Leadership Counsellor

YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth; Dartmouth; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking organization as a Leadership Counsellor at a vibrant summer camp. This role is perfect for those passionate about nurturing youth and fostering community. You'll be responsible for guiding young leaders through exciting outdoor adventures, ensuring their safety and development. With a focus on teamwork and leadership skills, you'll help shape the future of campers while enjoying the great outdoors. If you thrive in a dynamic environment and are eager to make a difference, this opportunity is your chance to shine!

Benefits

Discounts on courses

Team-building activities

Outdoor living experience

Qualifications

• Must be 19 years old for Leadership 1, 20 for Leadership 2.
• Experience in summer camp or similar settings is essential.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and implement the two-year Leadership Program.
• Ensure safety and fun while delegating tasks to participants.

Skills

Leadership Skills

Canoeing Experience

Wilderness Camping

Navigation Skills

Team Management

Communication Skills

Education

NLS Certification

Standard First Aid and CPR C

Wilderness First Aid

Paddle Canada Certification

Tools

Mental Health First Aid

Outdoor Council of Canada Certification

Interpretive Guides Association Certification

Job description

Title:

Leadership Counsellor

Position Status:

Full-Time, Seasonal

Vacancies:

8

Salary:

$650+ per week

Start Date:

June 2025

Location:

Big Cove Camp, Thorburn, NS

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

There are many places to work, but few opportunities to do work that truly matters. When you join our team, you don’t just get a job – you embark on an exciting career path. You will be part of a team that fosters a sense of belonging for children, youth, and adults of all ages in their community.

The Opportunity

Leadership counsellors play a vital role at Big Cove, directly involved in training future staff. They must possess strong leadership skills, be capable of working independently and as part of a team, and delegate tasks to participants while ensuring safety and fun. Leadership counsellors live in tipis in our leadership village, away from the main camp area, with a co-leader and eight campers. Please note that this role requires on-site presence for the entire summer camp.

Leadership 1 Counsellor

This position involves coordinating and implementing the first year of Big Cove YMCA Camp’s two-year Leadership Program, a four-week program for youth aged 15-16 focusing on mechanical skill development through multi-day canoe trips and instruction in all camp program areas. Applicants should have extensive leadership experience in canoeing and wilderness camping, navigation skills, and experience in a residential camp setting.

Qualifications & Skills

• Must be 19 years of age by December 31, 2025
• At least two years of experience working at a summer camp or related setting
• Minimum qualifications include: NLS, Standard First Aid and CPR C, WHIMIS, Wilderness First Aid, Paddle Canada Certification, Mental Health First Aid
• Recommended qualifications include: Outdoor Council of Canada, Interpretive Guides Association, Wilderness Advanced First Aid
• Start Date: Spring session April 27 (preferred); Summer session June 22
• Strong work ethic
• Positive, team-oriented attitude
• Good judgment
• Patience with children and an interest in their growth and development

Leadership 2 Counsellor

This role involves coordinating and implementing the second year of the Leadership Program, a four-week course training youth aged 16-17 in group management skills, including communication, counseling, and team building. Participants spend ten days on trips and seven days in cabins as a cabin shadow (CIT). Applicants need organization, facilitation skills, and experience working with teens in a residential camp setting, with strong programming and planning abilities. Extensive leadership experience in canoeing and wilderness camping, along with navigational skills, is required.

Qualifications & Skills

• Must be 20 years of age by December 31, 2025
• At least three years of experience working at a summer camp or similar setting
• Minimum qualifications: Standard First Aid, NLS, CPR C, WHIMIS, Wilderness First Aid, Paddle Canada Certification, Mental Health First Aid
• Recommended qualifications: Outdoor Council of Canada, Interpretive Guides Association, Class 4 Driver’s License
• Start Date: Spring session April 27 (preferred); Summer session June 22
• Strong work ethic
• Positive, team-oriented attitude
• Good judgment
• Patience with children and an interest in their growth and development

All staff may be assigned to lead different programs depending on program needs and group makeup. Staff may also be eligible for discounts on certain courses (Wilderness First Aid, Paddle Canada, ACCT Level 1).

Candidates must provide a current Criminal Record Check (18+), Vulnerable Sector Check (18+), Child Abuse Registry Check, and valid Standard First Aid and CPR-C. All employees must attend YMCA Child Protection Training.

Apply Today

Apply online at https://ymcahfx.ca/workwithus/.

We look forward to hearing from you!

The YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. If you require accommodations during the hiring process, please inform us in advance. Applicants are encouraged to self-identify.