Challenge Course and Initiatives Team Lead

We are currently looking for a Challenge Course & Initiatives Team Lead to join our team of committed professionals. This full-time contract position within the Association is based 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 Challenge Course & Initiatives Team Lead is responsible for all challenge course and initiatives programming at camp. This includes planning, preparing, and leading programs such as the low ropes elements, high ropes elements, and the climbing wall. The Challenge Course & Initiatives Team Lead ensures the safety and well-being of all staff and participants, supervises challenge course staff, manages program equipment and resources, and works to deliver a high-quality, engaging, and meaningful 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 challenge course and initiatives programs, including high ropes elements, low ropes elements, initiatives activities, and the climbing wall Ensure the safety and well-being of all staff and participants in challenge course programs Supervise challenge course staff and support their training, development, and performance through ongoing feedback and evaluations Develop and deliver staff training sessions during Staff Training Week and throughout the summer Collaborate with the Camp Director to develop, review, and update all Local Operating Procedures for challenge course activities Work with third-party organizations to ensure all equipment and elements are operating safely and as intended Facilitate programs during individual choice and specialty program periods Conduct daily and monthly inspections of all challenge course equipment and elements Manage challenge course program equipment and resources Adhere to OCA, YMCA, and John Island Camp policies, procedures, and guidelines Perform 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 Experience or education in adventure programming, challenge course, and climbing wall operations Experience training and supporting staff in challenge course skills and group facilitation Experience planning, facilitating, and instructing challenge course and climbing wall programs in an overnight camp setting Experience supervising staff in challenge course environments and ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants Skilled in risk management related to challenge course and climbing wall operations Knowledgeable in challenge course and climbing wall safety, rescues, and life safety systems Ability to facilitate staff training sessions for challenge course staff Strong verbal and written communication skills Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and time management skills Bilingualism in both official languages is considered an asset Current and satisfactory Police Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening Current Challenge Course Instructor (Level 2) certification required   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 johnislandcamp@ymcaneo.ca