YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly
YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly
Currently recruiting for the season from May 25th, 2024 to August 9th, 2024.
Soak up the cool mountain air amidst a picturesque 1,200 acre forested campus. Come explore the Blue Ridge mountains and the Asheville music scene. Make lifelong friends and memories. Earn money for college and beyond. Grow as a leader. Find your way. That’s the Blue Ridge experience!
Located in in the heart of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina in the small mountain town of Black Mountain.
- Location
- North Carolina
- Season
- Spring, Summer, and Fall
- Staff size
- 150 in the summer, 80 year round
- Housing
- Whether included in the compensation package or provided at a cost, housing is provided for staff.
- Family housing available
- No
- Single occupancy housing available
- Yes
- Meals
- Provided
- Cell phone service
- Yes, most carriers
- Internet access
- Good
About YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly
YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly was founded over 100 years ago as a conference center and mountain getaway, but also with a vision to be a leadership training center. Our collegiate leadership program continues this legacy of developing leaders by furnishing valuable work and internship opportunities to college students, recent graduates and those still searching for their path.
Working at Blue Ridge means making a greater contribution. Our staff from all walks of life and in every department are the heartbeat of what we do: impacting the lives of our guests, developing the youth we serve, and building community with one another. In addition to living out our mission each day at work, staff have the opportunity to enjoy life on campus via various social events and outings. Staff trips to local area attractions including the historic Biltmore Estate and downtown Asheville occur regularly, and campfires, movies, game nights, pool parties and outdoor recreational trips are an essential part of the Blue Ridge staff experience.
The Employee Experience
As a Blue Ridge Leader, you'll live, work and play with driven, adventure-seeking, and mission-minded individuals who have come to our Mountain to learn, grow and thrive. You'll enjoy a positive, nurturing work environment, plentiful staff-led recreational and outdoor activities, and a season spent living and working in beautiful Western North Carolina.
Ideal Candidate
The Blue Ridge spirit captures those who seek a community to call their own. It lifts up those for whom friendship, fun and outdoor exploration are a way of life. And through our vibrant international cultural exchange program, the bonds of friendship and community stretch across all corners of the globe. We seek:
- Bright, motivated and passionate individuals who thrive in leadership positions.
- Service-minded people exploring a career in hospitality.
- Outgoing personalities who want to live for the moment and be a part of a community that welcomes all.
- Outdoor enthusiasts who are inspired by fresh air, cool breezes, mountain landscapes and bountiful trails and streams right outside their backdoor.
Room and Board
Younts Hall is our staff residence hall during the Fall, Winter and Spring. It offers furnished rooms, WiFi, and ample common areas including a fully equipped kitchen and dining room. In Spring and Fall, 2 people per room is standard; Winter is traditionally more quiet and there may be a span of some weeks where you will not have a roommate. (Depending on your employment date, the Director of Human Resources will let you know). Rooms include a twin bed, dresser, closet, desk, chair, and mirror and vanity station per person. Bedding and towels are included. Younts Hall is divided into a male and female side, with shared bathrooms, sinks and showers on each. Summer housing (June and July) is in Weatherford Hall and employees can expect 2 people per room, with an in-room bathroom suite.
The staff meal plan is buffet-style. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are provided for all staff whenever our guests are being served, and a variety of healthy options, including fresh fruit and a deluxe salad bar, are available at every meal.
Employee Perks
• Opportunity to live and work with other young people from around the world and make valuable connections and friendships
• Time to enjoy life in the mountains
• Competitive hourly pay
• International ambassadorship opportunities
• Free college credit course (optional)
• Discounted social events and trips including whitewater rafting, the Blue Ridge Parkway and free YMCA membership
• Free WiFi in dorm rooms
• Driving distance to the Asheville social scene
Getting Here and Getting Around
YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly is located 20 minutes from historic downtown Asheville, and less than 40 minutes from the Asheville Regional Airport. We provide free transportation to and from the airport or bus station. You will not need a vehicle on campus, as resident housing and working facilities are all within walking distance, but those who have vehicles are encouraged to bring them for social and other outings. For those without personal transportation, our resident life coordinators are always available to offer or organize rides.
In addition to being conveniently located near the city of Asheville and the renowned Biltmore Estate, we are less than 15 minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway and within driving distance to beautiful natural landscapes including Pisgah National Forest and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
For Fun
• Hiking
• Swimming and pool parties
• Volleyball, ultimate frisbee, soccer, kickball, basketball
• Open Crafts
• Disc golf
• Cornhole
• Staff barbecues
• Whitewater rafting trips
• Biltmore Estate nearby
• Historic downtown Asheville
• Waterfalls through the local area
• The Blue Ridge Parkway
Current Job Openings
- Applicants should have previous outdoor programs experience
- A high level of physical fitness and ability to work well at heights
- Be comfortable leading groups of various sizes, and participants of all ages
- First Aid and CPR certificates are required, or able to be trained soon after hire
- Commitment to the mission, values and ethics of the YMCA
- Must be willing to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and evenings
- Provide a safe and incident-free experience for all participants
- Facilitate programs on all program structures and in all program areas
- Serve as a team leader when needed
- Hourly pay $12.00 - $14.00 per hour.
- Free on-grounds housing in a furnished room. All utilities Wi-Fi, and common areas including a fully equipped kitchen and dining room are included. NO BILLS EACH MONTH
- Free meals in our dining facilities whenever conference groups are being served
- 9 month contract
- Free individual member to the Y of WNC, after a 14 day review period
- Discount on YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly staff activities
- Discounted stays at YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly
- The ideal candidate will have a leadership background in hospitality or customer service.
- All candidates must be outgoing, courteous and customer-oriented and possess strong organizational and communication skills
- All candidates must be physically fit and mentally sharp
- Candidates must be strong decision makers, adept at leading others and possess independent initiative and creative problem solving skills
- Must work well in stressful, high-pressure situations, often under deadline pressure
- All work must be completed with attention to detail, speed, accuracy and neatness
- Previous audio-visual experience is preferred but not required
- Must be willing to work a variety of different shifts, including mornings, evenings and weekends
- Valid driver’s license (preferable)
- Setting all meeting spaces neatly and in accordance with groups’ requests, including seating and table setup and breakdown
- Cleaning and maintaining all meeting space areas, including floor care
- Setting up and operating audio-visual equipment, including microphones, video projectors, in-house and portable sound systems, soundboards and lighting
- Working directly with guest leadership during the event to ensure their meeting space and overall needs are met
- Communicating and working with other departments to provide for a seamless and pleasant guest experience
- This position is “hands on” and not a desk job. It often involves long periods of physically demanding work, so physical strength and stamina are required. The ability to lift and carry 50 lbs. and remain on one's feet for long stretches is required
- Commitment to the mission, values and ethics of the YMCA
- Must be willing to work a flexible schedule including weekends and evenings as needed
- Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills
- Ability to multitask and work in a team setting
- Hourly pay is $11.00 per hour.
- FREE Room and Board for those living on campus. NO BILLS EACH MONTH
- Room and board included for all summer. Furnished room, all utilities, Wi-Fi, and common areas with a fully equipped kitchen and dining room are included
- Discount on YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly staff activities.
- Discounted stays at YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly.
- All candidates must be outgoing, courteous and customer-oriented and possess strong organizational and communication skills
- All candidates must be physically fit and mentally sharp
- All work must be completed with attention to detail, speed, accuracy and neatness
- Must be willing to work a variety of different shifts, including mornings, evenings and weekends
- Valid driver’s license preferable
- Communicating and working with other departments to provide seamless and pleasant guest experience
- It often involves long periods of physically demanding work, so physical strength, stamina, and the ability to lift and carry 50 lbs. and remain on one's feet for long stretches is required
- Commitment to the mission, values and focus of the YMCA
- Must be willing to work a flexible schedule including weekends and evenings as needed
- Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills
- Ability to multitask and work in a team setting
- Serve and bus tables
- Position is in a fast-paced environment requiring the ability to work in different capacities such as dish washing, food preparation, and customer service
- Hourly pay is $11.00 per hour.
- FREE Room and Board for those living on campus. NO BILLS EACH MONTH
- Room and board included for all summer. Furnished room, all utilities, Wi-Fi, and common areas with a fully equipped kitchen and dining room are included
- Discount on YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly staff activities.
- Discounted stays at YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly.
- Possess strong communication and customer service skills
- Knowledge of basic cleaning methods and the safe use of cleaning chemicals
- Ability to follow instructions and to perform medium to heavy physical work
- Must be able to communicate effectively with supervisors and guests
- Proactive with a meticulous eye for detail
- Must be able to perform assigned duties with attention to detail, speed, and accuracy
- Must work well under limited supervision
- Must be willing to work a variety of different shifts, including weekends
- Valid driver’s license preferable
- Cleaning guest rooms and assisting with daily room service
- Maintain all guest rooms to the highest standards of cleanliness and comfort
- Tasks include but are not limited to vacuuming, mopping, bed making, scrubbing, dusting, disinfecting, and replenishing supplies
- Consistently offer professional, friendly and courteous service
- Maintain a positive team dynamic within the Housekeeping Department and with all other departments
- Ability to multitask and work in a team setting
- Hourly pay is $11.00 per hour.
- FREE Room and Board for those living on campus. NO BILLS EACH MONTH
- Room and board included for all summer. Furnished room, all utilities, Wi-Fi, and common areas with a fully equipped kitchen and dining room are included
- Discount on YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly staff activities.
- Discounted stays at YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly.
- One year’s experience with outdoor landscaping preferable
- Involves physically strenuous work requiring a high level of fitness
- Must enjoy working in the outdoors throughout the seasons
- Have a positive attitude and a willingness to work in a team environment
- Be hardworking, responsible and of sound character
- Possess good time management and problem solving skills
- Have experience with routine maintenance and repair
- Previous experience or the ability to cross-train in outdoor adventure programs is a plus
- Commitment to the mission of the YMCA and upholding its values and ethics
- Outgoing and engaging personality along with the ability to connect with people from a diverse array of backgrounds. We are seeking a dynamic candidate who truly enjoys working with and serving our diverse clientele
- Must be willing to work a variety of different shifts, including mornings, evenings and weekends
- Valid driver’s license preferable
- Maintain well-kept and groomed outdoor grounds spaces, including all athletic fields, trails, building entrances and roads
- Primary duties include lawn mowing, weed eating, trash removal, storm damage cleanup, wood splitting, leaf blowing
- Working knowledge of mechanized grounds equipment is required, including zero-turn riding mowers, weed eaters, leaf blowers and wood-splitters
- Hourly pay is $11.00 per hour.
- FREE Room and Board for those living on campus. NO BILLS EACH MONTH
- Room and board included for all summer. Furnished room, all utilities, Wi-Fi, and common areas with a fully equipped kitchen and dining room are included
- Discount on YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly staff activities.
- Discounted stays at YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly.
- Monitors activities at the pool to prevent accidents
- Cautions swimmers regarding unsafe practices and safety hazards; enforces and adheres to pool rules and regulations
- Inspects facilities for cleanliness; completes general pool cleaning and maintenance duties
- Maintains order in the pool and adjoining areas
- Completes regular cleaning of the deck, pool, and restrooms
- Must be available on weekends. Hours may vary.
- Demonstrated commitment to the mission, philosophy and vision of YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly
- Provide a safe and incident-free experience for all participants
- Facilitate programs on all program structures and in all program areas
- Serve as a team leader when needed
- Pool staff must be a certified American Red Cross lifeguard or have the Y lifeguard certification, First Aid cert, and CPR cert. Prior certification preferable.
- Hourly pay is $12.00 per hour.
- FREE Room and Board for those living on campus. NO BILLS EACH MONTH
- Room and board included for all summer. Furnished room, all utilities, Wi-Fi, and common areas with a fully equipped kitchen and dining room are included
- Discount on YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly staff activities.
- Discounted stays at YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly.
- Willingness to consistently work a variety of shifts as needed, including evenings, weekends and holidays
- Customer service, organization and management skills
- Excellent communication skills, including the ability to draft professional and effectively written correspondence
- Thorough understanding of housing and registration procedures, group contracts, property management systems, and Excel spreadsheet software
- Professional demeanor and the ability to work well with staff, volunteers, stakeholders and partner organizations. The capacity to develop and maintain meaningful relationships at various levels inside and outside the organization is essential for success
- Motivation and commitment to work independently and be self-directed
- Professional image and strong written and verbal communication skills
- Commitment to the mission, values and ethics of the YMCA
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to change
- Outgoing and engaging personality along with the ability to connect with people from a diverse array of backgrounds. We are seeking a dynamic candidate who truly enjoys working with and serving our diverse clientele
- Respond graciously and effectively to guest phone calls and front desk inquiries
- Check in and check out guests as they arrive and depart
- Complete billing and statistical information sheets
- Input housing reservations and rooming assignments
- Work efficiently in a computer-based hospitality management system
- Participate in the check-in and check-out process, so that it is swift, efficient and pleasant
- Assist guests with requests, issues, and complaints with empathy and a focus on guest satisfaction
- Record and communicate all items related to group billing to the Business Services Manager for accuracy of invoices
- Maintain harmonious working relationships with operating department heads
- Ensure that guests’ needs are met by empathetically assisting with all requests or complaints and promptly resolving any issues
- Cultivate a spirit of cooperation and teamwork throughout the organization
- Personal transportation preferred
- Hourly pay is $11.00 per hour.
- FREE Room and Board for those living on campus. NO BILLS EACH MONTH
- Room and board included for all summer. Furnished room, all utilities, Wi-Fi, and common areas with a fully equipped kitchen and dining room are included
- Discount on YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly staff activities.
- Discounted stays at YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly.
- Applicants should have previous outdoor programs experience
- A high level of physical fitness and ability to work well at heights
- Be comfortable leading groups of various sizes, and participants of all ages
- First Aid and CPR certificates are required, or able to be trained soon after hire
- Commitment to the mission, values and ethics of the YMCA
- Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and evenings
- Provide a safe and incident-free experience for all participants
- Facilitate programs on all program structures and in all program areas
- Serve as a team leader when needed
- Hourly pay is $11.00 per hour.
- FREE Room and Board for those living on campus. NO BILLS EACH MONTH
- Room and board included. Furnished room, all utilities, Wi-Fi, and common areas with a fully equipped kitchen and dining room are included
- Discount on YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly staff activities.
- Discounted stays at YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly.
Adventure Programs Leader
Adventure Programs Leader - Spring to Fall (9mo) - Our Programs Services Department delivers a wide variety of programming which increases confidence, teamwork and leadership in youth. As a field leader, the applicant will have the opportunity to work with a wide variety of schools and other organizations, facilitating team building and personal development for our guests. Adventure Programs Leaders lead groups on both high and low ropes challenge courses and on other activities like environmental education, night hikes, mountain biking, archery, childcare, and crafts. Work schedule is part-time and includes weekdays, weekends and occasional evenings. Schedules and weekly hours vary according to conference group schedule. Contract will span 9 months through the Spring, Summer, and Fall seasons. If you are looking for a longer-term seasonal position, this is a great option for you!
QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS
RESPONSIBILITIES
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
Audio Visual Conference Services
Our Conference Services department delivers exceptional logistical and audio visual tech support to our guests, ensuring all our conferences run smoothly. The applicant will have the opportunity to work with a wide variety of schools and other organizations, helping to setup and tear down meeting spaces according to individual group needs. Schedules and weekly hours vary according to the conference programs schedule.
QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS
RESPONSIBILITIES
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
Dining Room Attendant
YMCA of Blue Ridge Assembly is currently seeking applicants to work in our Dining Room for Summer 2021. If you enjoy serving, meeting people, and offering world class service, apply now! Applicant must be able to provide fast, courteous and efficient service and work in unison with local, regional and international employees to provide amazing customer service for a variety of diverse conference groups. This position will work in a variety of assignments such as dining room service, table side service, cleaning dining tables and floors and dish washing.
QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS
RESPONSIBILITIES
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
Housekeeping
YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly in Black Mountain is currently hiring housekeeping room attendants to join a dynamic and energetic staff working in a fast-paced hospitality setting. Housekeeping room attendants are responsible for servicing guest rooms while guests are in residence, and then cleaning guest rooms upon their departure. The position is essential to the operations of YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly and plays a critical role in ensuring a pleasant experience for our guests.
QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS
RESPONSIBILITIES
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
Groundskeeping
YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly is committed to delivering exceptional experiences for our 33,000 annual guests who come from a wide variety of backgrounds. We believe our guests’ experiences shape them into the leaders of tomorrow. We are seeking an enthusiastic groundskeeper to help maintain our 1,200 acre woodland campus. A love of the outdoors is a must!
QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS
RESPONSIBILITIES
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
Lifeguard
Our Programs Services Department delivers a wide variety of programming which increases both confidence and leadership among our young guests. The lifeguard position is essential to maintaining the safety of our guests. As a lifeguard, the applicant will ensure proper safety procedures and precautions being followed at our pool. Work schedule is part-time and includes weekdays, weekends and occasional evenings. Schedules and weekly hours vary according to the conference programs schedule.
QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS
RESPONSIBILITIES
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
Guest Services Receptionist
YMCA of Blue Ridge Assembly is committed to delivering exceptional experiences for our 33,000 annual guests who come from a variety of backgrounds. We believe our guests’ experiences here help to shape and form them into the leaders of tomorrow. Those in our Guest Services Department are the face of Blue Ridge to each and every guest, ensuring that they have a pleasant and smooth stay on the Mountain.
QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS
RESPONSIBILITIES
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
Adventure Programs - Summer
At YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly, we are committed to delivering exceptional experiences for our more than 33,000 annual guests who come from around the country and the world.
Our Programs Service Department delivers a wide variety of programming which increases leadership and self-confidence among participants. As a field leader, the applicant will have the opportunity to work with a variety of schools and other organizations, facilitating team building and personal development for our guests. Adventure Programs Leaders lead groups on both high and low ropes challenge courses and in other activities like environmental education, night hikes, mountain biking, archery, childcare, and crafts. Schedules and weekly hours vary according to the conference programs schedule. There is a possibility to extend the contract for further seasons depending on performance.
QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS
RESPONSIBILITIES
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
How to Apply
Please visit our website via the links below and complete an online application. Email three references, including at least two current or previous managers, to the Recruiting Staff at recruiting@yblueridge.org
Contact Info
- Bruno Vandorsee
- bvandorsee@yblueridge.org
- (828) 669-8422 ext 481
- blueridgeassembly.org






