Camper Care Specialist - Neighbourhood Day Camps (Seasonal)

YMCA of the National Capital Region; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A community-focused organization in Ottawa is seeking a Camper Care Specialist to supervise and deliver quality camp programs for children aged 4 to 12. The ideal candidate will have at least 4 years of experience in camping, particularly with children with special needs, and the ability to create a safe, inclusive environment where children can grow and have fun. This position also involves supporting staff training and actively engaging with participants. Competitive compensation and benefits include a free YMCA gym membership and discounted program fees.

Benefits

Free YMCA gym membership

Discounted Y program fees

Qualifications

• Minimum 4 years' experience in camping and outdoor education.
• At least 2 years' supervisory experience in camping and outdoor education.
• Experience working with children with special needs is required.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and implement quality recreational programs for children aged 4 to 12.
• Support inclusion counsellors and provide them with necessary tools.
• Ensure a positive experience for children with particular needs.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Conflict resolution

Relationship-building skills

Job description

Job Details

Description

The YMCA is a charity that has been helping Canadians improve their lives since the first Y opened in 1851. Y programs are offered at more than 1,700 locations across Canada and help more than 2.25 million people annually become healthier in spirit, mind, and body. The YMCA of the National Capital Region proudly serves people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities, and works to address critical social needs in our community. We are a leader and valued partner in creating a vibrant and healthy community where everyone belongs and can reach their full potential.

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.

Vacancy Status

This job posting is for a vacancy beginning June 2026.

What do 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 Include

• Free YMCA gym membership;
• Discounted Y program fees (including health & fitness programs, child care, and camps).

What do you offer?

Reporting to the Assistant Coordinator – Y NDC, the Camper Care Specialist – Y Neighbourhood Day Camps (Y NDC) supervises and implements the delivery of quality recreational programs, services and experiences to children and youth aged 4 to 12 enrolled in Camp programs. The Camper Care Specialist – Y NDC supervises inclusion counsellors, provides them with tools to create a meaningful camp experience for all participants as they engage in summer camp activities, discover nature and enjoy the natural environment, build self-confidence and establish lasting friendships.

Some Of The Tasks Of This Position Include

• Ensuring that children with particular needs have a positive experience leading to personal growth through fun and rewarding programs.
• Being responsible for supporting the training of staff and providing them with tools to be successful in their role.
• Actively engaging in sports and play with program participants.
• Creating an atmosphere of safety, belonging and positive development.
• Performing some housekeeping responsibilities, like sanitation of equipment, cleaning program areas, etc.

Language

• Ability to work in English
• Bilingualism is an asset

Experience, Skills And Abilities

• Minimum 4 years' experience working in camping and outdoor education, and minimum 2 years' supervisory experience in camping and outdoor education
• Minimum 2 years’ experience working with children with special needs, such as behavioural, cognitive, or physical
• Experience working in a camp setting is considered an asset
• Well-developed interpersonal, conflict resolution and relationship-building skills

Additional Requirements

• Applicants must be 18 years old by June 2026.
• Applicants must have a current Standard First Aid and CPR "C" certification.
• Applicants must already have a valid permit to work in Canada.
• A Police Record check, not more than 6 months old is required. Police Records checks are reviewed on an individual basis and the offense(s) - if any - is considered in the decision‑making process in relation to the requirement of working with children, therefore not eliminating all candidates with a record from being offered a position.
• Semi-annually, staff must complete the mandatory training for the protection of Children & Youth and submit the certificate of completion.

Core Competencies

• Excellence: Identifies and implements improvements that enhance work quality.
• Compassion: Involves warmth and supportive communication. Fosters understanding and collaboration, leading to a positive work environment.
• Dignity: Involves respecting every individual’s worth, promoting fairness and valuing perspectives. It encourages a culture of integrity, mutual respect, and empowerment.
• Accountability: Manages tasks, projects, and processes effectively.
• Inclusion: Demonstrates self‑awareness and commitment to IDEA, ethics, and well‑being.

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+.

YMCA of the National Capital Region is committed to accessibility in employment and to ensuring equal access to employment opportunities for candidates, including persons with disabilities. In compliance with AODA, the YMCA will endeavour to provide accommodation to people with disabilities in the recruitment process upon request. If you are selected for an interview and require accommodation due to a disability during the recruitment process, please email [e-mail] upon scheduling your interview.

Statement On Use Of Artificial Intelligence In Employment Decisions

At the YMCA, we are committed to maintaining a fair and equitable hiring process. We do not use artificial intelligence (AI) to screen, assess, or select applicants for any positions of employment. All employment decisions are made by our dedicated People and Culture team, ensuring that each candidate is evaluated on an individual basis with the utmost consideration for their unique qualifications and experiences.

How to apply?

All internal applicants must inform their supervisor of their intention to apply for the position.

Thank you for your interest in joining the YMCA of the National Capital Region. We appreciate all applications. Due to the volume of applicants, we are only able to contact those selected for further consideration in the hiring process.

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