The Cowichan Valley Regional District is now accepting applications from prospective candidates to work as a Playground Leader at the Kerry Park Recreation Centre for summer 2025 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 Programs & Marketing Coordinator, Playground Leaders provide direct leadership, instruction and supervision in a varied and comprehensive program for children and youth ages 3 – 15. 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.  Playground programs are facilitated in our community parks.

• Preferred candidates are enrolled in post secondary education in a related field.
• A first aid with child CPR certificate is required.
• Theoretical and/or practical experience developing, promoting and leading recreation programs and experience leading and supervising children and youth ages 3-15 is required.
• Knowledge of programming for summer camp is required.
• Knowledge of public relations and marketing would be an asset.
• The successful candidate is enthusiastic, energetic and enjoys working with children and youth.
• Successful candidates possess effective organizational skills and the ability to:
  • Establish and maintain a respectful, fun relationship with children and youth 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 and youth, 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.

This position is available for a period of 9 weeks commencing June 23, 2025 and continuing until August 22, 2025, subject to funding. Hours of work are Monday to Friday and will consist of: six positions at 30 hours per week; two positions at 17.5 hours per week; and casual, on-call opportunities. 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.

This temporary position is unionized (CUPE Local 358), and is compensated at $26.39 per hour, which is $23.05 per hour plus 6% pay in lieu of benefits, 6% pay in lieu of vacation and 2.5% pay in lieu of statutory holidays.

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

Successful candidates will be required to submit a satisfactory police information check.