Adventure Director

Title: Adventure Director 

Location: Big Cove Camp, Thorburn, NS 

Position Status: Full-Time, Temporary 

Start Date: June 2026 

Compensation: $650+ per week 

There is potential inside all of us – we all have it in us to shine. 

Every charity exists to help solve a problem – our charity exists to help solve many problems, from childcare shortages, social isolation, mental health issues, access to wellness, and more. Today, our network is spread across 100+ program locations in HRM and the province, meeting the most urgent needs of our communities in mental health supports, accessible childcare, supporting an increasing immigrant population, safe spaces for youth to grow and lead, helping to navigate a precarious labour market, delivering wellness programming for all, and creating community for isolated older adults.  

We give people the tools, encouragement, and safe space to discover their inner strength. When they know someone’s in their corner, with unconditional support, they realize they can do more than they thought possible. It’s your support, expertise, and guidance that helps people ignite their full potential and shape our neighborhoods into vibrant and healthy communities.   

With us at their side, they can Shine On.  

About the role: 

The  Adventure Director oversees all components of the Adventure Program at Big Cove YMCA Camp. This includes initiatives, team building, low ropes, high ropes, the zip line, and the climbing tree. The Adventure Director ensures safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate adventure experiences for all campers while supporting and mentoring staff throughout the season. 

This position is part of the Resource Team and works collaboratively with other program leads to deliver exceptional camp programming. 

In this role, you will: 

Program Leadership 

• Lead, supervise, and deliver all adventure-based activities, including low ropes, high ropes, zip line, climbing tree, and team-building initiatives. 
• Design and implement a progressive, age-appropriate Adventure Program for all camper groups. 
• Ensure all adventure activities align with YMCA values, camp policies, and ACCT standards. 

Staff Training & Support 

• Train all camp staff in: 
• General safety rules for each element 
• Proper use, inspection, and care of equipment 
• Facilitation techniques for initiatives, low ropes, and high ropes 
• Provide ongoing coaching, supervision, and mentorship to staff working in adventure areas. 

Risk Management & Safety 

• Conduct daily safety checks of equipment and course elements. 
• Maintain accurate documentation, equipment logs, and inspection records. 
• Ensure safe operation of all challenge course elements, responding appropriately to incidents or emergencies. 
• Maintain adventure equipment in safe, organized condition. 

Collaboration & Camp Support 

• Work closely with the Resource Team to support camp-wide programming. 
• Assist other program areas as needed to ensure smooth and engaging camper experiences. 
• Maintain clear communication with camp leadership regarding safety, scheduling, and program needs.

Additional Responsibilities

• Assist with kitchen duties, including dishes and meal cleanup. 
• Support facility maintenance, including cleaning shared spaces and program areas. 
• Participate in groundskeeping, such as outdoor tidying and basic upkeep. 
• Assist with trail and campsite maintenance to ensure safe and accessible program spaces. 

Education and skills qualifications:  

Required:

• Must be 19 years of age by December 31, 2026 
• Bronze Cross
• Standard First Aid & CPR-C
• WHMIS certification
• Challenge Course Practitioner Certificate or willingness to complete customized training for Big Cove by Adventure Works or another ACCT-accredited trainer

Experience facilitating:

• High ropes 
• Low ropes 
• Zip line operations 
• Team-building and initiative activities 
• Group facilitation in outdoor/adventure settings  

Recommended:

• National Lifeguard Service (NLS)
• Class 4 Driver’s Licence
• Canadian Boating Licence

To apply: 

Please apply online at https://ymcahfx.ca/workwithus/.

Please note that all successful candidates are required to provide: 

• A Criminal Record Check, Vulnerable Sector Check, and Child Abuse Register Check (less than 6 months old), if 18 years of age or older 
• A valid First Aid and CPR Training 

Please note that background checks are reviewed on an individual basis – offenses, if any, are based on role and Child Safeguarding requirements, and may not eliminate candidates from employment at our YMCA. 

At the YMCA, we are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace where every team member feels valued, respected, and empowered to bring their full, authentic self to work. We believe that a variety of perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences enrich our organization, enabling us to better serve our community and achieve our mission. As an equal opportunity employer, we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including Black, Indigenous, People of Colour, racially diverse, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, gender-diverse people, people with diverse abilities, members of ethnic minorities and faith groups, foreign-born residents, and veterans to apply. 

If you require accommodation during the hiring process, please inform us in advance to arrange reasonable and appropriate accommodation.