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 Senior Instructors, Canoe/Kayak Camp to create positive, fun, and safe experiences for participants in our water-based camps.
Position Title: Senior Instructor, Canoe/Kayak Camps
Department: Education, Camps
Number of Vacancies: 10
Type of Employment: Seasonal contract, from mid 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 19 – July 3, 2026
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 Marine Supervisor and Head Instructors, Canoe/Kayak Camps, the Senior Instructor, Canoe/Kayak Camps will be responsible for creating a positive, fun, and safe environment for campers. Instructors will lead activities, provide supervision, and ensure the well-being of all campers throughout their camp experience. In the pre-camp season, Instructors partake in leadership training and are expected to commit to paddling skill development. During the camp season, Senior Instructors are responsible for the well-being of up to 12 campers, as well as supporting Junior Instructors and Instructors–in–Training during lessons and activities.
Duties
- Attend pre-camp Senior Instructor training and assist Head Instructors in training of Junior Instructors and Instructors-in-Training (IITs).
- Maintain adequate paddling skill level and knowledge to allow for quality instruction on and off-water.
- Oversee a camper group of up to 12 campers while working alongside the Junior Instructors and IITs.
- Plan and facilitate daily canoe/kayak programming.
- Plan, facilitate and supervise camp games and activities.
- Prepare daily materials and/or equipment.
- Provide feedback and guidance to Junior Instructors and IITs.
- Assist in preparation of boats prior to start of camp day, cleaning and maintenance and putting away of boats at end of camp day.
- Able to take ownership of staff and camper safety during an emergency procedure.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years of age within the calendar year.
- Must have completed or is working towards a secondary school diploma.
- Interest in pursuing post-secondary education in fields such as education, physical education, recreation, or a related field.
- Previous experience working with children and youth; childcare, camp counseling, or a similar field.
- Leadership experience in coaching, recreational/ sports teams, volunteering, school clubs etc.
- Experience with recreational water sports (canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, etc.) and interest in furthering paddling skills and ability.
- Passion for working with children and helping them grow in a positive environment.
- Strong communication and leadership skills.
- Consistently brings a positive, energetic attitude to the workplace, fostering a motivating and supportive environment.
- Ability to work in a team and handle multiple tasks at once.
- Previous experience as a marine camps instructor.
- 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 Bronze Cross, Canadian Red Cross Assistant Lifeguard, and/or NLS certification is required of the successful candidate and must be submitted prior to starting employment.
- 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.
- 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.