Outdoor Education Lifeguard

YMCA of the National Capital Region • Ottawa, ON

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The YMCA of the National Capital Region's Y Outdoor Centre offers outdoor education, high-ropes activities and leadership programs to school, community and corporate groups 12 months of the year. This position will focus on the delivery of waterfront swimming and boating activities, outdoor education, and leadership programs to school age participants that include but are not limited to: canoe and kayak instruction; rock climbing and high ropes challenge course facilitation; outdoor living skills and nature education; and initiative and low ropes challenge course facilitation. The Lifeguard & Program Instructor will function as a team member responsible for the safety and well-being of participants at the waterfront, maintenance of high-quality programs for children and families by creating an educational, safe, clean and meaningful environment. This person will be an active part of the Outdoor Centre team and contribute to a successful program season.

Requirements

• Formal post-secondary education in an Outdoor related discipline (environmental studies, outdoor recreation, outdoor adventure, etc.) or equivalent experience.
• Fluent in English, oral and written
• Minimum of one season experience working outdoors in a waterfront setting.
• Requires standing, walking, for up to 8-12 hours
• Requires a moderate level of physical activity engage in swim, canoeing, kayaking, sports and play with program participants
• Applicants must already have a valid permit to work in Canada.
• A Police Record check, not more than 6 months old is required.
• Semi-annually, staff must complete the mandatory training for the protection of Children & Youth and submit the certificate of completion.

Nice To Haves

• Formal post-secondary education in Child and Youth Care, Recreation, Education, or a related field is considered an asset.
• Other languages are an asset
• Paddle Canada, LSS Instructor, ACCT Level I/II, or other relevant certifications will all be strongly considered as assets for this position

Responsibilities

• Coordinates waterfront operations through regular communication with lifeguards, instructors, and program staff to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality program delivery.
• Provides direction, guidance, and support to staff to ensure consistent program standards and compliance with safety procedures.
• Responds to routine participant, parent, and staff concerns using tact, professionalism, and sound judgment.
• Resolves minor conflicts and operational issues while maintaining positive working relationships.
• Maintains a welcoming, inclusive, and participant-focused environment through courteous and respectful communication

Benefits

• Free YMCA gym membership
• Discounted Y program fees (including health & fitness programs, child care, and camps)
• Access to our YMCA Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) including free, immediate, confidential assistance and counselling for you and your family members for mental and physical health, and financial advice, among other 12 suites of services
• Health and Dental Insurance
• Long-term Disability and Life Insurance
• Access to our Canadian YMCA Retirement Fund pension plan
• Up to 25 vacation days per year including two float days, and one birthday vacation
• Maternity leave benefits for up to 18 months

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree