Job Description:
Operations Manager
Kinark Outdoor Centre (KOC)
Minden, Ontario
About Kinark Outdoor Centre
Kinark Outdoor Centre (KOC) is part of Kinark Child and Family Services and provides high‑quality outdoor, experiential, and adventure‑based programming for children, youth, families, schools, and partner organizations. Our site supports diverse populations, including children and youth with complex needs, through intentional programming delivered in a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment.
Position Summary
Reporting to the Program Director, the Operations Manager plays a critical leadership role at Kinark Outdoor Centre by ensuring the effective integration of facility operations, maintenance, risk management, and program readiness. This role works closely with program staff, maintenance, kitchen, and external partners to support safe, compliant, and high‑quality service delivery across all site operations.
The Operations Manager provides direct supervision to operational staff, contributes to program development and outcome measurement, and supports a culture of safety, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Salary: $65,000-$70000 CAD per year. Compensation is negotiable and will be determined based on the successful candidate’s experience, skills, and qualifications.
Key Responsibilities
Operations, Facilities & Risk Management
- Oversee day‑to‑day site operations to ensure readiness, cleanliness, and safety
- Maintain oversight of preventive maintenance schedules, cabin turnover, and water systems
- Ensure compliance with Ontario Camping Association (OCA) accreditation standards and relevant legislation
- Participate in and contribute to the Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC)
- Identify, document, and mitigate operational hazards and risks related to facilities and programming
Leadership & People Management
- Provide direct supervision, coaching, and performance management to operational staff, including Maintenance and Housekeeping roles
- Support training, onboarding, and readiness of staff for program delivery, particularly in high‑risk activity areas
- Foster a positive, collaborative, and accountable team culture
Program & Service Support
- Partner with the Program Director and program team to support program development, readiness, and outcome measurement
- Contribute to training and operational readiness for waterfront and high ropes programming
- Support staff in responding to the needs of diverse and high‑needs client groups
Stakeholder & Partner Relations
- Maintain strong working relationships with key external partners (e.g., food service providers, Outward Bound Canada)
- Proactively anticipate and respond to stakeholder needs
- Support collaborative program design and delivery with external organizations
Administration & Systems
- Utilize internal systems (e.g., CampBrain) to support scheduling, staffing, attendance, and client management
- Contribute to purchasing decisions and operational planning within approved budgets
Education & Experience
- Minimum 1–5 years of relevant experience in operations, outdoor recreation, camp management, or related fields
- University degree in a relevant discipline or equivalent education and experience
- Experience working with children and youth, including those with complex or high needs, is required
Technical Skills & Knowledge
- Knowledge of outdoor program delivery, facilitation, and risk management
- Familiarity with OCA standards and challenge course best practices
- Experience with small drinking water systems and regulatory requirements
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and web‑based administrative tools
- Strong organizational, analytical, and problem‑solving skills
Certifications (Required / Preferred)
- Standard First Aid & CPR‑C
- Small Drinking Water Systems – Trained Personnel
- One or more of the following (required or obtained within a reasonable timeframe):
- National Lifeguard Service (NLS)
- High Ropes / Challenge Course Management
- Behaviour Management or Crisis Intervention certification (e.g., UMAB, SMG, CPI) preferred
- Chainsaw safety and additional outdoor technical certifications considered an asset
Working Conditions
- Combination of office‑based and outdoor field work
- Regular physical activity including walking uneven terrain, lifting equipment, climbing ladders, and facilitating outdoor activities
- Seasonal variability in workload and environment (April–November peak season)
- Occasional exposure to challenging behaviours and unpredictable environments
Why Work at KOC?
- Meaningful work supporting children, youth, and families
- Collaborative and mission‑driven team environment
- Opportunity to lead, influence, and improve outdoor program delivery
- Dynamic role blending leadership, operations, and outdoor work
