We are currently looking for a Norquay Leadership Trainer & Guide to join our team of committed professionals. This Summer Contract position within the Association is based at the YMCA of Northeastern Ontario’s John Island Camp location near Spanish, ON.
Under the supervision of the Camp Director, the Norquay Leadership Trainer & Guide is responsible for the planning, implementation, facilitation, debriefing, and evaluation of the most senior Leadership Development Program.
This is one position with two distinct types of shifts. Trainer shifts take place when at John Island Camp. During these shifts, the Trainer delivers leadership development programming, supervises and mentors Norquay Leadership Campers, oversees their high school credit requirements, and prepares participants, equipment, and programming for their upcoming wilderness expedition. Guide shifts take place during the multi-week outtrip, when the Guide leads participants through their wilderness expedition and is responsible for the secure and effective delivery of the trip.
START DATE: As Soon As Possible
LOCATION: YMCA John Island Camp
RATE OF PAY: Starting at $19.00/hour for Trainer shifts and $21.56/hour for Guide shifts
HOURS: 42 hours/week
Major Responsibilities

Plan, organize, and implement the Norquay River program

Support and lead Norquay River participants, with a focus on technical skills such as whitewater wilderness expedition, risk management, and other program areas of camp

Promote leadership skills for campers while providing experiences in wilderness travel, whitewater canoeing, and camper care skills

Follow and implement the Norquay curriculum as outlined in the Norquay Trainer Manual

Oversee the delivery of the high school credit program for Norquay Leadership Campers, including communicating course expectations, supporting participants in completing course requirements, collecting and organizing assignments,



and ensuring required documentation is completed

Supervise and mentor Norquay Leadership Campers throughout their leadership placement, providing guidance, coaching, and regular feedback on their development

Support Leadership Campers during their cabin placements, helping them transition into leadership roles and develop their skills while working with younger campers

Plan and facilitate leadership development sessions that prepare campers for their responsibilities as leaders and future camp staff

Evaluate camper progress and leadership development, including providing feedback on participation, technical skills, camper care, and leadership responsibilities

Maintain appropriate records and documentation related to camper progress, assignments, evaluations, and other program requirements

Communicate with relevant camp staff and school or credit program contacts regarding the progress and requirements of Leadership Campers, as required

Prepare campers, equipment, and program resources for the Norquay outtrip

Lead Norquay Leadership Campers through their multi-week wilderness outtrip, providing instruction, supervision, mentorship, and technical leadership throughout the expedition

Ensure program activities and wilderness travel are delivered safely and in accordance with YMCA policies, camp procedures, and applicable risk management practices

Assist with the preparation, organization, and maintenance of equipment and resources required for Norquay and leadership programming





Build positive relationships with campers and staff and serve as a positive role model throughout the camp experience

Participate in staff training, meetings, evaluations, and program debriefs as required

Assist in other areas of camp programming and provide support during Family Camp

Qualifications

Possession of an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) considered an asset

Working towards or completion of a post-secondary education program in Outdoor Recreation, Adventure Leadership, Recreation, Education, or a related field

Minimum 3 years of experience working in a camp, outdoor education, or wilderness tripping program

Minimum 50 days of experience as a trip leader/guide

Experience working with campers ages 14–16

Experience planning and leading wilderness trips by canoe, sea kayak, and hiking

Strong wilderness camping, travel, and expedition skills

Knowledge of outtrip practices, remote travel, and wilderness risk management

Knowledge of leadership theories and teachings

Experience teaching wilderness, tripping, and leadership skills

Strong planning, organization, and independent decision-making skills

Excellent communication, interpersonal, and time management skills

Current 80-hour Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification

Current Whitewater Rescue Technician (WRT) certification

Current National Lifeguard certification

Current Standard First Aid and CPR-C certification

Current and satisfactory Police Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening

ORCKA certifications considered an asset

Food Safety certification considered an asset

HOW TO APPLY
If you would like to work in a family-friendly environment, please apply through our website with a cover letter and resume addressed to the Hiring Manager. This position will remain posted until filled.

📌 Norquay Leadership Trainer & Guide (Spanish)
🏢 YMCA Northeastern Ontario
📍 Spanish