Outdoor Program Facilitator

We currently have the following opportunity at the Kinark Outdoor Centre:

Outdoor Program Facilitator

Kinark Outdoor Centre, Minden ON

Temporary, Full Time Contract

Start Date: Early May 2024

Contracts Available: 6-Months (May-October), 4-Months (May-August),

possible extension into the winter season

$17.00-$19.00 an hour @ 35-40 hours per week (includes evenings and weekends)

Free on-site accommodation

About the Kinark Outdoor Centre:

The Kinark Outdoor Centre (KOC) facilitates a range of outdoor activities and therapeutic recreation that are educational and experiential. Some programs are customized specifically to meet the needs of their diverse client population including children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families. Throughout the operating season, the staff at the KOC facilitate both autism and community programs. This can include things like - family camps, elementary and secondary schools, complex needs program and youth and adult organizations.

Job Summary

Reporting to the Program Supervisors, the Outdoor Program Facilitator is responsible for interacting with children, family members and group leaders while facilitating safe and fun recreational programming.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Interact with children and youth and foster interaction among them.
• Maintain a fun, positive, and safe environment for all clients visiting the KOC.
• Facilitate outdoor recreation activities including, but not limited to, rock climbing, high ropes, hiking, swimming, canoeing, kayaking and stand up paddleboarding in the Spring and Summer, while leading snowshoeing, cross country skiing, tubing and broomball in the winter season.
• Facilitate group development through games, leadership activities and initiatives.
• Adapt programs as necessary to suit the wants and needs of all participants.
• Assist in preparation of the facility prior to group arrival.
• Keep track of, and perform, required maintenance of program equipment.
• Understand and be confident with ALL emergency procedures at the KOC.
• Know, enforce, and follow all safety guidelines associated with all KOC programs.
• Attend and complete all trainings.

Qualifications and Expectations:

• Experience working in a childcare setting (such as camps, live-in treatment homes, school system) with children and/or youth of varying age and needs. **
• Be open to feedback and constructive criticism, showing respect and recognizing others' roles and contributions. **
• Work experience in outdoor recreation, environmental programming, and managing large groups.
• Current Standard First Aid and CPR C are required (Wilderness First Aid will be accepted).
• Pleasure Craft Operators Card (PCOC) or willingness to obtain before start date.
• Preference will be given to those candidates who posses a current National Lifeguard certification, or willingness to obtain before start date. The Kinark Outdoor Centre will reimburse staff for the cost of obtaining or recertifying.
• Strong organizational, interpersonal, time-management and communication skills.
• Ability to work as a member of a team and the ability to accomplish tasks with little direct supervision.
• Must have the physical ability to lead and participate in outdoor recreation activities including, but not limited to, rock climbing, high ropes, hiking, swimming, canoeing, kayaking and stand up paddleboarding in the Spring and Summer, while leading snowshoeing, cross country skiing, tubing, and broomball in the Winter season.
• Must have the ability to restrain and physically support children when needed for safety in general KOC activities. Training will be provided.
• Police Record Check (including a Vulnerable Sector Screening) and Pre-Employment Medical required.

Benefits and Perks:

• Be an important part of an incredibly diverse, fun, talented, and inclusive staff team.
• Spending most of your time outside enjoying all the KOC has to offer with our clients.
• Access to accommodations and dining service throughout the duration of their contract at no additional cost.
• Accommodations include shared cabins and kitchen, private staff washrooms and parking. Laundry facilities are also available on-site at no additional cost.
• Access to High-Speed Wireless Internet in several communal locations for use outside of work hours.
• Extensive in-house training specific to the program which includes Challenge Course facilitation, Safe Management Crisis Intervention, program facilitation and Autism Training.
• Competitive salary: $17.00-$19.00 per hour + 4% vacation pay in lieu of vacation.
• Staff are scheduled to work an average of 35-40 hours per week (4-12 hours per day depending on group needs).