Canada Summer Jobs: Youth Recreation and Leisure Services Program Coordinator

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.

What We Offer

As part of your total compensation:

• 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

About the Role

The Youth Recreation and Leisure Services Program Coordinator is a key role within the YMCA, responsible for supporting the Child & Youth team with planning, organizing, supporting, and implementing recreational activities and programs for youth (<18 years old).

The coordinator plays a major role in ensuring all youth recreational activity bookings are appropriately scheduled, instructors and volunteers follow YMCA protocol, youth are checked into programs, and programs run safely and effectively.

This position requires a passion for youth development, a strong interest in sports and recreation, strong organizational skills, and a commitment to the YMCA’s core values and mission.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure the smooth operation of youth recreation programs (registered and drop-in)
• Maintain high levels of YMCA member satisfaction, attendance, waitlist management, and retention
• Ensure program schedules are accurate, accessible, and updated well in advance of registration
• Support recruitment and onboarding of instructors and volunteers
• Model and champion The Y Way behavioral standards
• Ensure all child safeguarding and certification requirements are current
• Lead programs (if certified)
• Respond to member questions and concerns professionally and promptly
• Maintain cleanliness and safety of gymnasium spaces, storage areas, and equipment
• Follow all health, safety, and regulatory requirements
• Develop marketing materials (posters, flyers, social media) to promote programs
• Enhance member engagement through communication and outreach
• Support data collection and analysis for program attendance

Member Service Expectations:

• Greet members within 5 feet; acknowledge within 10 feet
• Assist members proactively, especially those needing guidance or support
• Maintain welcoming, inclusive, and supportive interactions

Facility & Cleanliness Responsibilities:

• Ensure spaces remain clean, organized, and safe
• Return equipment to proper storage after use
• Address or report cleaning and maintenance issues promptly
• Maintain daily cleaning routines and checklists
• Build strong member relationships and ensure safe, respectful use of facilities

Education & Qualifications

• High School Diploma required
• Post-secondary education in Kinesiology, Physical Education, Recreation Management, Psychology, or related field (asset)
• 1–3 years of supervisory experience in recreation
• Experience in youth development, coaching, or fitness instruction (asset)
• Availability for evenings and weekends (Sun–Thurs or Tues–Sat schedules)
• Passion for health, recreation, and helping others
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills
• Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office and Canva (or similar tools)
• Excellent organizational, communication, and attention to detail skills

How to Apply

Please apply online by May 24, 2026:
https://ymcahfx.ca/workwithus/

Additional Requirements

Successful candidates must provide:

• Criminal Record Check, Vulnerable Sector Check, and Child Abuse Register Check (within 6 months)
• Valid Intermediate Workplace First Aid and CPR-C certification

Background checks are assessed individually and may not disqualify candidates based on role requirements.

Equity & Inclusion

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 individuals, 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 appropriate support.