Counselling Team Lead

We are currently looking forCounselling Team Lead to join our team of committed professionals. ThisFull-time Contract position within the Association is housed at the YMCA of Northeastern Ontario’sJohn Island Camp location nearSpanish, ON.

Under the leadership of the Camper Care Manager and the Director of John Island Camp, the Counselling Team Lead is responsible for supporting program planning and delivery to ensure a high-quality camper experience. The role includes overseeing and supporting counsellors, as well as developing, implementing, and coordinating programs with a camper-focused approach. The ideal candidate is dynamic, able to work collaboratively as part of a progressive team, enjoys working with children, and can manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.

START DATE:May 1, 2026

LOCATION:YMCA John Island Camp

RATE OF PAY:$18.00-$19.50

Major Responsibilities

• Oversee, and support all camp programming, including evening programs, themed days, and special activities

• Assist the Camper Care Manager with camper check-ins

• Support counsellors in planning and delivering their programs

• Address camper concerns and provide in-cabin support as needed

• Build positive relationships and serve as a role model for campers and staff

• Train, manage, evaluate, and support counsellors to ensure high-quality program delivery

• Coordinate and schedule counsellors, and participate in programming as needed

• Provide constructive feedback and performance evaluations to counsellors

• Perform other duties as assigned by the Association

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old

• Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) considered an asset. 

• Minimum of 2 years’ experience working at summer camps or outdoor centres

• Experience supervising staff in a camp setting

• Current Standard First Aid and CPR-C certification is required

• Current Wilderness First Aid is considered an asset

• Knowledgeable in camp practices, program planning, and risk management considerations

• Experience planning, facilitating, and delivering programs in an overnight camp setting

• Skilled in mentoring, coaching, and supporting counsellors

• Strong verbal and written communication skills

• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and time management skills

• Bilingualism (English and French) considered an asset

• Current and satisfactory Police Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening

HOW TO APPLY

If you would like to work in a family friendly environment, please apply, by website only, with a cover letter and resume byApril 30, 2026 to the attention of the Hiring Manager. 

CAMP EQUITABLE EMPLOYMENT FUND

The Camp Equitable Employment Fund (CEEF) is a grant created to reduce barriers to camp employment for individuals who have been historically marginalized and underrepresented in the camping industry.

The fund is open to Canadians, ages 18 to 25, who are a part of a BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Colour) communities. Ideal candidates will have previous experience, or a demonstrated interest, in working with youth. Camp-specific experience is not required.

Successful applicants will receive financial assistance to offset the personal expenses of working in the outdoor industry. This could include: certification courses, personal gear, equipment and travel costs.

Fund Application Process:

Apply for a position at YMCA John Island Camp and complete the interview process.
Submit the CEEF Application Form (on the Employment Opportunities page of our website)
Receive your offer of employment, based on successful interview and reference checks.
Receive notice of any awarded funds before the need to respond to your offer of employment.

Funding will be awarded to successful applicants across Canada in the order received and based upon available funding. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply for funding as soon as possible after applying for employment at camp.

If you have any questions about the Camp Equitable Employment Fund, please contact johnislandcamp@ymcaneo.ca