Camp Leader/Lifeguard

General Information

The Cowichan Valley Regional District is now accepting applications from prospective candidates to work in a combination position as a Camp Leader and Lifeguard for summer 2026 at the Shawnigan Lake Community Centre in the South Cowichan Recreation Division. This is a great opportunity for those seeking to gain experience in the recreation and childcare field. Our summer positions provide the opportunity for you to learn and be mentored by experienced staff, gain valuable coaching feedback/support throughout your employment and gain valuable training courses that can be utilized in our future careers.

Working under the supervision of the Child Care Coordinator, the Camp Leader / Lifeguard works at our licensed child care center providing direct leadership, instruction and supervision in a varied and comprehensive program for children ages 3 – 12, and at the Shawnigan Lake waterfront lifeguarding for our day camps. There is an educational component to daily activities to encourage protection of the environment and promote active, healthy lifestyles where many activities take place in our natural environments. The CVRD is committed to providing a positive work environment that embraces diversity.

Qualifications

Minimum secondary school graduation and minimum 19 years old.

Have completed a course, or a combination of courses, of at least 20 hours duration in child development, guidance, health and safety, or nutrition.

Candidates must possess a valid NL certificate as well as a Basic First Aid with CPR C certificate.

Waterfront certification and experience lifeguarding in a waterfront setting would be an asset.

Lifeguarding experience is required; Minimum 250 hours of experience is preferred.

The successful candidate is enthusiastic, energetic and enjoys working with children.

The successful candidate possesses the ability to:

Perform lifeguarding duties in a lakefront environment.

Establish and maintain a respectful, fun relationship with children while maintaining a position of authority.

Establish and maintain effective working relationships with other staff, managers, and the general public.

Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing when communicating with children, parents and supervisors, including listening and following direction.

Work independently as well as a member of a team.

Preference will be given to candidates aged 15-30 years as per the Canada Summer Jobs Program through Service Canada, however candidates outside of this age range will be considered.

Hours of Work

This temporary, non-union position commences June 22, 2026, and ends on September 4, 2026, subject to enrolment and funding. Hours of work are 30 hours per week, Monday to Friday. There may be opportunities to retain casual employment throughout the year if you have a desire to further your work experience in the recreation field.

Salary

Compensation is based on the work that is being done. When performing Camp Leader work, it will be $26.26 per hour, which is $22.41 plus 6% pay in lieu of vacation, 6% pay in lieu of benefits and 5.2% pay in lieu of statutory holidays. When performing Lifeguard work, it will be $33.16 per hour, which is $28.29 per hour plus 6% pay in lieu of vacation, 6% pay in lieu of benefits and 5.2% pay in lieu of statutory holidays. (2025 wage rates)

Application Instructions

Please submit a resume and cover letter as part of your application.

Note

Successful candidates will be required to submit a satisfactory police information check and driver’s abstract.

Job applicants requiring accommodation to participate in any stage of the hiring process should contact Human Resources at to communicate their accommodation needs.

Temporary Summer