Camp Counsellor

Title: Camp Counsellor

Location: Big Cove Camp, Thorburn, NS

Position Status: Full-Time Temporary

Start Date: June 2026

Compensation: $600+ per week

Vacancies: 5

About the role Camp Counsellors live with and take care of a cabin of 8-10 campers and work alongside a co‑counsellor. They are directly responsible for the care and supervision of their campers, providing each camper with a positive camping experience. Counsellors instruct cabin programs as well as interest group programs which include swimming, canoeing, drama, archery, high ropes and many more. This position requires strong leadership and independence, teamwork, a caring nature and a willingness to have fun. Throughout the summer, counsellors may have the opportunity to have Leadership shadows, take part in a maintenance or kitchen rotation, or be a leader in the 8‑week leadership program.

Responsibilities Camper Care & Supervision

Live in‑cabin with 8–10 campers alongside a co‑counsellor.

Ensure the physical, emotional, and social wellbeing of campers at all times.

Provide guidance, support, and role modelling for campers, promoting a positive and inclusive environment.

Implement cabin programmes and routines to support camper engagement, emotional regulation, and personal growth.

Program Delivery

Lead and instruct cabin‑based programmes and interest groups, including swimming, canoeing, drama, archery, high ropes, and other activities.

Facilitate engaging, safe, and developmentally appropriate programming for all campers.

Staff Collaboration & Leadership

Work collaboratively with co‑counsellors, Section Directors, and Leadership staff to maintain cabin culture and camper wellbeing.

Participate in staff training, mentorship, and team‑building exercises.

Camp Operations Support

Assist with kitchen duties, including dishes and meal cleanup.

Support facility maintenance, including cleaning shared spaces and programme areas.

Participate in groundskeeping, outdoor tidying, and general camp upkeep.

Assist with trail and campsite maintenance to ensure safe and accessible programme spaces.

Safety & Emergency Responsibilities

Follow YMCA Child Protection policies, health, and safety standards at all times.

Respond appropriately to camper concerns, conflicts, or emergencies, seeking support from Section Directors or the Emergency Response Team as needed.

Participate in emergency response procedures and drills as required.

Communication & Documentation

Maintain clear communication with Section Directors and other staff regarding camper needs, behaviour, and programme participation.

Document incidents, camper concerns, and programme notes as required.

Education and Skills Qualifications Key Competencies

Must be 17 years of age by December 31, 2026.

Strong work ethic.

Positive team‑oriented attitude.

Good judgment.

Patience with children and an interest in their growth and development.

Minimum qualifications

Standard First Aid and CPR‑C.

Bronze Cross.

WHIMIS.

Recommended qualifications

NLS.

Wilderness First Aid.

Outdoor Council of Canada.

Paddle Canada Certification.

Application Requirements

A Criminal Record Check, Vulnerable Sector Check, and Child Abuse Register Check (less than 6 months old), if 18 years of age or older.

A valid First Aid and CPR Training.

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

Equal Opportunity Employer 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 believe that a variety of perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences enrich our organization, enabling us to better serve our community and achieve our mission. As an equal opportunity employer, we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including Black, Indigenous, People of Colour, racially diverse, 2SLGBTQI individuals, gender‑diverse people, people with diverse abilities, members of ethnic minorities and faith groups, foreign‑born residents, and veterans.

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