Site Lead, Summer Day Camps
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 neighbourhoods into vibrant and healthy communities.
With us at their side, they can Shine On.
Total Compensation Includes:
- Complimentary YMCA membership to our Health & Fitness facilities
- Access to Y at Home, where you can participate in fitness programs from your own home
- Discounts on YMCA childcare and camp programs
- Complimentary wellbeing and counselling services
About the Role
We are seeking a team of experienced, dedicated, and passionate Site Leads to deliver and support outstanding and intentional programming across our six Summer Day Camp locations within the Halifax Regional Municipality, including Spryfield, Cole Harbour, Sackville, and Halifax. As a Site Lead, you will take on a leadership role within one of the locations, serving as both a role model and a problem solver for the team.
Key Responsibilities:
- Ensure the safety and well-being of campers ages 5–12 during all activities, whether on-site or on excursions
- Actively engage in camp activities and address group needs
- Organize and lead age-appropriate and intentional games, crafts, and other activities
- Contribute to the development of weekly schedules and the planning of new activities
- 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
- Lead communication efforts with parents/guardians, providing updates and addressing concerns
- Relay site needs and challenges to the Camp Director, collaborating to find solutions
- Collaborate with fellow counsellors and staff to create a positive and inclusive camp environment
- Serve as a role model in conduct and childcare best practices
- Enforce camp safety rules, first aid, and emergency response procedures
- Conduct regular headcounts to maintain safety standards and child safeguarding practices
- Remain flexible in handling unexpected situations and schedule changes
- Cultivate an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity
- Ensure the camp location is left in good standing, following proper cleaning and closing procedures
- Approach each day with a caring and understanding attitude, connecting with campers to create a memorable experience
- Other duties as assigned
Education and Skills Qualifications:
- High School diploma, or equivalent combination of education and experience, with a strong character reference
- Post-secondary education in Early Childhood Education or related field is an asset
- Experience working with children and youth, including children with exceptionalities
- Proven success in planning/organizing games, sports, arts, crafts, cultural activities, and field trips
- 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
To Apply:
Please apply online at YMCA Careers by April 20th, 2026.
All successful candidates are required to provide:
- Criminal Record Check, Vulnerable Sector Check, and Child Abuse Registry Check (less than 6 months old), if 18 years of age or older
- Attend Child Safeguarding Training upon hire
- Valid First Aid and CPR Training
Background checks are reviewed on an individual basis – offenses, if any, are assessed in the context of the role and Child Safeguarding requirements and may not automatically eliminate candidates.
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 selves to work. 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.
If you require accommodation during the hiring process, please inform us in advance to arrange reasonable and appropriate accommodation.