Outdoor Centre Program Instructor

Outdoor Centre Program Instructor - Winter

Location: YMCA Wanakita, 1883 Koshlong Lake Road, Haliburton ON, K0M 1S0

Position Type: Seasonal Contract, Possibility of Extension

Rate of Pay: $170/day

Position Grade: Grade 2

Placement Dates: December 27th, 2026 – March 12th, 2027; In-Person, Paid Mandatory on-site training from December 16th to 18th, 2026

Number of Vacancies: 13

Position Description:
We believe that it is through the power of our amazing people that #YSavesLives. By joining the YMCA Wanakita team, you will contribute to making our Y the best place to work.

The Outdoor Centre Program Instructor is a contract position responsible for delivering and facilitating recreational and educational programs throughout the season. The instructor is primarily responsible for programming (cross-country skiing, high ropes, initiatives, snowshoeing, fire building, broomball, etc.), providing exceptional customer service, and assisting with site support. The Program Instructor will report directly to the Outdoor Centre Assistant Director under the supervision of the Outdoor Centre Director.

This is an excellent opportunity for a dedicated Program Instructor with a passion for mentorship and program development to make a lasting impact. With strong relationship-building and communication skills, the Program Instructor will help foster a supportive team environment that will contribute to making the YMCA of Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford an outstanding place to work. Come join our team and enter a workplace full of new opportunities and experiences!

What You’ll Do:

• Facilitate programs for school, adults, family and other special interest groups during weekdays, weekends and holidays.
• Act as a liaison with teachers, group leaders and other small staff teams.
• Provide site support including set-up of all program areas and maintenance of trails and program equipment as well as assisting the site service staff in general site maintenance in and around the YMCA Wanakita Outdoor Centre.
• Maintain continuity and quality in programs by working co-operatively with all groups and other Wanakita staff.

What You’ll Bring:

• Minimum certification is Standard First Aid with CPR-C.
• Experience in camp, outdoor education/recreation/instructional field.
• CANSI Nordic Ski Instructor certification is considered an asset.
• Challenge Course Practitioner Certificate from and ACCT accredited trainer is considered an asset.
• Current (within 6 months of contract start date) vulnerable sector check (VSC) is a condition of employment.

Room & Board:
Housing is available on site during the contract period. Wanakita’s Room and Board rate is $85.25 per week inclusive of single-room accommodation and meals. Living on site is not mandatory, however, the incumbent must be readily available and present during assigned shifts.

This position requires commitment to the YMCA HBB mission and core values of: Inclusion, Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility, as well as a commitment to building developmental assets in children and adults.

Our Commitment to Safeguarding Children and Youth

All offers of employment will be subject to the provision that the successful incumbent provides YMCA Hamilton | Burlington | Brantford with a current and satisfactory Police Records Check. Positions responsible for the direct supervision of children and/or vulnerable persons will be required, in addition to a Police Records Check, to provide a Vulnerable Sector Screening Report at the time of hire. Police Records Checks are reviewed on an individual basis, and the offence(s), if any, is considered in the decision-making process in relation to the requirement of working with children; therefore, not eliminating all candidates with a record from being offered a position.

Ready to Make a Difference?
This is your chance to play a critical role in shaping a thriving, inclusive workplace where employees feel supported and empowered. If you’re passionate about people and excited to lead impactful initiatives, we want to hear from you!

Interested in applying?
Please submit your resume as soon as possible but otherwise by: November 13, 2026, attention: Sandra Dabrowski, Outdoor Centre Director at [email protected]

We thank all applicants, however, only those considered for an interview will be contacted.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Disclosure

Artificial intelligence ("AI") may be used to support the screening, assessment, or selection of applicants for this position. All hiring decisions involve human review.

Job Types: Full-time, Seasonal

Pay: $170.00 per day

Work Location: In person