QUALIFICATIONS

• Enrolled in or completed a post-secondary degree or diploma in recreation and leisure, educational assistant, child and youth studies, education or related field.
• Minimum 2 years’ experience working with children with special needs and/or behavioural challenges.
• Experience supervising staff or volunteers is an asset.
• Experience working in a day or residential camp is an asset.
• Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (Crisis Prevention Institute) Training is an asset, training will be provided.
• Energy, enthusiasm and flexibility.
• Class G driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Current Standard First Aid with CPR-C.
• Current Police Vulnerable Sector Check (PVSC) issued for the YMCA of Niagara.
• The ability to participate in ongoing physical activity and work in an outdoor environment in various weather conditions.
• Participate in training and adhere to the YMCA Child & Youth Safety and Protection Policy.

This position may be supported by funding from Canada Summer Jobs and to be eligible for this grant position, the successful applicant must be between the ages of 18 to 30 years old.


COMPETENCIES:

Child and Youth Focused
Commits to assisting growth and development among children and youth.

Diversity
Appreciates that people with different opinions, backgrounds and characteristics bring a richness to the YMCA.

Commitment to Organization Vision and Values
Demonstrates and promotes a personal understanding of and appreciation for the mission, vision, strategic outcomes and values of the YMCA.

Concern for Health and Safety
Acknowledges and understands how to manage and educate others of risk and harm reduction.

Teamwork
Actively builds teams and encourages open relationships for maximum organizational effectiveness.

Creativity and Innovation
Develops new ways or adapts existing ideas to help us achieve desired results.

Leadership
Guides, motivates and inspires self and others to take action to achieve desired outcomes.


DAY CAMP OVERVIEW

Camp operates Monday to Friday with shifts scheduled between 7:45am-5:15pm. Most camp staff are scheduled to work between 7.5 and 8.5 hours per day.

Pre-camp responsibilities and training events may involve evenings or weekend hours.

For more information on this and the variety of camps we offer, please visit our website ymcadaycamp.ca.

Successful applicants must attend all pre-camp meetings and training including training on YMCA Child & Youth Safety and Protection Policies and Procedures.


APPLICATION PROCESS

All applicants are invited to apply online via link below.

Internal applicants are encouraged to notify their supervisor before applying.

All applicants are thanked for their interest. Only those applicants being considered for an interview will be contacted by email. Please note that interviews may take place virtually.

Accessibility accommodations and materials in alternate formats for individuals with disabilities can be arranged upon request.

Summer Day Camp Behaviour Specialist

Location: YMCA Day Camp at sites in St. Catharines, Grimsby, Welland, Port Colborne and Niagara Falls

Pay: $18.00/hour

Employment Type: Seasonal Contract – 42.5 to 44 hours per week. Hours of work are primarily Monday to Friday daytime, with some evenings and weekends required for training

Placement Date: Mid-June –August 29, 2025 inclusive of paid pre-camp training


Why Work for the YMCA?

The YMCA of Niagara is a mission-driven organization committed to fueling a healthy, connected, and engaged Niagara. Our presence in over 100 program sites has been impacting the community with dedication and purpose for over 150 years.

Our legacy in the community is a testament to the transformative work we do. We serve a diverse range of individuals and families, with a commitment to inclusivity, collaboration, and the wellbeing of all. As we move forward, we are embracing a revitalized approach to meet the evolving needs of the community and actively contribute to transforming lives across Niagara.

Guided by our shared values – caring, health, honesty, inclusiveness, advocacy, respect, and responsibility - the YMCA provides our employees with meaningful opportunities to make a positive impact on individuals and the health of our communities.

Our dynamic team is dedicated to maintaining our positive growth trajectory though continuously adapting and innovating our services and programs to meet the changing landscape in Niagara.


NATURE & SCOPE

The Behaviour Specialist role is to ensure the successful integration of children with diagnosed special needs and/or behavioural challenges into the YMCA Day Camp. Behaviour Specialists work as part of the Integration team to support children in the Helping Hands program and others who require additional assistance to be successful in the camp program.


RESPONSIBILITIES

• Visit assigned camp sites regularly to monitor and support campers; daily travel between locations required.
• Act as a resource providing different strategies and approaches that will allow campers to be integrated successfully.
• Ensure all required paperwork and documentation is completed in full and on time.
• Act as a team leader to direct, support and assist other team members and program support staff when any behavioural situations arise.
• Observe camper groups or individual campers and give strategies to team members on adapting activities and program plans to meet the needs of all campers.
• Maintain communication with parent/guardians about camper’s progress in camp.
• Assess conflict situations and exercise good judgment in recommending solutions.
• Assist with training and preparation for the camp season.
• Assist with staff meetings for Program Support counsellors.
• Model excellent customer service and leadership behaviors.
• Greet, welcome and serve members, volunteers, participants and parent/guardians with prompt courteous service.
• Act as a liaison while on duty to prevent or resolve problems.
• Follow Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (CPI) guidelines (when certified).
• Responsible for the safety and security of staff and participants.
• Other duties as assigned.