Assistant Director (Big Cove YMCA Camp)

Title: Assistant Director, Big Cove YMCA Camp

Position Status: Full Time

Compensation: $38,000 - $42,000 per year

Start Date: April 11, 2025

Locations: Big Cove Camp in Thorburne, NS, and Community YMCA and John W. Lindsay YMCA in Halifax, NS

Since 1853 the YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth has been connecting Nova Scotians to build healthy communities.  As a non-profit charity we provide vital services, including Health, Employment, Childcare/Camps, Immigrant Services, and Youth Development.   

At the YMCA we know that our ability to partner with others in our community is through the passion and dedication of our employees and volunteers. In joining the YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth you will become part of a dedicated network of individuals with great passion for providing a holistic support to the communities in which we serve. 

The Opportunity

Big Cove YMCA Camp was founded in 1889 and is the oldest overnight camp in Canada. Big Cove Camp is located on over 100 acres in Thornburn, Nova Scotia and has a total summer enrolment of 820 campers ages 6–17. Activities and programs are focused on the environment, leadership, canoeing, kayaking, high and low ropes, swimming and out-tripping. In the spring and fall season Big Cove YMCA Camp operates an outdoor centre offering educational programming and site rentals.

The Assistant Director, reporting to the Director of Big Cove Camp Operations, will be responsible for ensuring a safe, supportive, and enjoyable camp experience for both campers and staff. Prioritizing safety, the Assistant Director will collaborate with the Director to develop and implement up-to-date processes and standards tailored to the needs of Big Cove YMCA Camp. Additionally, the Assistant Director will assist with administrative tasks, team development, and the daily operations and programming of the camp. During the off-season (November-April), the Assistant Director will assume additional responsibilities within the Association in Halifax.

Responsibilities

• Assist with recruitment, hiring, coaching and leading a team of 55 staff and volunteers committed to building strong, inclusive and camper-focused camp culture for both summer and shoulder season operations
• Recruitment and organization of shoulder season programs including Outdoor Education and rental groups including group scheduling and staff training
• Running day-to-day operations to ensure the success of the summer camp season.
• Develop & deliver innovative training that supports professional development of staff and volunteers.
• Communication with schools and rental groups pre, during and post trip regarding their needs and experience.
• Develop and deliver innovative programs to school and rental groups that meet individual needs, including curriculum-based programming
• During off seasons, this position will collaborate and support additional Child Engagement programs in the Halifax Region including, but not limited to YPHD, Day Camps and Licensed Childcare.
• Additional duties as assigned by the General Manager, Child Engagement and Operations

Qualifications and Skills

• Degree or post-secondary education in Outdoor Education, Recreation, Education or a combination of education and work-related experience
• Previous supervisory experience in camping, youth recreation and/or experiential education
• Experience with MS Office applications and online communication tools
• Thorough knowledge of camping practices and above average public relation skills
• Class 4 Driver’s Licence is an asset
• Canadian Boating Licence is an asset
• National Lifeguard, ACCT Level 2 is an asset

We Offer

• Participation in Comprehensive Group Benefits and Pension Program 
• Strong Work Life Balance Programs (i.e. Paid Personal and Vacation Days) 
• Individual & Family YMCA Membership options
• Access to discounted childcare/program 

Conditions of Employment

• A current and satisfactory Criminal Record Check/Vulnerable Sector Check
• Child Abuse Registry Check
• Proof of valid First Aid and CPR training 
• Proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 or have a valid exemption prior to start date
• Employees will be required to attend YMCA Child Protection Training

Apply Today

Please apply online at http://www.ymcahfx.ca/job-postings/ by April 7, 2025.

We look forward to hearing from you! 

The YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth is an equal opportunity employer that values the diversity of people and communities and is committed to excellence and inclusion in our Association. We are committed to an environment that is barrier free. If you require accommodation during the hiring process, please inform us in advance to arrange reasonable and appropriate accommodation. Applicants are encouraged to self-identify.