaning supplies and vacuums

    • Housing lobbies with refrigerators, microwaves, Keurig’s, large screen TV’s, and cable

    • 3 buffet style meals daily – option to eat-in dining room or take meals to-go.

    • Access to all YMCA of the Rockies facilities, free gear rentals, free or discounted tickets to local attractions, and the ability to sign-up for ski passes, indoor climbing, or golf.

  • Access to the Staff Experience Team who provide:

    • Individual support to you

    • Daily activity options

    • Excursions like hikes, concerts, sport games, cultural experiences, seasonal adventures, and more!