Position Overview
NYL is seeking a candidate with extensive experience in grant writing, program management, and youth work for the position of Project Director. The Project Director is responsible for all aspects of planning, implementing and evaluating NYL’s remote wilderness programming. This includes grant writing and donor stewardship, organizing camp logistics, assessing and managing risk, leading land-based camp activities, maintaining budgets, writing reports, building partnerships, and developing and adapting camp content. The Project Director is also responsible for mentoring and training youth staff through the Leadership Development Program.
The Project Director is answerable to a committed group of volunteer Steering Committee members and works closely with MakeWay Charitable Society to successfully implement and maintain operating, financial and administrative systems, and policies and procedures that support NYL programming.
We recognize that many excellent candidates may not meet every requirement listed below, therefore if you are excited about this position and think you would do a great job and meet many of the requirements, we encourage you to apply! Please note that applicants must be eligible to work in Canada.

Key Responsibility Areas:
Project Management and Administration
Provide strategic leadership for the planning and successful execution of NYL land-based programming including day-to-day operations and program monitoring and evaluation.
Ensure the financial health of the project by implementing a fundraising strategy to secure a strong, diversified and sustainable funding base through grant writing and funder stewardship.
Lead the preparation of the annual budget for Steering Committee and MakeWay approval and prepare regular budget updates.
Financial management including submission of expenses and invoices, review of financial reports and ensuring accurate documentation in line with MakeWay policy and procedures.
Develop and nurture positive working relationships with key stakeholders including program participants, parents, staff, volunteers, partners, community agencies and service providers.
Ensure compliance with all grant agreements and all policies and procedures of MakeWay Charitable Society.
Organize and implement full cycle HR process with employees, contractors and volunteers in accordance with MakeWay HR guidelines, including: recruitment, orientation, training, development, and performance management.
Facilitate access and connect youth with resources at the community, territorial and national level, assist with systems navigation, and advocate for youth.
Represent NYL, with responsibility for implementing effective branding, social media, media relations, and partnerships.
Land-Based Program Implementation
Direct and oversee program preparation including purchasing and packing camp supplies, liaising with participant guardians, and updating risk management documentation.
Supervise youth and deliver camp activities during remote wilderness programming lasting 1-3 weeks in length, often in remote areas.
Recruit and engage Elders and Indigenous Knowledge Holders in traditional cultural programming.
Demonstrate and instruct physical activities including hiking, paddling and swimming.
Assess and manage all risks while on camp including wildlife awareness, participant behaviour, and adverse weather conditions.
Responsible for the health and safety of all campers, volunteers, and staff including their social and emotional well-being.
Understand and implement all NYL policies and procedures and follow all safety guidelines associated with the camp and all program areas.
Direct and oversee the unpacking and cleaning of all supplies and ensuring that the storage unit is organized and easily accessible.

Qualifications:
Education and Experience
3-5 years’ experience managing non-profit projects with annual budgets of at least $300,000.
3-5 years’ experience with grant writing (private, provincial/territorial and federal) and donor stewardship leading to annual revenue generation of at least $300,000.
3-5 years’ experience working with youth from diverse backgrounds.
Bachelor’s degree in non-profit management, social work, child and youth care, outdoor education or other related fields, or equivalent experience.
Experience leading substantial projects and/or other organizations (budgets, strategy, accountability, etc.).
Experience with staff training and performance management.
Experience leading remote land-based activities including multi-day canoe, hiking and land-based camps.
Valid Driver’s License.
Valid Wilderness First Aid or Wilderness First Responder certification.
Ability to provide a criminal record and vulnerable sector check.
Experience working in remote northern communities is a significant asset.
Paddle Canada Lake Canoe Instructor Tandem Certification is an asset.
Paddle Canada Canoe Tripping Instructor Tandem and Solo Certification is an asset.
Mental Health First Aid and ASIST is an asset.

Land-Based Skills and Attributes
Experience with planning, logistics, and camp preparation of extended remote wilderness trips.
Ability to manage other people in a wilderness setting through exceptional skills such as risk management, decision-making, leadership and team building.
Ability to spend days or weeks on the land under unfavourable weather conditions.
Strong paddling skills.
Must have the physical ability to lead and participate in ALL camp activities which include, but are not limited to: outdoor adventure/camping trips lasting 1-3 weeks in duration, full day hikes, and multi-day portage canoeing trips.
Must be capable of lifting/carrying reasonably heavy loads up to a 50lbs (moving equipment when required, carrying First Aid and Emergency Equipment).
Have a good attitude, work ethic and endurance; camp days can be up to 12 hours long.

Program Coordination Skills & Attributes
Passion for working with youth in land-based contexts.
Organized, detail-oriented and efficient, with strong time management and prioritization skills.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Internet applications.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced setting.
Self-starter who takes initiative and can work with minimal supervision.
Strong networking skills.
Willingness to learn and ability to follow direction and structure.
Ability to interact tactfully, respectfully, and non-judgmentally with everyone (colleagues, youth and general public).
Knowledge of Northern social and cultural context.
Strong collaborative leadership and conflict resolution skills.
Ability to act as a positive role model and mentor to youth.
Ability to manage crisis and adverse situations with staff, youth and families.
Working and Living Conditions
Given the nature of the role, at times, this position requires additional working hours that cannot be foreseen or formally outlined. The successful candidate should expect to work some weekends and overtime especially during the summer months.

How to Apply
With “Application for Project Director” in the subject line, please email your resume and cover letter to hr@northernyouth.ca, by Sunday August 23rd, 2020.