Camp Counsellor
Title: Camp Counsellor
Location: Big Cove Camp, Thorburn, NS
Position Status: Full-Time Temporary
Start Date: June 2026
Compensation: $600+ per week
Vacancies: 32
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:
Camp Counsellors live with and take care of a cabin of 8-10 campers and work alongside a co-counsellor. They are directly responsible for the care and supervision of their campers, providing each camper with a positive camping experience. Counsellors instruct cabin programs as well as interest group programs which include swimming, canoeing, drama, archery, high ropes and many more. This position requires strong leadership and independence, teamwork, a caring nature and a willingness to have fun. Throughout the summer, counsellors may have the opportunity to have Leadership shadows, take part in a maintenance or kitchen rotation, or be a leader in the 8-week leadership program.
In this role, you will:
Camper Care & Supervision
- Live in-cabin with 8–10 campers alongside a co-counsellor.
- Ensure the physical, emotional, and social wellbeing of campers at all times.
- Provide guidance, support, and role modeling for campers, promoting a positive and inclusive environment.
- Implement cabin programs and routines to support camper engagement, emotional regulation, and personal growth.
Program Delivery
- Lead and instruct cabin-based programs and interest groups, including swimming, canoeing, drama, archery, high ropes, and other activities.
- Facilitate engaging, safe, and developmentally appropriate programming for all campers.
Staff Collaboration & Leadership
- Work collaboratively with co-counsellors, Section Directors, and Leadership staff to maintain cabin culture and camper wellbeing.
- Participate in staff training, mentorship, and team-building exercises.
Camp Operations Support
- Assist with kitchen duties, including dishes and meal cleanup.
- Support facility maintenance, including cleaning shared spaces and program areas.
- Participate in groundskeeping, outdoor tidying, and general camp upkeep.
- Assist with trail and campsite maintenance to ensure safe and accessible program spaces.
Safety & Emergency Responsibilities
- Follow YMCA Child Protection policies, health, and safety standards at all times.
- Respond appropriately to camper concerns, conflicts, or emergencies, seeking support from Section Directors or the Emergency Response Team as needed.
- Participate in emergency response procedures and drills as required.
Communication & Documentation
- Maintain clear communication with Section Directors and other staff regarding camper needs, behaviour, and program participation.
- Document incidents, camper concerns, and program notes as required.
Education and skills qualifications:
Key Competencies:
- Must be 17 years of age by December 31, 2026
- Strong work ethic
- Positive team-oriented attitude
- Good judgement
- Patience with children and an interest in their growth and development
Minimum qualifications:
- Standard First Aid and CPR-C
- Bronze Cross
- WHIMIS
Recommended qualifications:
- NLS
- Wilderness First Aid
- Outdoor Council of Canada
- Paddle Canada Certification
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.