YMCA of the National Capital Region·Ottawa, Ontario
The Program Instructor is responsible for delivering high-quality outdoor education and leadership programs to school-age participants. They must also maintain program areas and equipment while ensuring a safe and meaningful environment for all participants.
The YMCA is a charity that has been helping Canadians improve their lives since the first Y opened in 1851. Y programs are offered at more than 1,700 locations across Canada and help more than 2.25 million people annually become healthier in spirit, mind, and body. The YMCA of the National Capital Region proudly serves people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities, and works to address critical social needs in our community. We are a leader and valued partner in creating a vibrant and healthy community where everyone belongs and can reach their full potential.
This position requires a commitment to the Y mission and core values of excellence, compassion, dignity, accountability and inclusion, which form the foundation of all Y programs and services.
Working for the Y
Are you looking to use your skills and unique gifts to make a real difference in your community?
The YMCA of the National Capital Region is a great workplace committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, where different backgrounds, experiences, and identities are appreciated and celebrated.
The YMCA provides hundreds of employees with meaningful jobs and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of individuals and the health of our communities.
We recognize the contributions of our staff through innovative practices, great benefits, and growth opportunities.
Whether you are starting out in your career or a seasoned professional, you will find many exciting opportunities to achieve your personal and career goals.
This job posting is for a new position. This is a part-time contract position from August 24th, 2026 to December 31th, 2026.
What do we offer?
At the Y, you will be part of a vibrant and diverse network of people whose shared vision is to be a leader, partner and catalyst that empowers individuals, dismantles barriers and transforms communities.
*Some benefits may vary based on employment terms
What do you offer?
The YMCA of the National Capital Region’s Y Outdoor Centre offers outdoor education, high-ropes activities and leadership programs to school, community and corporate groups 12 months of the year. This position will focus on the delivery of outdoor education, and leadership programs to school age participants that include but are not limited to: canoe and kayak instruction; rock climbing and high ropes challenge course facilitation; outdoor living skills and nature education; and initiative and low ropes challenge course facilitation. The Program Instructor will function as a team member responsible for the maintenance of high quality programs for children and families by creating an educational, safe, clean and meaningful environment for children. This person will be an active part of the Outdoor Centre team and contribute to a successful program season.
What qualifications and abilities are we looking for?
At the YMCA of the National Capital Region, we strive to ensure our employees are a fit based on their strengths, interests, and future goals.
Education
Formal post-secondary education in an Outdoor related discipline (environmental studies, outdoor recreation, outdoor adventure, etc.) or equivalent experience.
Formal post-secondary education in Child and Youth Care, Recreation, Education, or a related field is considered an asset.
Experience, Skills and Abilities
Paddle Canada, LSS Instructor, ACCT Level I/II, or other relevant certifications will all be strongly considered as assets for this position
Minimum of one season experience working outdoors in a waterfront setting.
Requires standing, walking, for up to 8-12 hours
Requires a moderate level of physical activity engage in swim, canoeing, kayaking, sports and play with program participants
Excellence: Identifies and implements improvements that enhance work quality.
Compassion: Involves warmth and supportive communication. Fosters understanding and collaboration, leading to a positive work environment.
Dignity: Involves respecting every individual’s worth, promoting fairness and valuing perspectives. It encourages a culture of integrity, mutual respect, and empowerment.
Accountability: Manages tasks, projects, and processes effectively.
Inclusion: Demonstrates self-awareness and commitment to IDEA, ethics, and well-being.
Inclusiveness is a part of our core values and we are committed to ensuring the diversity of the people and communities we serve and as well as our staff. We welcome candidates from racialized groups, invisible minorities, Indigenous People, women, persons with disabilities, persons who identify as 2SLGBTQ+.
YMCA of the National Capital Region is committed to accessibility in employment and to ensuring equal access to employment opportunities for candidates, including persons with disabilities. In compliance with AODA, the YMCA will endeavour to provide accommodation to people with disabilities in the recruitment process upon request. If you are selected for an interview and require accommodation due to a disability during the recruitment process, please email peopleandculture@ymcaottawa.ca upon scheduling your interview.
At the YMCA, we are committed to maintaining a fair and equitable hiring process. We do not use artificial intelligence (AI) to screen, assess, or select applicants for any positions of employment. All employment decisions are made by our dedicated People and Culture team, ensuring that each candidate is evaluated on an individual basis with the utmost consideration for their unique qualifications and experiences.
How to apply?
All internal applicants must inform their supervisor of their intention to apply for the position.
Thank you for your interest in joining the YMCA of the National Capital Region. We appreciate all applications. Due to the volume of applicants, we are only able to contact those selected for further consideration in the hiring process.
The YMCA of the National Capital Region is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Market context
Ontario classroom teacher roles are typically in steady demand, especially for candidates with an Ontario Teaching Certificate and experience supporting diverse learners. These positions can be competitive because schools often look for strong behavior management, emotional stability, and a Special Education Certificate as an asset. Before applying, review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform to save research time, then tailor your application to show classroom management and special education experience.
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