Location: Big Cove YMCA Camp, Merigomish, Pictou County

Program: Big Cove YMCA Camp

Position Status: Full-Time

Compensation: $68,000 - $73,000 per year

There is potential inside all of us - we all have it in us to shine.

Every charity exists to help solve a problem - our charity exists to help solve many problems, from childcare shortages, social isolation, mental health issues, access to wellness, and more. Today, our network is spread across 100+ program locations in HRM and the province, meeting the most urgent needs of our communities in mental health supports, accessible childcare, supporting an increasing immigrant population, protected spaces for youth to grow and lead, helping to navigate a precarious labour market, delivering wellness programming for all, and creating community for isolated older adults.

We give people the tools, encouragement, and safe space to discover their inner strength. When they know someone’s in their corner, with unconditional support, they realize they can do more than they thought possible. It’s your support, expertise, and guidance that helps people ignite their full potential and shape our neighbourhoods into vibrant and healthy communities.

With us at their side, they can Shine On.

As Part of Your Total Compensation:

- Receive a complimentary YMCA membership to our Health & Fitness facilities
- Access to Y at Home, where you can participate in fitness programs from your own home
- Discounts on YMCA childcare and camp programs
- 3 weeks’ vacation entitlement and paid wellness days
- Comprehensive benefits package and pension
- Complimentary wellbeing and counselling services

About the Role:





Big Cove YMCA Camp is seeking a dynamic and visionary full-time, year-round Camp Director to lead our camp operations. As an innovative and inspirational leader with a keen eye for quality, you will play a pivotal role in advancing the YMCA’s purpose of igniting the potential in people and helping strengthen our evolving communities.

This role requires a highly independent, action-oriented leader who approaches camp operations with a positive, solutions-focused mindset. You will be responsible for creating an environment where staff and campers feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to grow.

During the Spring, Summer, and early Fall seasons, the Camp Director resides onsite.

In the Winter season, the position transitions to a base in Pictou County or Halifax, or at an approved remote location as agreed upon with the General Manager. Year-round, the Camp Director ensures all camp operations run efficiently, serves as a dedicated community partner, excelling in outreach, cultivating meaningful connections and driving the growth and visibility of Big Cove YMCA Camp.

Responsibilities Include:

Program Leadership and Delivery:

- Collaborate with camp staff to design, deliver, and evaluate high-quality outdoor education, recreation, and extracurricular programs aligned with YMCA values and operational objectives




- Ensure all programming is inclusive, welcoming, and safe—fostering confidence, leadership skills, social development, and lifelong learning
- Champion innovation in programming to keep camp experiences fresh, engaging, and impactful

Team Development and Leadership:

- Recruit, train, and mentor seasonal staff, building a collaborative, high-performance culture
- Serve as a role model by embodying YMCA values, purpose, and commitment to service in all interactions
- Ensure all staff complete the YMCA Child Safeguarding training and all other relevant onboarding requirements prior to the active camp season

Operational and Administrative Management:

- Oversee camp registration processes, budgets, and administrative systems to ensure efficiency, accuracy, and compliance
- Provide input and strategic support for the long-term facilities and site development plan
- Ensure all YMCA onboarding requirements are met, including interviews, reference checks, documentation, and certification tracking for staff files
- Identifying, prioritizing, and overseeing maintenance requirements

Community and Stakeholder Engagement:

- Build strong relationships with campers, families, advisory groups, alumni, and community partners to support enrollment and community impact
- Work closely with the Communications department to create and share engaging promotional materials for Big Cove YMCA Camp
- Act as an ambassador for the YMCA, representing the camp in community events and outreach initiatives

Other Duties as Required:

- Carry out other duties and responsibilities as rea

📌 Director, Big Cove YMCA Camp (Merigomish)
🏢 YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth
📍 Merigomish