Outdoor Center Program Specialist

YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth; Thorburn; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A community-focused organization in Thorburn, Nova Scotia, is seeking a program facilitator for the Outdoor Centre. This role includes delivering quality outdoor programs, ensuring safety, and supporting visiting groups. Candidates must hold certifications in first aid and CPR-C, and a Bronze Cross WHIMIS. This position fosters an inclusive environment and encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.

Qualifications

• Standard first aid and CPR-C certification required.
• Bronze Cross WHIMIS certification required.

Responsibilities

• Deliver high‑quality Outdoor Centre programs to groups.
• Assist with coordinating Outdoor Centre seasons.
• Maintain high standards of safety in all activities.
• Welcome and support visiting groups during their stay.
• Collaborate to maintain a supportive workplace culture.
• Assist with kitchen duties and facility maintenance.

Skills

Standard first aid and CPR-C

Bronze Cross WHIMIS

Job description

About the role

During the spring and fall, Big Cove YMCA Camp operates an Outdoor Centre that runs pre‑programmed and custom programs for a wide range of school groups, university groups, clubs and organizations.

In this role, you will

• Program Delivery & Facilitation — Deliver high‑quality Outdoor Centre programs to school groups, universities, clubs and other visiting organizations. Teach and lead all program areas of the Outdoor Centre, ensuring safe, engaging and age‑appropriate instruction.
• Program Coordination — Assist with coordinating spring and fall Outdoor Centre seasons, including scheduling, planning and staff support.
• Risk Management & Safety — Maintain a high standard of safety in all activities, following YMCA policies and Outdoor Centre procedures.
• Customer Service & Group Support — Welcome and support visiting groups, ensuring their needs are met throughout their stay.
• Teamwork & Professionalism — Work collaboratively with other staff to maintain a supportive, inclusive workplace culture.
• Additional Responsibilities — Assist with kitchen duties, support facility maintenance and participate in groundskeeping tasks.

Education and skills qualifications:

Required

• Standard first aid and CPR-C
• Bronze Cross WHIMIS

Recommended qualifications

• NLS Wilderness First Aid
• Food Handlers Certificate Class 4
• Driver’s License
• Canadian Boating License

To apply:

Please clearly indicate on your application form that you are applying for spring and/or fall at Big Cove YMCA Outdoor Centre.

Background checks: All successful candidates are required to provide a Criminal Record Check, Vulnerable Sector Check and Child Abuse Register Check (less than 6 months old) if 18 years of age or older, plus a valid First Aid and CPR training certificate.

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 self to work. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including Indigenous peoples, Black, People of Colour, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, people with diverse abilities, members of ethnic minorities, foreign‑born residents and veterans.

If you require accommodation during the hiring process, please inform us in advance to arrange reasonable and appropriate accommodation.