Assistant Director at YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth

Title: Assistant Director

Location: Big Cove Camp, Thorburn, NS

Position Status: Full-Time, Temporary

Start Date: April to September 2026

Compensation: $850+ per week

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, safe 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 neighborhoods into vibrant and healthy communities.

With us at their side, they can Shine On.

About The Role

The Assistant Director is a key senior leader responsible for the smooth, safe, and mission-driven operation of Big Cove YMCA Camp. Working closely with the Director of Big Cove Camp, this role supports staff leadership, program quality, daily operations, and the overall camper experience.

Throughout the preseason, the Assistant Director will assist with camp preparation, cleanup, and program development. In the spring season, this role also supports YMCA Outdoor Center programming, contributing to program delivery, logistics, and youth engagement initiatives.

This position is required to live onsite throughout the camp season (April/May to September) as an essential member of the camp management and emergency response team.

In This Role, You Will

Program & Operations Leadership

• Oversee day-to-day camp operations to ensure safety, program quality, and camper satisfaction.
• Serve as a core member of the camp’s Emergency Response Team, assisting with incident management, emergency procedures, and on-call responsibilities.
• Assist with designing and delivering programming for summer camp, school groups, and rental groups.
• Support recruitment, hiring, and training for approximately 55 staff and volunteers.
• Lead staff development initiatives including training sessions, mentorship, and ongoing feedback.
• Coordinate resources, scheduling, and logistics for Outdoor Education and rental groups during the shoulder seasons.
  
  

Administrative & Strategic Support

• Work with the Camp Director to develop, implement, and evaluate operational policies and procedures.
• Communicate with families, schools, and rental groups regarding program delivery and expectations.
• Support administrative tasks such as reporting, incident documentation, and program evaluation.
• Contribute to YMCA Child Engagement programs in Halifax during the off-season (Day Camps, Youth Programs, Licensed Childcare).
• Complete additional tasks as assigned by the General Manager, Child Engagement & Operations.
  
  

Staff Supervision & Development

• Coach and support staff in program delivery, safety practices, and camper care.
• Provide constructive feedback and mentorship to strengthen skills and team performance.
• Promote a positive, inclusive, and camper-focused culture.
  
  

Camp Operations Support

• Assist with facility cleaning and organization.
• Support kitchen duties including dishes and meal cleanup.
• Participate in groundskeeping and general camp upkeep.
• Help with trail maintenance, campsite readiness, and overall safety.
  
  

Mandatory

Education and skills qualifications:

• Post-secondary education in Outdoor Recreation, Outdoor Education, Education, or equivalent experience.
• Supervisory experience in camping, recreation, or experiential education.
• Strong understanding of program design, youth development, and risk management.
• Comfortable using Microsoft Office and digital communication tools.
  
  

Assets: 

• Class 4 Driver’s Licence
• Pleasure Craft Operator Card
• National Lifeguard
• ACCT Level 2 (High Ropes)
  
  

Key Competencies

• Leadership & team management
• Program planning & evaluation
• Safety & risk management
• Interpersonal & communication skills
• Conflict resolution & problem-solving
• Commitment to YMCA values, inclusion, and youth development
  
  

To Apply

Please apply online at https://ymcahfx.ca/workwithus/.

Please note that all successful candidates are required to provide:

• A Criminal Record Check, Vulnerable Sector Check, and Child Abuse Register Check (less than 6 months old), if 18 years of age or older
• A valid Fist Aid and CPR Training
  
  

Please note that background checks are reviewed on an individual basis – offenses, if any, are based on role and Child Safeguarding requirements, and may not eliminate candidates from employment at our YMCA.

At the YMCA, we are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace where every team member feels valued, respected, and empowered to bring their full, authentic self to work. We believe that a variety of perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences enrich our organization, enabling us to better serve our community and achieve our mission. As an equal opportunity employer, we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including Black, Indigenous, People of Colour, racially diverse, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, gender-diverse people, people with diverse abilities, members of ethnic minorities and faith groups, foreign-born residents, and veterans to apply.

If you require accommodation during the hiring process, please inform us in advance to arrange reasonable and appropriate accommodation.