The City of Markham is consistently ranked among Canada’s top municipal employers. In 2026, the City received its sixth consecutive Canada’s Best Employers recognition from Forbes and Statista Inc., placing third among municipalities and 15th overall in Government Services. An award winning municipality, Markham is recognized for its leadership in sustainability, innovative urban planning, and strong fiscal management. Serving a diverse and growing community of more than 370,000 residents, Markham combines rich heritage with a vibrant local economy and offers employees the opportunity to contribute to meaningful, impactful work that helps strengthen the community we serve.

Applications are now being accepted for Nature Specialists - Eco Camp @ Chimo in the Recreation Services Department, Community Services Commission. To apply for this position, please submit your resume and cover letter online by March 31 , 2026. Job Description: The Nature Specialist plays a key role in the delivery of the City of Markham’s Summer Camps by designing and leading nature focused, outdoor learning experiences for campers. The role includes program planning, activity facilitation, safety supervision, and general camp administration. The Nature Specialist typically works with groups of 6–10 campers and provides guidance and mentorship to counsellors, junior staff, and volunteers.

Through engaging and developmentally appropriate outdoor programming, the Nature Specialist helps children build environmental awareness, develop new skills, gain confidence, make friends, and enjoy meaningful time in nature. The Specialist is responsible for camper safety, inclusion, and wellbeing always under the direction of the Camp Supervisor.

Location: Eco Camp @ Chimo (Outdoor Camp) Work Period: 35 hrs/ week | 22 June, 2026 till end of August 2026 (100% in person) Job Tasks:

• Program Delivery & Camper Engagement

• Lead dailynaturebasedprogramming, including nature walks, ecological exploration, environmental games, outdoor skills, and handson learning activities.

• Adapt activities to support a wide range of camper needs related to safety, ability level,behaviour, weather, and accessibility.

• Provide inwater supervision during designated swim periods.

• Maintain active supervision and ensure accurate headcounts and camper whereabouts at all times.

• Program Planning & Safety

• Develop and prepare lesson plans and activity outlines in coordination with the Camp Supervisor.

• Evaluate natural areas for safety considerations (e.g., terrain, weather, wildlife) and take proactive steps to manage risks.

• Prepare, organize, andmaintainmaterials, equipment, and supplies fornature basedactivities; report any shortages or maintenance needs.

• Staff & Volunteer Support

• Coach and mentor counsellors, junior staff, and volunteers to deliver safe, engaging nature programming.

• Promote collaborative teamwork and positive communication within the camp team.

• Supportbehaviourguidance using developmentallyappropriateand inclusive approaches.

• Communication & Administration

• Maintainaccuratedaily attendance and report absences promptly.

• Communicate schedule updates, weatherrelated adjustments, and program changes to staff and campers.

• Provide the Camp Supervisor with regular updates on camper participation, program delivery, and any concerns.

• Assistwith the setup and cleanup of daily activities andspecial events.

• Participate in required training, orientation, and meetings.

• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Minimum 16 years of age by June 1, 2026.
• Currently enrolled in secondary or postsecondary studies; high school completion preferred.
• Experience working with children or youth, and general knowledge of child development (e.g., camp counsellor, youth leadership, volunteer roles).
• Experience in outdoor, environmental,naturebasededucation, or similar fields.
• Completion of Counsellor-in-Training or Leader-in-Training programs is an asset.
• Standard First Aid with CPRC (required).
• HIGH FIVE® Healthy Child Development (required).
• Ability to supervise children in swimming pools.
• Ability to work in varied environments including outdoors in all weather and indoors.

Core Behaviours:

• Service Excellence: Provides highquality, inclusive service to campers and families.
• Change & Innovation: Adapts effectively to changing conditions, especially in outdoor environments.
• Teamwork & Relationship Building: Works respectfully and collaboratively with all staff, volunteers, and families.
• Communication: Communicates clearly, professionally,and with active listening.
• Accountable & Results Oriented:Demonstratesprofessionalism, reliability, and adherence to policies and safety protocols.
• Management & Leadership: Models positivebehaviour, shows initiative, and actively supports the development of others.

The City of Markham is committed to inclusive, accessible and barrier free employment practices and to creating a workplace that reflects and supports the diversity of the community we serve. Please let us know if you require an accommodation and we will work with you to ensure a barrier free hiring process.

AI Disclosure At the City of Markham, we value transparency and fairness in recruitment. While our system (ADP Workforce Now) includes AI-powered features, we do not use AI to screen, assess, or select applicants. All evaluations are conducted by people.

Vacancy: Temporary Seasonal Vacancy