Summer Day Camp Site Lead

Title: Summer Day Camp Site Lead

Position Status: Full-Time, Contract

Salary: $15.75 to $19.00 per hour

Start Date: June 23 to August 29

Locations: Halifax, Dartmouth, Bedford, Cole Harbour, Sackville

The YMCA is a place where everyone belongs, we are committed to providing equal opportunities for all, in a welcoming space that is both nurturing and fun – a community of shared responsibilities, where children and families can thrive.

There are lots of places to work, but few opportunities to do work that really matters, and the Y is one of those rare places. When you join our team, you don’t just get a job – you’ll embark on an exciting path of career development. You will be part of a team that provides children, youth, and adults of all ages reach their goals and feel a sense of belonging to their community.

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

We are seeking a team of experienced, dedicated, and passionate Team Leads to deliver outstanding programming, customer service, and support for children and staff across our nine Summer Day Camp locations within the Halifax Regional Municipality, including Bedford, Cole Harbour, Sackville, Dartmouth, and Halifax. YMCA Day Camp staff work collaboratively to foster a safe, fun, and inclusive environment for children. As a Site Lead, you will take on a leadership role within this setting, serving as both a role model and a problem solver for the team.

Responsibilities 

As a Day Camp Site Lead working with children ages 5-12, your key responsibilities will include:

• Supervision: Ensure the safety and well-being of campers during all activities, whether on-site or on excursions. Actively engage in camp activities and address group needs. 
• Activity Planning: Organize and lead age-appropriate games, crafts, and other activities based on weekly themes, to engage campers. Contribute to the development of weekly schedules and the planning of new activities.
• Guidance and Support: Provide guidance to campers in managing social interactions and resolving conflicts. Offer support to fellow staff members and uphold YMCA’s values and best practices in all interactions.
• Communication: Lead communication efforts with parents, providing updates on their child’s experience and addressing any concerns. Relay site needs and challenges to the camp director, working collaboratively to find solutions.
• Teamwork and Role Modeling: Collaborate with fellow counsellors and staff to create a positive and inclusive camp environment. Demonstrate exemplary behaviours and attitudes, serving as a role model for both campers and staff in terms of conduct and childcare best practices.
• Safety: Enforce camp safety rules and protocols, including first aid and emergency response procedures, to ensure a safe environment for all participants. Conduct regular headcounts to maintain safety standards and child safeguarding practices.
• Adaptability: Remain flexible and adaptable in handling unexpected situations and changes to the daily schedule, ensuring smooth camp operations.
• Inclusion: Cultivate an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity and ensures all campers feel respected and valued.
• Fun and Creativity: Approach each day with a caring and understanding attitude, taking opportunities to connect with campers and create a memorable, enjoyable camp experience.

Qualifications & Skills

• High School diploma, or equivalent combination of education and experience, with a strong character reference
• Experience working with children and youth.
• Success in planning/organizing games, sports, arts, crafts, cultural activities, lead field trips, etc.
• Cross-cultural communication skills to work with youth, parents, and staff
• Ability to meet multiple, competing deadlines and priorities
• Strong attention to detail 
• Excellent verbal, written, and presentation/workshop facilitation skills
• Strong interpersonal skills

We Offer

• Participation in a comprehensive Group Benefits and Pension Program
• Strong work/life balance programs, i.e., paid vacation and wellness days
• Individual and family YMCA Membership options
• Access to discounted childcare and programs

Conditions of Employment

• Clear Child Abuse Register Check
• Current and satisfactory Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Check (must be dated less than 6 months from hire date)
• Completion of YMCA’s Child Safety & Protection Orientation within first week of employment
• Completion of YMCA Child Safeguarding Training within probationary period
• Valid First Aid and CPR certificate if required for the role