Program Coordinator, Summer Camp (Acting)

Program Coordinator, Summer Camp (Acting)
YMCA-YWCA Outdoor Centre – Camp Thunderbird

Classification: Seasonal Full Time (Term)
Placement: Late May – August 29, 2025
Wage Range: $216 – $237 per day

Nature and Scope:
YMCA-YWCA of Vancouver Island’s Outdoor Centre offers outdoor education and camping experiences for children, youth, and adults. The 800-acre property provides a unique opportunity to experience nature and engage in active programs in a wilderness setting. The cornerstone programs of Outdoor Education and Summer Camps (Camp Thunderbird overnight and day camps) benefit from site amenities that include archery ranges, a private lake with swimming and boating docks, extensive hiking trails, natural rock-climbing crags, low ropes course elements, and the capacity to accommodate over 200 people. Located near Sooke, there is access to remarkable sea kayaking, canoeing, and hiking areas across Vancouver Island. With a well-earned reputation as a provider of quality wilderness experiences, and recent investments in infrastructure, the Outdoor Centre is positioned to expand the scope of programs offered to the community.

The successful applicant will be a key member of the Branch leadership team. Working within a management team structure that provides support, supervision, and direction to 50+ front-line program staff and volunteers, this person will provide direct leadership to the Summer Camp programs and support the Outdoor Education programs. The current programming scope includes: leadership development; nature craft; team building; outdoor adventure; multi-day lake, and land-based out-trips; and experiential science and nature education. This position requires a self-starter who is motivated, organized, and capable of creating a positive sense of belonging for all participants and staff.

NOTE: The successful candidate will live on-site (accommodation is provided) throughout the term of the contract.

Responsibilities:

• Ensure operations adhere to YMCA Camping and BCCA accreditation standards in program and service delivery, in collaboration with the General Manager and Program Manager.
• Provide oversight and leadership in the development, implementation, and delivery of child/youth overnight and day camp programs.
• Support the recruitment, selection, and training of new employees/volunteers, offer continual coaching, and provide performance management feedback and support.
• Ensure compliance with Association and Camp policies and procedures including Child Protection.
• Build and maintain relationships with campers, parents, students, school officials and the public.
• Supervises effective health, safety, security and risk management policies and procedures (responsible for the safety of large groups of children/youth, adults, staff, and volunteers).
• Provide day-to-day leadership for the staff team as directed by the General Manager; provide direct program delivery as required.
• Serves as Duty Manager and performs other tasks as required.
• All staff assist with cleaning, maintenance and food services tasks as required.

Qualifications:

• Professional Experience – minimum of 3 years Camping experience in a leadership role; YMCAYWCA experience (or in a comparable camp operation) is preferred.
• Education – University degree in Education, Outdoor Recreation/Management, or a related field preferred; advanced outdoor leadership training is an asset (e.g., NOLS, COLT, OB).
• Demonstrated ability to effectively manage risk in a multi-faceted, complex environment – including operating in remote, isolated locations.
• Demonstrated knowledge related to healthy child and adolescent development.
• Strong communication skills including the ability to resolve challenging situations.
• Strong computer skills (MS Office software).
• WSBC Advanced First Aid (formerly called OFA Level 3) or equivalent certification is required (possess or willing and able to obtain).
• Class 4 BC Driver’s License, clean driver’s abstract & unrestricted use of a personal vehicle required.
• Clear Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector clearance is required.

Competencies:

• Commitment to Organization Vision and Values
• Commitment to Health and Safety
• Customer Service
• Teamwork
• Planning and Organization
• Communication
• Problem solving