Application Deadline: January 25, 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 several dynamic, positive and responsible Junior Instructors, Canoe/Kayak Camp to create positive, fun, and safe experiences for participants in our water-based camps.
Position Title: Junior Instructor, Canoe/Kayak Camps
Department: Education, Camps
Number of Vacancies: 10
Type of Employment: Seasonal contract, from mid end of June to end of August 2026
Hours Of Work: An anticipated work schedule of 35-40 hours per week, taking place from Monday – Friday, with a mandatory training during June 26 – July 3, 2026
Rate of Pay: $17.60 per hour
Work Location: On-site at our waterfront campus in Toronto
Summary of Function
Under the direction of the Head Instructors and Senior Instructors, Canoe/Kayak Camps, the Junior Instructor, Canoe/Kayak Camps will be responsible for creating a positive, fun, and safe environment for campers. The incumbent will lead activities, provide supervision, and ensure the well-being of all campers throughout their camp experience. In the pre-camp season, Junior Instructors partake in leadership training and are expected to commit to paddling skill development. During the camp season, Junior Instructors are responsible for the well-being of up to 12 campers, as well as supporting Senior Instructors during lessons and activities.
Duties
- Attend pre-camp training and assist Instructors in delivery of training to Instructors-in-Training (IITs).
- Gain and maintain adequate paddling skill level and knowledge to allow for quality instruction on and off-water.
- Assist Instructors and Head Instructors in the facilitation of programming.
- Assist Instructors in supervising a camper group of up to 12 campers.
- Provide feedback and guidance to IITs.
- Plan and facilitate camp games and activities.
- Prepare boats prior to start of camp day, assist in cleaning and maintenance of boats, and putting away of boats at end of camp day.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Requirements
- Must be at least 16 years of age within the calendar year.
- Canoeing and/or kayaking experience is required.
- Ability to develop, organize and lead canoe/kayak programming.
- Ability to be responsible (punctual, prioritize safety of campers/other staff, etc.).
- Ability to bring a positive attitude and enthusiasm to each day.
- Must enjoy working with children and youth.
- Previous experience working with children or youth (babysitting, tutoring, camp, after-school programs, etc.).
- Previous Harbourfront Centre Camps Instructor-in-Training an asset.
- Interest in furthering paddling skills and ability.
- Bronze Cross, Canadian Red Cross Assistant Lifeguard, or NLS are considered a strong asset.
- As a condition of employment, a current Paddle Canada or ORCKA Instructor certificate in Canoeing and/or Kayaking is required of the successful candidate (relevant courses will be offered the week of June 22 – 26, 2026).
- As a condition of employment, a Criminal Background Check (with Vulnerable Sector Check) is required of the successful candidate (over 18 years of age). The cost of this screening is to be covered by the incumbent.
- 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.
- 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 January 25, 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.