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Employment Opportunities

Title: Assistant Coach 2024

Status: Year-Round, Full-time

With the opening of our new club facility, Sackawa’s programs are growing and we are hiring an Assistant Coach to contribute to, and be part of, this exciting growth. 

About Sackawa Canoe Club: 

Sackawa is a non-profit paddling club on First Lake in Lower Sackville. Established in 1980, our club offers youth the opportunity to learn paddle sport in a safe and fun environment. Our goal is to develop world-class paddlers with a healthy, competitive attitude, that will excel in both sport and life. Sackawa aims to impart skills development in a physically demanding sport, within the context of social, relaxed and fun activities. Athletes are encouraged to build skills to compete in local, national, and even international competitions. Many of Sackawa’s High Performance athletes have represented Nova Scotia at the Canada Games, and represented Canada at junior and senior world events. 

Position Summary: 

The Assistant Coach is a year-round, full-time position which supports the club at all levels of programming and coaching. Collaborating with the Head Coach and Commodore, the Assistant Coach will assist in determining programming for all groups including, but not limited to, High Performance year-round training, youth summer programs, off-season developmental programming, and Masters’ Programs. The Assistant Coach will be a strong, inspiring leader and mentor, who will guide seasonal youth coaches, recognize potential and use their talents to support the growth and development of our athletes as they discover and shape their own potential. 

Responsibilities include: 

  • Working with the Head Coach to reinforce the objectives, philosophies and strategies developed by our Board of Directors and our Head Coach 

  • Coaching various levels including Developmental, Bridge, High Performance, and Masters’ including on water, dryland and weight room 

  • Collaborating with the Head Coach to develop and administer consistent training plans and programming, and create coaching schedules 

  • Supporting the summer coaching team through mentorship, guidance, training, and leadership

  • Monitoring and evaluating athlete and team performance 

  • Providing feedback/corrections/assessments for program participants 

  • Recruiting athletes to our high performance program 

  • Completing regatta entries and ensuring Sackawa athletes are entered into regatta events

  • Effectively communicating practice and competition plans to parents and athletes 

  • Attending all regattas 

  • Monitoring and ensuring the correct use and care of all training equipment and facility, with safe practices and maintenance 

  • Collaborating with ADCKC Sport Excellence Lead, regional coaches, IGNITE coach, and CKC coaches to seek out opportunities for athlete development 

  • Assuming the duties of the Head Coach when needed 

  • Attending athlete/staff/board meetings as required 

  • Other duties as they arise

Expectations: 

  • Average work week of 40 hours, although it is understood the hours of work for the position will vary depending on the time of year. More hours will be required in the peak season of July and August and fewer hours will be required during the off-season 

  • Increased presence in the summer will be required in order to provide oversight for the competitive season and summer programming 

  • Hours will vary and will include early morning, daytime and evening 

  • Attendance is mandatory at regattas, when Sackawa athletes are participating 

  • Follow, model and ensure compliance with, but not limited to, all CKC policies, including the Safe Sport policy, all ADCKC policies, including Cold Water policy, all Sackawa Canoe Club by-laws and policies, and Sackawa Canoe Club Board of Directors requirements 

Qualifications: 

  • Minimum two years of experience coaching sprint canoe/kayak and demonstrated understanding of paddling technique and sportsmanship values 

  • Previous experience working with/coaching young children and demonstrated ability to develop youth athletic programs 

  • Ability to mentor and be a role model to other coaches and athletes 

  • Demonstrated understanding of the club environment which includes athleticism, fun, family, safety, sport, and competition 

  • Ability to balance needs of high-performance athletes with recreational paddlers and children who are new to the sport 

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills 

  • Ability to resolve conflict 

  • Knowledge of ADCKC and CKC Policies 

  • Familiarity with the Sackawa Canoe Club Canoe/Kayak Sprint Racing Handbook 

  • Criminal Record Check/Vulnerable Sector Check is required prior to commencing employment

  • ELCC Coaching Certification is required 

  • Competition Development Certification is desired (or willingness to work toward obtaining)

  • Canadian Coast Guard Pleasure Craft Operators Certificate 

  • First Aid & CPR certification (or willingness to certify) 

Remuneration: 

  • Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience ($40-$50K annually)

  • Full-time (35 to 40 hours per week)

  • Benefits include health and paid vacation 

Interested candidates should apply with a cover letter and resume to Tyler Laidlaw, Commodore, at jobs@sackawa.ca

Sackawa Canoe Club is committed to employment equity and encourages applications from diverse communities, including: Indigenous people, racialized people, persons with disabilities, members of the queer community, lesbian, gay, bisexual, two-spirit, or transgender people and women.

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Paddling Coach - Sackawa Canoe Club 

Under the general supervision of the Head Coach, Paddling Coaches are responsible for the day to day progress, encouragement, supervision, and growth of paddlers. Sackawa coaches play an integral role in the development of young children and athletes by demonstrating a strong commitment to health and physical activity, and by creating an environment of pride at Sackawa. Coaches also work as part of a broader team with other summer staff and volunteers. 

Start Date: June 26, 2024 (9-week term) 
Compensation: $16-18/hour (depending on experience) 
Hours: 35 hours per week 
Application Deadline: Apply with cover letter and resume to jobs@sackawa.ca, by April 12th, 2024

Job Duties: 

 

  • Organize, plan and conduct individual and team practices, training camps and competitions ● Prepare the individual training plans for athletes 

  • Communicate with parents and athletes on a weekly basis 

  • Select crews 

  • Load boat trailer 

  • Find a volunteer parent to tow the trailer 

  • Submit regatta entries/forms 

  • Represent the club (at the club, at regattas and throughout the community) 

  • Keep the club safe and tidy 

  • Supervise the paddlers during lunch 

  • Ensure end of day clean-up duties are completed including picking up garbage, clothing and paddling gear Qualifications: 

  • Must have previous experience working with/coaching young children and the ability to develop youth athletic programs 

  • Must have experience in the sport of sprint canoe/kayak and demonstrate an understanding of paddling technique and sportsmanship values 

  • Ability to mentor and be a role model to Junior Coaches and athletes 

  • Demonstrate an understanding of the club environment which includes athleticism, fun, family, safety, sport, and competition 

  • Ability to balance the needs of high-performance athletes with recreational paddlers and children who are new to the sport 

  • Excellent leadership ability 

  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills 

  • Ability to resolve conflict 

  • CanoeKids Certification (minimum) is required prior to commencing employment 

  • First Aid Certification is required before commencing work 

  • Pleasure Craft Operator License 

  • Knowledge of ADCKC and CKC Policies 

  • Familiarity with the Sackawa Canoe Club Canoe/Kayak Sprint Racing Handbook 

  • Criminal background and vulnerable sector check is required prior to commencing employment 

Reporting Structure: 

Reports directly to Sackawa Head Coach
 

Sackawa Canoe Club is committed to employment equity and encourages applications from diverse communities, including: Indigenous people, racialized people, persons with disabilities, members of the queer community, lesbian, gay, bisexual, two-spirit, or transgender people and women.

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Day Camp Counsellor - Sackawa Canoe Club

 
Counsellors are invaluable staff members who spend full days with one age group of day campers. They are role models who assist and motivate campers through the challenging moments of learning new skills and guide them toward reaching their goals. Throughout the day, counsellors monitor and participate in activities with the group such as beach volleyball, soccer, running, and scavenger hunts. They do everything in their power to make sure each camper has the most memorable summer yet. Counsellors are responsible for creating communities within their groups that are fun, as well as emotionally and physically safe. Counsellors must be fun-loving, patient and genuinely concerned for the welfare and development of young people. Sackawa Camp counsellors take turns administering Sackawa’s Early Drop-off & Late Pick-up program. As part of this program, camp counsellors will be the first people at the club in the mornings and the last people to leave at the end of the day. They are required to be on time to open the club and greet the children and parents when they arrive. They are required to maintain accurate records of attendance and are responsible for instructing campers to neatly store their belongings and get ready for the day and organize and clean up at the end of the day. They are responsible for organizing small group activities that will engage and entertain the children until regular camp activities begin and until parents arrive at the end of the day. A large number of children in our summer programs participate in the Early Drop-off & Late Pick-up program.

 
Start Date: June 26, 2024 (9-week term) 
Compensation: $15-$17/hour (depending on experience) 
Hours: 35 hours per week 
Application Deadline: Apply with cover letter and resume to jobs@sackawa.ca, by April 12th, 2024

Job Duties: 

  • Administer the Early Drop-off & Late Pick-up program 

  • Open the club and greet parents and children upon their arrival 

  • Maintain accurate daily attendance records 

  • Communicate with parents and campers on a daily basis 

  • Design curriculum for campers age 7 to 15 

  • Monitor and participate in activities with the campers 

  • Supervise campers during lunch breaks 

  • Ensure belongings are organized at the start of day and organize and ensure clean up at end of day Qualifications: 

  • Must have previous experience working with/coaching young children 

  • Demonstrate an understanding of paddling technique and sportsmanship values 

  • Ability to mentor and to be a role model to athletes 

  • Demonstrate an understanding of the club environment which includes athleticism, fun, family, safety, sport, and competition 

  • Excellent leadership ability 

  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills 

  • Ability to resolve conflict 

  • CanoeKids Certification (minimum) is required prior to commencing employment 

  • First Aid Certification (asset) is required prior to commencing employment 

  • Pleasure Craft Operator License 

  • Knowledge of ADCKC and CKC Policies required prior to commencing employment 

  • Familiarity with the Sackawa Canoe Club Canoe/Kayak Sprint Racing Handbook 

  • Criminal background and vulnerable sector check is required prior to commencing employment 

Reporting Structure: 

Reports directly to Sackawa Head Coach 

Sackawa Canoe Club is committed to employment equity and encourages applications from diverse communities, including: Indigenous people, racialized people, persons with disabilities, members of the queer community, lesbian, gay, bisexual, two-spirit, or transgender people and women.
 

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PaddleAll Program Facilitator - Sackawa Canoe Club 

The Summer Paddle Ability Program provides children and youth living with a disability the opportunity to enjoy safe and fun experiences on the water, where they will get a chance to learn and love the sport of paddling. The PaddleAll Program Facilitator is responsible for coordinating and scheduling paddling sessions, marketing and promoting the program, recruiting volunteers, and record keeping. The Paddle Ability program is unique from other sporting programs because it incorporates a new type of physical activity that allows a greater degree of freedom and self-confidence, maybe not experienced in day-to-day life. As they learn how to balance and improve their capabilities to paddle in their own kayak, in charge of their own speed and direction, they learn more than just paddling basics. They gain self-confidence and pride. 

 

NOTE: You must be a post-secondary student in Fall 2024 to be considered for this position. 

 

Start Date: June 17, 2024 (10-week term) 

Compensation: $16.50/hour 

Hours: 35 hours per week 

Application Deadline: Apply with cover letter and resume to jobs@sackawa.ca, by April 12th, 2024

Job Duties: 

  • Design the Paddle Ability program in coordination with Sackawa's Head Coach 

  • Market and Promote the program in our community 

  • Recruit participants and volunteers to the program 

  • Deliver the Paddle Ability program 3 times a week (Paddling knowledge and Lifeguarding is not necessary but is an asset) 

  • Provide an engaging, interactive, safe and fun atmosphere for participants 

  • Speak to local businesses about the needs of the program in search of possible donations ● Maintain communication with families and program support services 

  • Budgeting, record keeping, incident reporting, report writing 

Qualifications: 

  • Must be a post-secondary student in Fall 2024 

  • Working toward a degree or diploma in Kinesiology, Education, Recreational Therapy, or related disciplines ● First Aid & CPR Certification prior to commencing employment is considered an asset 

  • Experience working with children and youth with disabilities 

  • Effective written and verbal communication 

  • Problem solving, time management and organizational skills 

  • Must be able to demonstrate an understanding of paddling technique and sportsmanship values ● Criminal background and vulnerable sector check is required prior to commencing employment 

Reporting Structure: 

Reports directly to Sackawa Head Coach 

Sackawa Canoe Club is committed to employment equity and encourages applications from diverse communities, including: Indigenous people, racialized people, persons with disabilities, members of the queer community, lesbian, gay, bisexual, two-spirit, or transgender people and women.

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Summer Camp Steward - Sackawa Canoe Club 
 

The Summer Camp Steward contributes to a successful summer program at Sackawa Canoe Club by taking primary responsibility for ensuring the good state, maintenance and hygienic conditions of Sackawa’s grounds and the building. The Summer Camp Steward will also be responsible to maintain a safe, professional, quality, efficient, and profitable camp canteen operation. 
 

NOTE: You must be a post-secondary student in Fall 2024 to be considered for this position. 
 

Start Date: June 17, 2024 (10-week term) 
Compensation: $19/hour 
Hours: 35 hours per week 
Application Deadline: Apply with cover letter and resume to jobs@sackawa.ca, by April 12th, 2024

Job Duties: 
 

  • Setup and prepare food for a daily 2-hour lunch shift. 

  • Process orders and serve food and beverage items to customers. 

  • Maintain a consistent high level of customer service. 

  • Resolve customer complaints in a timely and professional manner. 

  • Responsible for inventory control, sales transactions, cooking, and serving. 

  • Responsible for accurate sales records and daily accounting closing activities. Cash out and reconcile cash with total sales. 

  • Oversee the cleanliness of the outside dining area. Sweep and clean the serving area floors and countertops. Clean and arrange tables and chairs. Empty garbage cans. 

  • Maintain the cleanliness and daily cleanup of the kitchen, serving area, seating area, and equipment. Perform a deep clean of the kitchen mid-season and at the end of the summer. 

  • Monitor food and supply inventory and inform Club Manager when quantities are low. 

  • Care for restrooms by sanitizing and cleaning toilets and sinks, replacing tissue, hand soap and other supplies.

  • Clean and sanitize door handles and gym equipment. 

  • Clean club floors and windows throughout the day and at the end of the day after campers have left for the day.

  • Also responsible for grounds garbage cleanup, general landscaping and lawn mowing.

Qualifications: 

  • Must be a post-secondary student in Fall 2024 

  • Problem solving, time management and organizational skills 

  • Demonstrated leadership ability 

  • Excellent customer service skills 

  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills 

  • Ability to resolve conflict 

  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team 

  • First Aid Certification considered an asset 

  • Food Handler Certification 

  • Criminal background and vulnerable sector check is required prior to commencing employment 
     

Reporting Structure: 
 

Reports directly to Sackawa Club Manager 
 

Sackawa Canoe Club is committed to employment equity and encourages applications from diverse communities, including: Indigenous people, racialized people, persons with disabilities, members of the queer community, lesbian, gay, bisexual, two-spirit, or transgender people and women.

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Lifeguard - Sackawa Canoe Club

 
Under the general supervision of the Head Coach, Sackawa Lifeguards are responsible for assisting the Summer Coaches and Counsellors with water training, swimming exercises, boat safety operations, swimming lessons, and other lifeguard duties. Lifeguards will maintain concentrated observation of all youth under their supervision in order to anticipate potential problems, spot hazards and prevent accidents. Lifeguards will give advice on water safety, control unruly behaviour, enforce all safety rules in a professional manner, and will complete water rescue and be required to administer first aid, including CPR, if necessary. 
 

Start Date: June 26, 2024 (9-week term) 
Compensation: $17/hour 
Hours: 35 hours per week 
Application Deadline: Apply with cover letter and resume to jobs@sackawa.ca, by April 12th, 2024

Job Duties: 
 

  • Assist with water training, swimming exercises, boat safety operations, and swimming lessons ● Observe all youth under their supervision, anticipate potential problems, spot hazards, and prevent accidents ● Give advice on water safety 

  • Control unruly behaviour 

  • Enforce all safety rules 

  • Complete water rescue 

  • Administer first aid, including CPR, if necessary 

Qualifications: 

  • Valid First Aid and CPR Certificate 

  • Pleasure Craft Operator’s Card 

  • Certified by the Life Saving Society of Canada (preferred) 

  • Must have previous experience working with/coaching young children 

  • Ability to mentor and be a role model for athletes 

  • Demonstrate an understanding of the club environment, which includes athleticism, fun, family, safety, sport, and competition 

  • Excellent leadership ability 

  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills 

  • Ability to resolve conflict 

  • Must be able to demonstrate an understanding of paddling technique and sportsmanship values ● CanoeKids Certification considered an asset 

  • Knowledge of ADCKC and CKC Policies required prior to commencing employment 

  • Familiarity with the Sackawa Canoe Club Canoe/Kayak Sprint Racing Handbook prior to commencing ● Criminal background and vulnerable sector check is required prior to commencing employment 
     

Reporting Structure: 
 

Reports directly to Sackawa Head Coach 
 

Sackawa Canoe Club is committed to employment equity and encourages applications from diverse communities, including: Indigenous people, racialized people, persons with disabilities, members of the queer community, lesbian, gay, bisexual, two-spirit, or transgender people and women.

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