Application Deadline: February 16, 2026
Harbourfront Centre is a leading cultural institution in Toronto, celebrated for its vibrant arts, culture, community and recreational programs. As a not-for-profit organization, we are committed to enriching the lives of diverse communities through creativity, innovation, connection and excellence. Currently, exciting seasonal employment opportunities exist in Harbourfront Centre Camps, one of Toronto’s largest, most diverse and creative day camps!
We are seeking a collaborative, engaging and responsible Program Lead, Sailing Camp to support the smooth daily operation of Sailing Camps for children aged 7–9, with a primary focus centered on land-based programming
Position Title: Program Lead, Sailing Camp
Department: Education, Camps
Number of Vacancies: 1
Type of Employment: Seasonal contract, from early May to end of August 2026
Hours Of Work: Starting with part-time hours in May for initial training, changing later in June to an anticipated work schedule of 35-40 hours per week, taking place from Monday – Friday (training may be assigned on weekends)
Rate of Pay: $19.50 per hour
Work Location: On-site at our waterfront campus in Toronto
Summary of Function
Under the direction of the Coordinator and the Marine Camps Supervisor and in collaboration with the Toronto Harbour Nautical Centre (THNC) Head Instructor, the Program Lead, Sailing Camp role centers on the delivery and support of Sailing Camp land-based programming, camper support, and counsellor coordination, ensuring a fun, safe, and structured environment while THNC instructors deliver Sail Canada’s on-water curriculum. The incumbent will work closely with Counsellors and campers to ensure a fun, inclusive, and safe environment for all participants.
Duties
- Plan and lead simple, age-appropriate, nautical-themed crafts, games and activities for WetFeet program.
- Ensure Counsellors are equipped with materials, activity plans, and clear expectations.
- Maintain a welcoming, encouraging atmosphere for campers transitioning between land and water activities.
- Support Counsellors in delivering structured activities and engaging campers.
- Monitor participation, behaviour, and group dynamics, stepping in early when issues arise.
- Communicate daily programming needs and updates clearly with Counsellors and THNC staff.
- Manage attendance, camper movement between Harbourfront Centre and THNC, and transition timing.
- Assist with drop-off and pick-up routines.
- Support daily safety procedures and respond promptly to incidents.
- Assist with parent phone calls at the direction of the Sailing Camps Head Instructor regarding injuries, behaviour, or general updates (in alignment with THNC management and Harbourfront Centre procedures).
- Complete behaviour notes, incident reports, and daily summaries accurately.
- Meet with the THNC Head Instructor daily at 8:45am to stay aligned on the day’s plan.
- Provide real-time updates and flag issues promptly.
- Help ensure seamless coordination between counsellors and THNC instructors.
- Provide respectful assistance with toileting for campers who require support, maintaining privacy and dignity.
- Take on additional tasks as needed to ensure the overall success of camp operations.
Requirements
- 2-3 years of experience within a camp (day or overnight), daycare or educational setting working/supervising children and youth.
- 2-3 years of demonstrated experience directly leading camp programs and/or educational programs with children and youth.
- Ability to lead crafts and themed games (sailing experience is a plus).
- Previous supervision experience of staff or volunteers within a camp or educational setting.
- Positive, flexible attitude with the ability to adapt to changing daily needs.
- Ability to work independently, take ownership of tasks, and manage daily responsibilities effectively and prioritize tasks.
- Demonstrates punctuality and strong organizational skills, efficiently handling email/phone correspondence, prioritizing urgent tasks, balancing time constraints, and staying on track with schedules.
- Enjoys engaging with and supporting the development of children and youth in a camp setting.
- As a condition of employment, a current and valid Standard First Aid and CPR-C certification is required of the successful candidate. The cost of this certification is to be covered by the incumbent.
- As a condition of employment, a Criminal Background Check (with Vulnerable Sector Check) is required of the successful candidate. The cost of this screening is to be covered by the incumbent.
- Must be legally eligible to work in Canada for the duration of the seasonal contract.
- This role is based in Toronto. The candidate must be able to work on site at our lakeside campus.
Our Values
At Harbourfront Centre, our values—Open, Brave, Rigorous, and Kind—reflect our commitment to inclusivity, imaginative risk-taking, excellence, and respect, ensuring enriching experiences for all.
How To Apply
Harbourfront Centre’s Camps team is dedicated to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion. We are passionate about supporting participants of all ages and abilities in their growth and development. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, regardless of race, ancestry, ethnic origin, place of origin, color, age, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, family status, creed, citizenship, or disability. We are committed to a barrier-free recruitment process and invite applicants to request accommodation at any stage of the hiring process.
We invite qualified applicants to submit their cover letter and resume through the Harbourfront Centre Camps Recruitment Portal at https://harbourfrontcentre.campbrainstaff.com/ by February 16, 2026. You will be asked to create a profile and proceed to the application selection page.
We thank all applicants for their interest, however only those being considered for an interview will be contacted.