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, organized, adaptable and poised Inclusion Lead to help ensure that all campers, including those with diverse abilities and needs, have a safe, supportive, and inclusive camp experience. This role involves overseeing the implementation of individualized support plans and working closely with staff and caregivers to ensure a safe and supportive environment for all participants.
Position Title: Inclusion Lead
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: $20 per hour
Work Location: On-site at our waterfront campus in Toronto
Duties
- Organize and manage the placement of campers with exceptionalities or special needs who require a 1:1 staff-to-camper ratio.
- Support Inclusion Counsellor training to ensure they are equipped to meet the needs of campers with diverse abilities, including knowledge of care plans, safety protocols, and camp policies.
- Develop and facilitate inclusion and accessibility training for all camp staff, ensuring they are prepared to accommodate and support diverse camper needs.
- Communicate with parents/guardians prior to camp to discuss possible accommodations and needs of their child; this includes campers who require 1-1 support and campers who do not.
- Build and update camper profiles for all campers requiring additional support and provide this information to staff to ensure effective care and attention.
- Oversee and manage a team of Inclusion Counselors, provide guidance, and ensure they meet camp expectations for camper engagement and safety.
- Act as a resource to staff regarding inclusive programming, policies, and procedures, offering support and guidance where needed.
- Assist staff with managing challenging behaviors, providing strategies for de-escalation and ensuring a safe, supportive environment.
- Conduct administrative duties such as daily attendance, evaluations, incident reports, and other related documentation.
- Take ownership of the safety of Inclusion Counsellors and 1:1 campers during emergency procedures, ensuring their well-being during crises.
- Address inquiries and concerns from parents, campers, and staff, ensuring a positive experience for all;
- Resolve complex customer service issues with professionalism and care, ensuring concerns are addressed effectively.
- Provide respectful assistance with toileting for campers who require support, maintaining privacy and dignity.
- Adapt to additional responsibilities as needed to support the camp’s overall operations.
Requirements
- Currently enrolled in post-secondary education in a field such as education, child and youth studies, social services, autism and behaviour studies, inclusion support services, nursing or a related field, or have equivalent experience.
- 2-3 years of experience within a camp (day or overnight), daycare or educational setting;
- 2-3 years of previous experience directly leading and supervising camp programs and/or educational programs with youth.
- Experience working with children, particularly those with special needs or exceptionalities.
- Ability to remain organized throughout the workday (on-time submissions, staff evaluations, prioritize urgency of daily tasks, etc.).
- Ability to supervise a team of counsellors (collaborate, resolve conflict, provide feedback/tools, etc.).
- Capable of working independently, taking ownership of tasks, and managing daily responsibilities effectively and prioritizing tasks.
- Ability to bring a positive attitude and enthusiasm to each day.
- 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.
- Comfortable using phones and proficient in common computer programs (e.g., MS Word, Excel, email, printers, and laminators).
- 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.
- Advanced First Aid with CPR-HCP, Advanced Medical First Responder, and/or Emergency Medical Responder certificate is an asset.
- 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.