Waterfront Team Lead

We are currently looking for a Waterfront Team Lead to join our team of committed professionals. This Full-time Contract position within the Association is housed at the YMCA of Northeastern Ontario's John Island Camp location near Spanish, Ontario.
Under the leadership of the Program Manager and Director of John Island Camp, the Waterfront Team Lead is responsible for all waterfront activities at camp. They plan, prepare, and lead programs in swimming, sailing, windsurfing, paddleboarding, canoeing, and kayaking, ensuring the safety and well-being of all staff and participants. The Waterfront Team Lead supervises waterfront staff, manages equipment and program resources, and works to provide a high-quality, engaging, and fun experience for all campers. 
 
START DATE: May 1, 2026
LOCATION: YMCA John Island Camp
RATE OF PAY: $18.00-$19.50
 
Major Responsibilities

Plan, prepare, and lead all waterfront activities, including swimming, sailing, windsurfing, paddleboarding, canoeing, and kayaking

Ensure the safety and well-being of all staff and participants in waterfront programs

Supervise waterfront staff and support their training and development

Manage waterfront equipment and program resources

Collaborate with the Program Manager to deliver high-quality, engaging, and fun experiences for all campers

Adhere to OCA, YMCA and John Island Camp policies, procedures, and guidelines

Other duties as assigned by the Association

Qualifications

Must be at least 18 years old

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

Experienced in lifeguarding and waterfront duties, with at least 250 hours of direct experience

Hold a current National Lifeguard (NL) certification (dated within two years of the start date)

Knowledgeable of applicable government regulations, OCA standards, and other guidelines governing waterfront operations

Experience planning, facilitating, and instructing waterfront programs in an overnight camp setting

Experience supervising staff in a waterfront environment and ensuring the safety of all participants

Skilled in risk management related to waterfront programs

Proficient in swimming, canoeing, and sea kayaking instruction

Knowledgeable in waterfront safety and emergency procedures, including rescue of capsized canoes and sea kayaks, and operation of a rescue boat

Ability to facilitate staff training sessions for all waterfront staff

Strong verbal and written communication skills

Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and time management skills

Current and satisfactory Police Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening

Benefits
As a charity and community-based organization, we know how important connection and wellness is, and we offer a workplace that invests in people. We provide: 

Free YMCA membership + 10% off family membership 
Paid personal/sick days 
Employee & Family Assistance Program with counselling, coaching, legal + financial supports 
Mileage reimbursement 
Team events + staff recognition 
Learning & development opportunities 
Explore different YMCA roles and career paths 

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 by April 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

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