Read the job descriptions below for the available positions for Summer 2026.
Prepare a resume and cover letter addressed to:
Christine Davis and Meghan Finkle
CCA Recreation Program Directors
Cognashene, Georgian Bay
Gather TWO references. (please do not use family or friends)
Complete the Online Application Form (will ask you to upload your resume and cover letter here).
ONLINE APPLICATION FORM:
Monitor email regularly for interview information. Interviews will occur virtually.
Application Process Opens: Thursday Dec 18th, 2025
Application Process Closes: Thursday January 8th, 2026
Interviews are expected to occur in the Feb 1-Feb 14th, 2026.
Notes for all interested staff:
All positions with the exception for Assistant Instructors require access to a boat for the transportation of campers for Y.P.O.C. as part of the job.
All staff are expected to attend a virtual orientation and training in May/June
All staff are expected to attend the Beach Clean Up (if in the Cognashene area at the time)
All staff are expected to attend weekly debrief/staff meetings on Friday after swimming.
The Head of Program will work closely with the Recreation Program Director to plan, prepare, and run the Cognashene Summer Recreation Program. This experienced individual should have strong leadership and collaboration skills. This position requires availability and planning in May and June as well as availability for the full 8 weeks during July and August. They should understand how to communicate effectively with a variety of individuals (parents, campers, staff). They will need strong organizational skills and a positive attitude to manage their team effectively.
In addition to being a fully certified lifeguard and swim instructor the head of program will design and develop the programming for the summer in collaboration with the Swimming Lead and Watersports Lead.
The Swimming Lead will work closely with the Head of Program to run the Swim Programs in the Summer Recreation Program. This individual should have strong communication, organizational and leadership skills. They will be responsible for mentoring other instructors and assistant instructors in creating lesson plans and progressions for their swimming levels. They may also be called upon to help place campers in the correct level based on their swimming ability.
Some planning in the month of June will be required.
The Watersports Lead will work closely with the Head of Program to run the Watersports and Boating Programs in the Summer Recreation Program. This individual should have strong communication, organizational and leadership skills. They will be responsible for mentoring other instructors and assistant instructors in creating lesson plans and programming as it relates to sailing, canoeing, kayaking and other water-based activities. They will take a primary role in planning for Sailing, Boating and canoe trips. The Watersports Lead will work closely with the Head of Program.
Some planning in the month of June will be required.
Instructors are qualified lifeguards and swim instructors. They will work as part of a team to teach swimming lessons and run programming for the Summer Recreation Program. Candidates should enjoy working with children, have strong communication skills and have a positive attitude.
Assistant Instructors have earned some high level swimming certifications and have basic first aid training but are not yet old enough to move on to earn their NLS or Instructors. Assistant Instructors will work alongside the Head of Program and Instructors to teach swimming lessons and run programming for all campers.
Recreation Program Mission:
to provide a safe, fun and educational experience;
to foster a strong sense of community and environmental awareness in Cognashene;
to develop skills and teamwork;
to provide a safe and social environment;
to offer fun and memorable experiences;
to develop some essential cottaging skills for a water-based community.
Core Values & Team Norms:
Leadership
Accountability
Communication
Problem solving & adaptability
Positive attitude
Initiative