Summer jobs, Student jobs

Position: Camp Counsellor
Type: summer positions
Company: Toronto Island SUP (TISUP)
Location: Toronto Island, Ontario 
Also hiring: Toronto Island

Position Summary

Camp Counsellors are responsible for delivering Toronto Island SUP's summer children's camp programming for youth aged 7-12 years. Working under the supervision of the Camp Director, Counsellors ensure a safe, inclusive, and engaging camp experience that balances paddling instruction, outdoor education, and personal development.

This role involves direct supervision of campers throughout the day, including daily transportation to and from Toronto Island, on-water and land-based activities, and structured educational programming. Camp Counsellors are key role models and ambassadors of Toronto Island SUP's values.

Nature of Work

The summer camp operates in week-long sessions (Monday to Friday), with full-day programming. Campers are met on the city side each morning, transported to Toronto Island, and returned to the city side in the late afternoon or early evening for parent or guardian pickup.

Typical camp hours run approximately 8:30 a.m. to 4:00-5:00 p.m., depending on daily programming and ferry schedules.

Programming focuses on character development, teamwork, and natural science education within an outdoor watersports setting. Counsellors are not required to be subject-matter experts in all areas: however, they must be willing to learn and deliver the Toronto Island SUP curriculum following a structured training period and with ongoing support from management.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and care for campers during transportation, camp hours, and all scheduled activities
• Assist with daily pickup and drop-off of children on the city side and Toronto Island
• Deliver age-appropriate SUP and kayak instruction to children in a safe and engaging manner
• Monitor campers during on-water and land-based activities to ensure safety and inclusion
• Teach and reinforce Toronto Island SUP curriculum, with emphasis on character development and environmental awareness
• Provide guidance, encouragement, and behavioural support to campers
• Act as a positive role model and consistently embody Toronto Island SUP values
• Engage professionally with parents and guardians and build positive rapport
• Assist with equipment transport, setup, and storage
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the beach and activity areas
• Conduct basic equipment checks and assist with general care and upkeep
• Provide first aid or assist in emergency or rescue situations where required, where safe to do so, and within the scope of training and certification

Required Qualifications

• Minimum age of 16 years
• Experience working with children
• Personal or professional experience with stand-up paddleboarding and/or kayaking
• Strong swimming ability and confidence in open-water environments
• Current First Aid and CPR-C certification
• Valid Vulnerable Sector Check

Preferred / Assets:

• National Lifeguard Service (NLS) or Bronze Cross
• Previous experience in outdoor education or waterfront programming

Core Competencies

• Clear and professional communication with children, parents, and colleagues
• Strong organizational and time-management skills
• Sound judgment and situational awareness
• Ability to problem-solve in dynamic outdoor environments
• Patience, adaptability, and leadership with youth
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Physical ability to lift, move, and transport equipment
• Ability to practice appropriate self-care while working in a physically demanding, outdoor waterfront environment

Working Hours & Commitment

• Mandatory paid training period in May or June prior to the start of camp programming
• Strong weekday availability required
• Typical hours range from 30-40+ hours per week, depending on performance, availability, and seasonal demand

Compensation

Toronto Island SUP is an equal-opportunity employer that values diversity, inclusion, and professional growth. Compensation is competitive within the local outdoor recreation industry and is discussed during the interview process.

Apply

Interested candidates must apply through the form available at: 
https://www.torontoislandsup.com/hiring | Form

For questions or clarifications, applicants may contact:

Julian Ganton, Director
julian@torontoislandsup.com

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