Camps 2026 – Lead, Counsellor-in-Training

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 inspiring Lead, Counsellor-in-Training to oversee our CIT program. This role is responsible for planning and facilitating training for Counsellors-in-Training (CITs), providing them with the skills and knowledge needed to become future Counsellors. 

 

Position Title: Lead, Counsellor-in-Training 

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 Assistant Manager, Camps, and the Camps Coordinator, the Lead, Counsellor-in-Training (CIT) Program plans and facilitates training for Counsellors-in-Training (CITs), providing them with the skills and knowledge needed to become future Counsellors. The incumbent observes and provides feedback to CITs to ensure professional growth, organizes placements for CITs, and tracks their progress and evaluations to inform future hiring decisions. 

Duties

• Plan and facilitate training programs for Counsellors-in-Training (CITs), equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to become future Counsellors. Organize placements for each CIT in alignment with program standards and track their progress to inform future hiring decisions. 
• Observe and evaluate CITs during their placements, providing ongoing feedback to support their professional growth.  
• Train and assist in the development of Counsellors, focusing on effectively working with and evaluating CITs.  
• Perform administrative tasks, including evaluations, incident reports, hiring recommendations, volunteer letters and other documentation. 
• Provide excellent customer service to campers, families, and staff. 
• Address elevated customer service concerns and escalate issues when necessary. 
• Assist in ensuring camper and staff safety during emergency procedures. 
• Support 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 CIT behaviour in a positive and consistent manner, ensuring they are engaged, respectful, and following camp rules.  
• Take on additional tasks as needed to ensure the overall success of camp operations. 

 

Requirements 

• Currently studying/completed 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. 
• Ability to coach and provide constructive feedback to staff and CITs, 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. 
• Capable to work independently, take ownership of tasks, and manage daily responsibilities effectively and prioritize tasks; 
• Strong leadership skills to effectively guide staff through training sessions that align with program goals, ensuring a positive and safe environment for all participants.    
• Demonstrates punctuality and strong organizational skills, efficiently handling email/phone correspondence, prioritizing urgent tasks, balancing time constraints, and staying on track with schedules. 
• Proficient in common computer programs (e.g., MS Word, Excel, email, printers, and laminators). 
• 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.

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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.