Summer Camp Counsellor

City of Guelph; Guelph; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A municipal organization in Ontario seeks a Camp Counsellor to plan and deliver engaging programs for children ages 4-12. This seasonal position offers an opportunity to create a positive environment while ensuring safety and wellbeing. Candidates should have valid CPR and First Aid certifications and a passion for child development and recreation. Hours are full-time starting June 29, 2026, with a competitive pay rate of $18.14 per hour, and training will occur in June. Apply early as interviews will be scheduled starting mid-January 2026.

Benefits

Competitive pay

Paid training

Fun and inclusive work environment

Free uniform

Opportunities for career development

Chance to work in multiple areas of Recreation

Qualifications

• Interest in gaining further experience in child development and recreation.
• Valid CPR Level C and Standard First Aid required.
• Ability to work at various locations across the city.

Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver dynamic programs and activities for children.
• Work cooperatively with program staff and volunteers.
• Provide a safe and positive experience for campers.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Enthusiastic personality

Education

High school or post-secondary education in Child Development, Recreation or Social Services

Job description

Why Guelph

When you join the City of Guelph, you join a team of over 2000 employees who deliver services the community relies on every day. Together, we are bringing to life Guelph’s vision of an inclusive, connected, and prosperous city where we look after each other and our environment. As a single tier municipality, we offer a variety of occupations and career specialties within our organization. Guided by the goals and objectives of the Future Guelph: Strategic Plan and committed to the Corporate Values of integrity, service, inclusion, wellness and learning, the candidate will aid in the achievement of the Community Vision for an inclusive, connected, prosperous city.

The City of Guelph is looking for hardworking, creative & motivated individuals who enjoy working with children, creating and participating in recreational activities, and want to be part of a team to make summer fun for children and families in Guelph.

Reporting to the Recreation Coordinator, successful candidates will plan and deliver dynamic programs and activities for children of all abilities at City of Guelph Summer Camp programs.

Why join our team

• Competitive pay and paid training
• Fun and inclusive work environment
• Free uniform
• Opportunities for career development and growth
• Chance to work in and learn about multiple areas of Recreation
• Become a leader in our community

Position Overview

Plan and deliver dynamic programs and activities for children of all abilities from ages 4 to 12 while taking appropriate precautions to ensure safety, wellbeing, and a positive experience for all campers. Able to engage and participate in all activities (including swimming in up to chest deep water).

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Developing and delivering fun and dynamic program activities for children of all ages and abilities.
• Working cooperatively with program staff, volunteers and LITs to create a positive team environment.
• Providing an understanding, encouraging, safe and positive experience for each child.
• Assisting with all aspects of programming including planning, set up/take down, running programs, games, activities, active participation and evaluation.
• Working creatively and cooperatively to modify and adjust programming activities to ensure inclusive participation of all children.
• Communicating with parents/guardians regarding their camper’s daily activities and well-being.
• Acting as a positive role model for campers, program participants and other team members.
• Taking appropriate action to deal with incidents/accidents and emergencies, providing timely communication with Supervisors.
• Understanding the Summer Camp Guidelines and Procedures Manual and ensuring it is followed.
• Attending all required staff training sessions.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Currently attending or have completed high school or post-secondary education, with an interest in gaining further experience in Child Development, Recreation or a Social Services field
• Valid CPR Level C and Standard First Aid (or willing to obtain upon hiring), valid for employment duration
• Able to work at various locations across the city
• A satisfactory Police Record Check including Vulnerable Sector Check is required at time of offer
• Excellent interpersonal, communication and organizational skills
• Outgoing, enthusiastic and engaging personality
• Ability to provide a positive, respectful and enjoyable space for all individuals

Hours of Work

• Seasonal position, with training hours in June
• Full-time hours starting Wednesday June 29 – September 4, 2026
• Mon-Fri; between 8:15 a.m-5:15 p.m. (approx. 40-42 hours/week)

Pay/Salary

Camp Counsellor: $18.14 per hour

How to apply

Qualified applicants are invited to apply using our online application system. The posting will be open until all needed positions are filled. Recreation Programming has various Summer Camp positions available. Please apply for all positions of interest; candidates will only be considered for the positions they apply for.

Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Offers for interviews are scheduled to be sent out by January 16, 2026. Interview dates are scheduled for January 21, 22 and 24, 2026 (subject to change). Pending the need for additional staff, a second round of interviews will be scheduled for early February.

Please note all applicants must complete the online questionnaire specific to this position at the time they submit their resume and cover letter in order to be considered. Proof of qualifications will be requested at the interview stage.The City of Guelph is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity in the workplace. We are therefore happy to accommodate any individual needs in keeping with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. If you require an accommodation in order to participate in the hiring process, please contact us to make your needs known in advance.Personal information collected through the recruitment process will be used solely to determine eligibility for employment. We thank all candidates in advance; however, only those being considered for an interview will be contacted.