Parks Canada jobs in Ottawa, ON

Child and Youth Worker, Summer Camp -

Position Summary

Reporting to the Child and Youth Program Supervisor, the Child and Youth Worker – Summer Camp is responsible for planning and facilitating engaging, developmentally appropriate programming for children and youth residing in the shelter (ages 5–13).

This role works within a trauma-informed, strengths-based, and anti-oppressive framework, supporting participants’ emotional well-being, social development, and sense of safety while creating a structured and positive camp experience.

Key Responsibilities

Program Planning and Facilitation

• Assist in developing and implementing a daily schedule of recreational, educational, and skill-building activities appropriate for children aged 5–13
• Integrate creative expression, play-based learning, and age-appropriate opportunities to build social-emotional skills and resilience
• Deliver programming that promotes healthy relationships, respect, and emotional regulation

Trauma-Informed Care and Support

• Apply trauma-informed, strengths-based approaches in all interactions with children and youth
• Recognize and respond appropriately to trauma-related behaviours and emotional needs
• Foster a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment that promotes trust and empowerment
• Refer concerns regarding participant well-being to the Child and Youth Program Supervisor or appropriate frontline staff

Supervision and Safety

• Provide attentive supervision of children during all program activities, including outings and field trips
• Accompany participants on field trips to local parks and recreation facilities
• Maintain strict confidentiality and protect the privacy and safety of all residents in accordance with shelter policies
• Follow all safety procedures and organizational policies at all times

Communication and Collaboration

• Build respectful, supportive relationships with children, caregivers, and staff
• Communicate effectively with parents/caregivers during drop-off and pick-up times
• Liaise with frontline staff regarding participant needs, behaviours, or incidents
• Report all incidents, concerns, or issues promptly and accurately

Program Operations

• Set up and clean up program spaces before and after activities
• Maintain the childcare and program areas in a clean, safe, and organized manner
• Assist with snack and meal supervision as required
• Ensure all registration forms, permissions, and documentation are completed and maintained appropriately
• Gather and maintain program data for evaluation purposes

Other Duties

• Perform other related duties as assigned

Qualifications and Skills

Education and Experience

• As this is a grant position under Canada Summer Jobs candidates must be 30 years old or younger at the start of employment; a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or a person to whom refugee protection has been conferred; have a valid Social Insurance Number; be legally entitled to work in Canada
• Experience working with children and youth in a recreational, educational, or community setting
• Diploma or current enrolment in a related program (e.g., Early Childhood Education, Child and Youth Care, Social Services Worker, or similar) preferred
• Valid Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening
• Current First Aid and CPR certification

Core Competencies

• Understanding of trauma-informed care and its application with children and youth
• Awareness of gender-based violence and its impacts on children and families (asset)
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to build positive relationships with diverse individuals and families
• Conflict resolution and de-escalation skills
• Sound judgment, problem-solving, and crisis management abilities
• Ability to engage and motivate children with varying needs, abilities, and backgrounds
• Commitment to anti-oppressive, inclusive, and culturally responsive practice

Working Conditions

• Physically able to participate in active programming, including indoor and outdoor activities
• May be required to lift and move equipment or furniture
• Exposure to varying weather conditions during outdoor activities

meaningful experience in youth development!

Pay: $23.40 per hour

Benefits:

• Casual dress

Work Location: In person