Wilderness Coordinator (Seasonal)

Default Brand; Griffin (GA); On-site; USD 20,000 - 21,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-site accommodation

Wellness membership

Professional development

Paid training

Job summary

YMCA-YWCA of Winnipeg invites applications for a Senior Wilderness Coordinator role overseeing Camp Stephens Wilderness programming and the In-Camp Trail experiences. You will lead a dynamic team, ensure safety, quality, and engaging youth experiences in a camp setting.

The role emphasizes staff development, program leadership, and collaboration with local communities to deliver impactful wilderness trips while maintaining high standards of care and compliance with applicable policies.

Qualifications

• Wilderness First Responder certification required.
• Experience in wilderness or youth programs preferred.
• Strong leadership and communications skills.
• Knowledge of safety policies and risk management.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and role modeling to staff and uphold YMCA values.
• Oversee wilderness programming including trips and safety protocols.
• Coordinate staff training and emergency response readiness.
• Maintain equipment, inventory, and trip logistics.

Skills

Leadership

Program management

Emergency response

Communication

Organizational skills

Education

Wilderness First Responder

Bronze Cross

WHMIS

PCOP

Camp Marine Module

Tools

MS Office

Database platforms

Job description

Description

Your Opportunity to SHINE ON:

At the YMCA-YWCA of Winnipeg, we believe that belonging is the heart of potential, and for more than 130 years, Camp Stephens—owned and operated by the YMCA-YWCA of Winnipeg—has brought this belief to life through exceptional overnight and wilderness canoe experiences on its island site in the heart of Lake of the Woods, Kenora, Ontario. Guided by The Y Way and our commitment to Shine On Experiences, Camp Stephens fosters a culture where safety, inclusion, growth, and community are embedded in everything we do.

As part of the Senior Staff team, this role oversees the administration and delivery of the Camp Stephens Wilderness Program, including the In-Camp Trail program. The individual leads and supports the Wilderness Team to ensure safe, engaging, and educational outdoor experiences. They are responsible for program excellence, staff coordination, and fostering an environment that aligns with Association’s values, helping participants build skills, confidence, and a connection to the natural world

WHY you’ll love Camp Stephens:

Working at Camp Stephens means being part of a values-driven, people-first culture grounded in inclusiveness, well-being, sustainability, and inspiration, where leaders model The Y Way and Shine On Experiences. You will have the opportunity to create meaningful community impact by leading wilderness programs that build confidence, resilience, and connection for children and youth, while being supported in an environment that values belonging, leadership growth, and professional development in a unique, mission-driven camp setting.

HOW you’ll create Moments that Matter:

Leadership

• Provide leadership and role modeling to all staff, promoting professionalism and Association's values.
• Lead and support staff training to ensure team readiness and skill development.
• Act as a key member of the Senior Staff Team, providing support during emergency situations.
• Oversee all aspects of Camp Stephens Wilderness programming, including whitewater and lake Canoe trips.
• Deliver oral and written feedback to staff, fostering continuous improvement

Program Operations

• Ensure policies and procedures regarding safety are understood and practiced by the Wilderness
• Guarantee that all Camp Stephens activities are engaging, safe, and aligned with the Association’s Strategic Plan.
• Ensure all Wilderness trips implement risk management systems aligned with camping industry best practices.
• Work collaboratively with local communities and partners to build positive relationships and support the successful delivery of wilderness programs and trips.
• Teach Depot slots as required, enhancing staff and camper preparation for trips.
• Work collaborative with the other Wilderness Coordinator in delivering In-Camp Trail experiences effectively.

Administrative

• Maintain inventory and food orders to support the trail program's operations.
• Track environmental patterns of Wilderness out-trip locations and report findings to the Camp Director.
• Manage the budget for Wilderness program areas, collaborating with the Camp Director to ensure financial accountability.
• Maintain tripping equipment, ensuring it is properly used, regularly maintained, and in good condition.
• Submit an end-of-season written report with observations, recommendations, and inventory details for future program improvement

You’ll bring:

Education / Certifications / Credentials

• Required Certifications:
  • Wilderness First Responder
  • Bronze Cross
  • Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS)
• Assets:
  • Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOP) Training
  • Camp Marine Module Training Course
• Mandatory YMCA-YWCA of Winnipeg Trainings:
  • Ontario H&S
  • Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)
  • GHS (Globally Harmonized System)
  • Respectful Workplace
  • Safeguarding Children and Youth
• Screening Requirements:
  • Police Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search
  • Child Abuse Registry Check
• Other Requirements:
  • Valid Manitoba Class 5F Driver’s License
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and database platforms

Experience

• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Proven experience in program management, preferably in a community or youth-focused environment.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a diverse team.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Comprehensive understanding of Child Protection Policy and Protocols, including The Child and Family Services Act.
• Familiarity with Ontario Employment Standards, Workplace Safety & Health Act, and Manitoba Camping Association Accreditation Guidelines.
• Strong interpersonal skills to engage with campers, staff, and community stakeholders, fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment.
• Advanced organizational and time management skills to coordinate multiple programs and activities simultaneously.
• Ability to respond effectively in emergency situations and maintain composure under pressure.

How Y Winnipeg Supports Your Impact:

• Compensation: Daily Wage - $150.05
• Professional Development: paid training & certification opportunities. If applicant who does not have required certifications are still encourage to apply.
• On-site Accommodation: includes board and lodging
• Wellness: complimentary Y membership and Employee Assistance Program

How Y Winnipeg Supports Your Impact:

AI Disclosure: Our recruitment process incorporates AI technology for initial application screening to assist with assessing qualifications. All applications are also reviewed by our hiring team to ensure a fair and accurate assessment.

Equity & Inclusion: Canadian experience is not required. We value diversity and welcome applicants with international education and work experience. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences and are committed to an inclusive and accessible recruitment process.