Application Deadline: May 31, 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 currently seeking a dependable and engaging Camp Program Lead, Kinder Explorers with a can-do attitude and a strong sense of adaptability to be responsible for the preparation and delivery of camps programming for children primarily in the age group of 4-6.
Position Title: Camp Program Lead, Kinder Explorers
Department: Education, Camps
Number of Vacancies: 1
Type of Employment: Seasonal contract, from June to end of August 2026 (Camp Operations: July 6 – August 28, 2026)
Hours Of Work: Monday to Friday, up to 35-40 hours per week (training on weekends may be assigned)
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 Camp Coordinator and Camp Supervisors, the Camp Program Lead, Kinder Explorers is responsible for the preparation and delivery of camps programming within their assigned young camper’s camp, ages 4-6. This role involves leading and coordinating camp programming, managing activity schedules, managing a team of counsellors and supporting the overall success and safety of the camp. The Camp Program Lead will be a leader in activity planning, camper management, and emergency protocols. The Camp Program Lead will work closely with counsellors and campers to ensure a fun, inclusive, and safe environment for all participants. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a positive, adaptable attitude and the ability to manage shifting priorities with flexibility. They are a key member of the camps team and serve as ambassadors of Harbourfront Centre Camps through their regular contact with members of the public.
Duties
- Create and implement activities that reflect the camp’s values and goals, ensuring a fun, engaging experience for campers.
- Design and lead age-appropriate activities tailored to the specific camp’s objectives and camper interests.
- Apply basic technical skills relevant to camp activities, including the safe and effective use of program equipment, following established processes, and helping campers develop their own practical skills.
- Oversee camp counselor performance, provide guidance, and ensure they meet camp expectations for camper engagement and safety.
- Offer feedback and support to counselors, helping them improve their skills and stay motivated throughout the camp.
- Manage daily attendance, evaluations, and incident reports, ensuring smooth operations and compliance with camp protocols.
- Address camper concerns and provide updates to parents as needed, ensuring open and effective communication.
- Lead emergency procedures, ensuring the safety of all campers and staff, and act quickly during critical situations.
- Ensure smooth drop-off and pick-up procedures, creating a welcoming atmosphere for campers and parents.
- Address and manage camper behavior in a positive and consistent manner, ensuring campers are engaged, respectful, and following camp rules.
- 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
- Currently studying in post-secondary education in a field such as education, the arts, recreation or a related field, or have equivalent experience.
- 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.
- Experience developing lesson and activity plans.
- Previous supervision experience of staff or volunteers within a camp or educational setting.
- Experience with one of the specialized disciplines: visual arts, fashion/ textile arts, circus arts, dance, performing arts, games, science, etc.
- Ability to coach and provide constructive feedback to staff, fostering a collaborative environment and ensuring top performance from the team.
- Consistently brings a positive, energetic attitude to the workplace, fostering a motivating and supportive environment.
- 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 candidacy by sending a resume and cover letter to jobs@harbourfrontcentre.com by no later than May 31, 2026. Please quote Camp Program Lead in the subject line of your application. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, as such early submission is encouraged.
We thank all applicants for their interest, however only those being considered for an interview will be contacted. Please know that our recruitment process does not involve the use of Artificial Intelligence tools; the review of received applications and hiring decisions are made by humans.