Overview

The YMCA is a charity that has been helping Canadians improve their lives since the first Y opened in 1851. Y programs are offered at more than 1,700 locations across Canada and help more than 2.25 million people annually become healthier in spirit, mind, and body. The YMCA of the National Capital Region proudly serves people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities, and works to address critical social needs in our community. We are a leader and valued partner in creating a vibrant and healthy community where everyone belongs and can reach their full potential.

This position requires a commitment to the Y mission and core values of excellence, compassion, dignity, accountability and inclusion, which form the foundation of all Y programs and services.

Working for the Y

Are you looking to use your skills and unique gifts to make a real difference in your community? The YMCA of the National Capital Region is a great workplace committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, where different backgrounds, experiences, and identities are appreciated and celebrated. The YMCA provides hundreds of employees with meaningful jobs and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of individuals and the health of our communities. We recognize the contributions of our staff through innovative practices, great benefits, and growth opportunities. Whether you are starting out in your career or a seasoned professional, you will find many exciting opportunities to achieve your personal and career goals.

**Vacancy Status:**This job posting is for an existing vacancy beginning Spring 2026.

What do we offer?

At the Y, you will be part of a vibrant and diverse network of people whose shared vision is to change lives and make our communities home to the healthiest children, teens, adults, and families.

Our competitive wage and benefit package include:

• Free YMCA gym membership;
• Discounted Y program fees (including health & fitness programs, child care, and camps);
• Access to our YMCA Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) including free, immediate, confidential assistance and counselling for you and your family members for mental and physical health, and financial advice, among other 12 suites of services;
• Free daily camp bus transportation to and from camp facility is available upon request.

What do you offer?

The YMCA of the National Capital Region’s Outdoor Education and Leadership Centre offers outdoor education, adventure education and leadership programs to school, community and corporate groups. The Program Instructor will function as a team member responsible for the maintenance of high-quality programs for children and families by creating an educational, safe, clean and enjoyable environment for children. This person will be an active part of the outdoor education team and will be expected to contribute in all program areas at the outdoor education centre.

Some of the tasks of this position include:

• Delivering high quality program facilitation of camp programming.
• Participating in camp programming.
• Assisting in the set up and take down of program areas and equipment.
• Performing some housekeeping responsibilities – sanitation of equipment, cleaning program areas, etc.
• Providing behaviour management of participants.

What qualifications and abilities are we looking for?

At the YMCA of the National Capital Region, we strive to ensure our employees are a fit based on their strengths, interests, and future goals.

The successful candidate will have the following:

Education

• Post-secondary education in an outdoor-related discipline (environmental studies, outdoor recreation, etc.) or equivalent experience

Language

• Ability to work in English
• Bilingualism is an asset

Experience, Skills and Abilities

• Minimum of one season’s experience working in the outdoor education industry
• National Lifeguard Certification, Bronze Cross, Paddle Canada, ACCT Level I/II or other relevant certifications will be strongly considered as assets
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills
• Strong time-management and problem-solving skills

Additional Requirements

• Applicants must be 16 years old by Spring 2026.
• Applicants must have a current Standard First Aid and CPR "C" certification.
• Applicants must already have a valid permit to work in Canada.
• A Police Record check, not more than 6 months old is required. Police Records checks are reviewed on an individual basis and the offense(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.
• Semi-annually, staff must complete the mandatory training for the protection of Children & Youth and submit the certificate of completion.

Core Competencies:

• Excellence: Identifies and implements improvements that enhance work quality.
• Compassion: Involves warmth and supportive communication. Fosters understanding and collaboration, leading to a positive work environment.
• Dignity: Involves respecting every individual’s worth, promoting fairness and valuing perspectives. It encourages a culture of integrity, mutual respect, and empowerment.
• Accountability: Manages tasks, projects, and processes effectively.
• Inclusion: Demonstrates self-awareness and commitment to IDEA, ethics, and well-being.

About diversity and inclusiveness at the Y:

Inclusiveness is a part of our core values and we are committed to ensuring the diversity of the people and communities we serve and as well as our staff. We welcome candidates from racialized groups, invisible minorities, Indigenous People, women, persons with disabilities, persons who identify as 2SLGBTQ+.

YMCA of the National Capital Region is committed to accessibility in employment and to ensuring equal access to employment opportunities for candidates, including persons with disabilities. In compliance with AODA, the YMCA will endeavour to provide accommodation to people with disabilities in the recruitment process upon request. If you are selected for an interview and require accommodation due to a disability during the recruitment process, please email peopleandculture@ymcaottawa.ca upon scheduling your interview.

Statement on Use of Artificial Intelligence in Employment Decisions:

At the YMCA, we are committed to maintaining a fair and equitable hiring process. We do not use artificial intelligence (AI) to screen, assess, or select applicants for any positions of employment. All employment decisions are made by our dedicated People and Culture team, ensuring that each candidate is evaluated on an individual basis with the utmost consideration for their unique qualifications and experiences.

How to apply?

All internal applicants must inform their supervisor of their intention to apply for the position.

Thank you for your interest in joining the YMCA of the National Capital Region. We appreciate all applications. Due to the volume of applicants, we are only able to contact those selected for further consideration in the hiring process.

The YMCA of the National Capital Region is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer.