CCH Camp Counsellor - Ground Summer

CCH Camp Counsellor - Higher Ground (Contract) - Summer 2026 Why should you join our team?

YMCA Calgary is a charity that ignites the potential in Calgarians. Since our inception in 1902, we have evolved into a vibrant organization operating in every quadrant of the city.

Guided by our core values of honesty, caring, respect and responsibility, YMCA Calgary offers a growing hub of programming & services to address the needs of our community including connection and belonging, physical and mental wellbeing, child‑care support, language instruction, affordable tutoring and more. We also ensure that no one is turned away, lowering financial barriers for youth, adults and families through the generous donations of our community.

This impact takes place across our 7 health and wellness facilities, 6 childcare centres, 2 outdoor camps and 12+ community programs, empowering people of all ages and life stages to belong, grow, thrive and lead.

CCH Camp Counsellor - Higher Ground (Contract Position)
Camp Chief Hector YMCA (Exshaw, Alberta)
Salary: $1242.50 Semi Monthly or $2485 Monthly

Start Date:

June 15th, 2026
End Date:
August 28th, 2026

* Successful candidate must be 18 years of age or older

You can make an impact in the community - locally and across the globe. You will work with a fun culture of people and enjoy many of the benefits and opportunities the YMCA offers:

• Complimentary YMCA Calgary membership including a linked membership for dependent children
• Program discounts
• Ongoing leadership development and opportunities
• Leadership award opportunities
• Scholarship opportunities
• Paid recertification and training

At YMCA Calgary we strive to ensure our employees are a fit based on their strengths, interests, and future goals. The successful candidate will have the following:

• Experience working with children to facilitate inclusion within programs in the outdoors
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Current Standard First Aid with CPR‑C certificated within the last 12 months from an approved AB OHS provider. Asset if certification is issued by one of the following five Canadian organizations:
  Canadian Red Cross, Heart and Stroke Foundation, Lifesaving Society, St John's Ambulance and/or Canadian Ski Patrol
• Previous experience working in a high ropes or rock climbing setting is an asset. Challenges Unlimited (CUI) Level 1 or 2 certification, or Adventureworks Certification is considered an asset.
• This job requires the candidate to work at heights, outside in weather and standing for extended periods of time.
• Wilderness First Aid, Paddle Canada canoe instructor, and challenge course facilitation certificates are mandatory for some positions. We offer opportunities to take these courses on our site
• Evidence of a clear Police Information Check and Vulnerable Sector Search
• Three professional references

Duties and

Responsibilities include:

• Work as part of a collaborative team to support all campers and fellow staff
• Be responsible for the risk management and comfort of participants in the outdoors
• Support group development and create a positive learning environment for all campers
• Be flexible and willing to support the team throughout a busy season
• Support the planning and facilitation of intentional, developmentally appropriate play‑based learning activities. This focuses on engagement in active play outside, both scheduled and creative activities
• Support all program areas
• Lead day hikes or overnight hiking trips, depending on the season
• Ensure a safe and clean environment that is in good repair
• Establish and maintain effective communication standards with peers and clients
• Professionally represent YMCA Calgary both internally and with the broader community
• Provide support for YMCA initiatives

• Primary facilitator of high ropes and/or rock climbing program and activities and overseeing program facilitation for 10 – 20 participants.
• Managing and maintaining our gear fleet of equipment and maintaining records of climbing programs.
• Program development and design climbing games and activities.

In addition to these…