Program Instructor, Camping and Outdoor Education (Bonnenfant Y Outdoor Centre)

Overview:

As one of the largest charitable community service organizations in Canada, the YMCA of the National Capital Region responds to critical social needs in the community and works to provide lasting solutions. Serving thousands of people across our region annually, we are a leader and valued partner in creating a vibrant and healthy community where everyone belongs and can reach their full potential. This position requires a commitment to the Y mission and core values of responsibility, honesty, caring, respect, and inclusion, which form the foundation of all Y programs and services.

Working for the Y

Are you looking to use your skills and unique gifts to make a real difference in your community? The YMCA of the National Capital Region is a great workplace committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, where different backgrounds, experiences, and identities are appreciated and celebrated. The YMCA provides hundreds of employees with meaningful jobs and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of individuals and the health of our communities. We recognize the contributions of our staff through innovative practices, great benefits, and growth opportunities. Whether you are starting out in your career or a seasoned professional, you will find many exciting opportunities to achieve your personal and career goals. Some of the benefits of working for the Y include:

What we offer

At the Y, you will be part of a vibrant and diverse network of people whose shared vision is to change lives and make our communities home to the healthiest children, teens, adults and families. Our competitive wage and benefit package includes:

• Free Y membership.
• Access to an Employee Assistance Program

What you offer?

The Program Instructor will function as a team member responsible for the maintenance of high-quality programs for children and families by creating an educational, safe, clean and enjoyable environment for children.  This person will be an active part of the outdoor education team and will be expected to contribute in all program areas at the outdoor education centre.

The Program Instructor is accountable to the Coordinator of Outdoor Education for the safe supervision of the children in accordance with program policies and philosophy.  The Program Instructor must be courteous and professional in dealing with teachers, students and all members and the general public.  Program Instructor is a role model to staff, children and customers, and must exemplify YMCA values, and maintain a high standard of work ethic.

Some of the tasks of this position include:

• Give first priority to the camper’s needs
• Deliver high quality program facilitation of boating activities, high ropes, or specialty camps
• Perform some housekeeping responsibilities – sanitation of equipment, cleaning program areas, etc.

• Assist in set up and take down of program areas and equipment
• Provide behavior management of campers
• Report directly to your Coordinator of Outdoor Education

What qualifications and abilities are we looking for?

At YMCA of the National Capital Region, we strive to ensure our employees are a fit based on their strengths, interests, and future goals.

The successful candidate will have the following:

Language

• Ability to work in English
• Bilingualism an asset

Education

• Formal post-secondary education in an Outdoor related discipline (environmental studies, outdoor recreation, Outdoor Adventure etc.) or equivalent experience.

Experience, Skills, and Abilities

• National Lifeguard Certification, Bronze Cross, Paddle Canada, ACCT or other relevant certifications will all be strongly considered as assets for this position
• Current Standard First Aid & CPR “C” certification and Clear Criminal Reference Check for Vulnerable Sector
• Minimum of one season’s experience working in the outdoor education industry
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills
• Be self-motivating, enthusiastic and a responsible individual with strong leadership skills committed to the healthy development of children
• Ability to work in a team setting

Additional Requirements:

• Applicants must already have a valid permit to work in Canada.
• Criminal Reference Check for the Vulnerable Sector, not more than 6 months old is required 
• Annually all staff must complete the mandatory training for the Protecting Children, Youth, and Vulnerable Persons, and submit the certificate of completion.

Core Competencies:

• COMMUNICATION:  Communicates in a thorough, clear and timely manner and supports information sharing and goal achievement across the Association.
• INTEGRITY: Demonstrates responsible behaviour at all times and maintains high ethical standards.
• TEAMWORK: Participates actively in a team for organizational effectiveness.  Create an atmosphere of trust amongst all team members.
• CONCERN FOR HEALTH AND SAFETY: Acknowledges and understands how to manage and educate others of risk and harm reduction.
• SERVICE ORIENTATION: Focusing one’s efforts on discovering and meeting the clients’ needs. It implies a desire to help or serve others, to meet their needs. 
• RISK MANAGEMENT:  Ability to apply knowledge and skills to identify potential risks in advance, analyze them and take precautionary steps to reduce/curb the risk. 
• LEADERSHIP: Taking a role as leader of a team or other group. It implies a desire to lead others using soft power and interpersonal skills.

About diversity and inclusiveness at the Y: 

Inclusiveness is a part of our core values and we are committed to ensuring the diversity of the people and communities we serve and as well as our staff. We welcome candidates from racialized groups, invisible minorities, Indigenous People, women, persons with disabilities, persons who identify as 2SLGBTQ+.

How to apply?

All internal applicants must inform their supervisor of their intention to apply for the position.  Internal applicants can apply only after completing the probationary period of their current job, unless approved by People and Culture.

Applications must be submitted to the YMCA of the National Capital Region, and all cover letters should be addressed to Marisa Yeomans. Please send applications to Acting Camp Program Supervisor, Marisa Yeomans (marisa.yeomans@ymcaywca.ca)

Thank you for your interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

The YMCA of the National Capital Region is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Please advise in advance if you require any accommodation during this process. We believe all people have the right to live free from discrimination or harassment of any kind.

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