Recreation Job Opportunities | City of Hamilton

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Recreation Positions

Looking for a job with Recreation?

Recruitment for various positions takes place throughout the year.

Need a Standard First Aid with CPR-C qualification?

Sign-up for courses at www.hamilton.ca/recleaders

There are many different job opportunities in recreation. Descriptions of each job and the qualifications are listed. All required qualifications must be clearly identified on your resume and must be for the entire employment period.

Current Opportunities

Golf Course Positions

Program Instructors

Aquatic Positions

Arena Positions

Program/Facility Support

Administrative Support

Summer Student Positions

Fitness Instructor 1 (55+ Fitness)

Job Opening:30276
Application Deadline: Continuous Recruit

Fitness Instructor 2 (Water Fitness)

Job Opening: 30277
Application Deadline: Continuous Recruit

Cook

Responsible for preparation of food and beverage requirements for daily operations, special events and catered functions as directed by the Chief Cook. Opens and closes kitchen as required. Organizes and prepares menus and food items on a daily basis as directed by the Chief Cook. Cleans and maintains kitchen and surrounding area as required.

Previous knowledge and skill in preparing food and beverage requirements for daily food operation, special functions and catered events.
Demonstrated progressive experience in a commercial food service kitchen.
Must possess or be able to obtain Food Handlers Certificate as offered by the Public Health Department within 30 days of employment.
Demonstrated ability to deal with customer requests for service and assistance and respond promptly to customer needs.
Ability to maintain kitchen and preparation area in accordance with Departmental Policies and Procedures, Food Services Operational Manual, Food Premises and Regulation Act 589 and all City of Hamilton Occupational Health and safety requirements.
Experience in the use of all major restaurant equipment
First Aid Certification would be an asset

Golf Shop Attendant

Responsible for delivering outstanding customer service and handling the day-to-day co-ordination of golf course patrons and retail sales of golf related products. Ability to maintain and control detailed golf related records as necessary.

Previous golf experience related to duties listed above.
Demonstrated experience assisting with golf programs.
Good interpersonal and communication skills.
High degree of customer service skills and self-motivation.
Demonstrated ability to deal with customer requests for service and respond promptly to customer needs.
Must be a results-oriented individual with a commitment to customer service and team building.
Experience in the use of computers. Working knowledge of Word, Excel, retail point of sale software and database software at a basic level.
Demonstrated ability in cash handling and reconciliation.
Demonstrated ability to maintain files and records.
Must possess and maintain a valid Class “G” Driver’s Licence.
Membership with the Canadian Professional Golfer's Association would be considered an asset.
High Five Training would be an asset.
First Aid Certification would be an asset.

Server

Provides quick and courteous service, maintains cleanliness standards at King’s Forest golf course. Ensure continuous high customer service standards, re-stocking of inventory, operation of beverage carts, restaurant service and halfway house operations.

Must have demonstrated experience in a customer service position within the restaurant, hospitality and/or retail environment. Previous experience serving in a food and beverage setting preferred.
Demonstrated experience working with cash handling and balancing cash transactions. Working knowledge of Point-of-Sale system.
Must possess already or be able to obtain a Smart Serve Certificate within 30 days of employment. Preference will be given to applicants currently possessing Smart Serve certification.
Must have excellent communication skills and a positive demeanor. Demonstrated ability to deal with customer requests for service and respond promptly to customer needs.
Must possess and maintain current certification in “Standard” First Aid with CPR Level “C”. (This must be clearly identified on your resume.) All “Standard” First Aid certificates must be issued by a training agency recognized by the Workplace Safety Insurance Board (WSIB). Please refer to the WSIB website www.wsib.on.ca for approved providers. At time of assessment (which could be as early as days after the posting closes), you will be asked to provide “proof” that you possess the required certificate(s).
High Five training would be considered an asset.

Grass Cutter

Performs grass cutting duties at either one of the City owned and operated golf courses. Operates handheld tools such as leaf blowers, weed eaters, push mowers, and water hoses. Assists with set up procedures for golf courses as required.

Previous experience related to duties listed above normally acquired through a combination of education and relevant work experience operating similar vehicles and tools.
Must possess a Class "G" Driver’s Licence.
Demonstrated experience in golf course maintenance and/or landscaping required.
Working knowledge of and ability to operate hand and power tools and equipment in a safe manner.
Knowledge and understanding of the game of golf considered an asset.
Must possess and maintain current certification in “Standard” First Aid with CPR Level “C”. (This must be clearly identified on your resume.) All “Standard” First Aid certificates must be issued by a training agency recognized by the Workplace Safety Insurance Board (WSIB). Please refer to the WSIB website www.wsib.on.ca for approved providers. At time of assessment (which could be as early as days after the posting closes), you will be asked to provide “proof” that you possess the required certificate(s).
High Five Training would be an asset.

Fitness Instructor 1

Leading group fitness classes (land and aquatics) for participants registered in recreation centre programs. Level I instructor specialties: yoga, pilates, senior fitness, aqua cycling

Current Fitness Certification (Personal Training (PTS), Group Fitness Instructor (FIS), CALA) AND Additional Specialized Certifications (Aqua Spin, certifications)
Current Fitness Certification (Senior Fitness Instructor Certification (SFIC), Yoga RYT200, Pilates Instructor Certification)
Proven knowledge of the theories and practices associated with the teaching of skills, technique and equipment used in fitness programs and according to the best practices and standards of their governing body.
Must possess current Standard First Aid with CPR C Certification.
Instructional/program delivery experience in fitness or a related field considered an asset.
HIGH FIVE Training an asset.
Must possess initiative and good judgment and be able to work independently.
Must have the ability to work with varied age groups.
Must be physically capable to demonstrate program techniques to the public in specified program area.
Must be prepared to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends at various locations.

Fitness Instructor 2

Leading group fitness classes (land and aquatics) for participants registered in recreation centre programs. Level II instructor specialties: cardio and strength training classes, water fit, strollerfit

Application period: Now Open

Current Fitness Certification (Personal Training (PTS), Group Fitness Instructor (FIS), as required by the discipline to be instructed or Current Water Fitness Certification (CALA, WaterART or similar)
Must possess current Standard First Aid with CPR C Certification.
Proven knowledge of the theories and practices associated with the teaching of skills, technique and equipment used in fitness programs and according to the best practices and standards of their governing body.
Instructional/program delivery experience in fitness or a related field considered an asset.
HIGH FIVE Training an asset.
Must possess initiative and good judgment and be able to work independently.
Must have the ability to work with varied age groups.
Must be physically capable to demonstrate program techniques to the public in specified program area.
Must be prepared to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends at various locations.

Aquatic Leadership Instructor /Trainer

Instructing and examining Lifesaving Society certification programs.

Current/Certified Advanced Instructor/Examiner Status specific to course being taught such as. Lifesaving Society, Red Cross, Canadian Amatuere Diving Association, Synchro Ontario, Water Art/CALA.
Current Standard First Aid and CPRC
Good communication and interpersonal skills.
Preferred National Lifeguard Certification

Advanced Skilled Instructor

Plan and deliver programs for children and adults utilizing your unique talents and passions for dance, drawing, cheer/gymnastics, preschool and music.

Must be at least 14 years of age at the time of application.
Must possess at the time of application and noted clearly on resume Standard First Aid with CPR level C (WSIB approved provider).
Minimum of 3 years experience (instructing or participating) in the related field.
Proven knowledge of the theories and practice associated with the teaching of skills for the program disciplines normally acquired by a combination of education and relevant work experience.
Hold and maintain relevant certification and qualifications applicable to your discipline.
HIGH Five Principles of Healthy Child Development (PHCD) and National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) Level 1 Coaching considered an asset.

Lifeguard 1

Administers, teaches, and provides aquatic instruction and lifeguarding in accordance with City Policy and Procedure Manual, Occupational Health and Safety Act and WHMIS Regulation, Health Protection and Promotion Act - Regulation 565-90 and in the absence of the Aquatics Supervisor, responsible for the safe, organized operation of the pool and aquatic programs and part-time staff.

Previous lifeguarding experience including knowledge of water hazards, lifesaving techniques and ability to recognize hazardous situations.
Holds and maintains current certifications:
- - National Lifeguard – Pool
  - Lifesaving Instructor and Swim Instructor
  - Standard First Aid with CPR-C
  - Lifesaving Standard First Aid Instructor
  - National Lifeguard Instructor
  - Aquatic Supervisor Training
Effective communication skills and the ability to engage positively with the public.
Ability to follow routine verbal and written instructions.
Ability to prepare and complete routine administrative paperwork.
Knowledge of customer service standards and procedures.
Ability to react calmly and effectively in emergency situations.
PHCD and Quest 2 certification considered an asset.

Instructor Guard

Responsible for the supervision of pools and instructing swim lesson programs.

Hold and maintain current certifications:
- National Lifeguard – Pool
- Lifesaving Society Instructor and Swim Instructor
- Standard First Aid with CPR – C

Duty Guard

Responsible for building/pool oversight and supervision in the absence of full time staff.

Hold and maintain current certifications:
- National Lifeguard – Pool
- Lifesaving Society Instructor and Swim Instructor
- Standard First Aid with CPR – C
- Aquatic Supervisor
Demonstrated experience in an aquatic environment.
Holds at least one current advanced aquatics or specialized aquatics certification would be an asset.
Knowledge of lifesaving methods and procedures, including first aid and standard resuscitation measures. Must be able to recognize hazardous situations and adopt effective courses of action.
Good communication and interpersonal skills.

Assistant Operator - Part Time

Responsible for Arena building oversight, supervision and maintaining the cleanliness of the facility. Operates the ice-resurfacer, monitors the ice plant, and completes various log entries as required.

Previous cleaning and building maintenance experience working in an arena or similar facility normally acquired by a combination of education and relevant work experience.
Demonstrated experience with ice re-surfacing equipment preferred.
Previous experience completing logbooks.
Knowledge of refrigeration plant preferred.
Good customer service and public relations skills essential.
Must possess and maintain valid Standard First Aid & CPR-C certification from valid WSIB approved provider.
Must possess a valid Class “G” Driver’s License.

Arena Clerk - Part Time

Responsible for providing concession and cashier services, maintaining cleanliness, inventory maintenance and customer service at arena facilities.

Previous food service or concession experience related to duties listed above normally acquired by a combination of education and relevant work experience.
Above average interpersonal, communication and customer service skills required.
Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Word and Excel software.
Must be able to read and write English and perform basic math.
Working knowledge of database software systems would be an asset.
Previous cash handling and balancing experience.
Working knowledge of inventory controls, wastage and stock rotation.
Sufficient strength and ability to lift and move heavy cases and boxes up to 22lbs. Opens and closes shutters and locks.
Current and ability to maintain Food Handlers Certificate.
Must possess and maintain current certification in Standard First Aid with CPR Level C (WSIB approved provider).
Available to work rotating shifts including days, evenings, weekend and holidays.

Skate/Arena Monitor

Responsible for patrolling Open Skates and assist with maintaining cleanliness of the facility.

Must be at least fourteen (14) years of age at time of application. The minimum age requirement is set under the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) according to the Regulation for Industrial Establishments (R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 851).
Previous experience related to duties listed above.
Previous ice skating experience.
Good communication and interpersonal skills.
Must be available to work days, evenings, weekends and holidays during a seven-day week operation.
Must possess and maintain current certification in Standard First Aid with CPR Level C (WSIB approved provider)

Note: As a condition of employment, the successful applicant(s) will be required to obtain a Vulnerable Sector (VS) Check or for those under the age of eighteen (18) a Criminal Record & Judicial Matter (CRJM) Check, at their own expense, prior to beginning work in this position.

District Support Clerk

Provides clerical support to the Manager and staff for the daily operations of recreation facilities and service desks within an assigned district/portfolio.

Previous business office experience normally acquired through a combination of secretarial and administrative courses and relevant work experience. Experience in related recreation work environment preferred.
Demonstrated practical knowledge and skill relating to the management of an office environment. Must have good knowledge of business English and office procedures.
Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team demonstrating strong time management and organizational skills. Must possess the ability to manage competing priorities and timelines.
Possesses excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to clarify City procedures and policies to the public.
Must have a demonstrated proficiency in the use and knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and database software such as Legend.
Knowledge and experience working with PeopleSoft is a definite asset.
Ability to input data accurately at an acceptable speed (i.e. 50 wpm).
Must be able to read and write English and perform simple arithmetic and fill in simple reports/logs. Ability to use decimals and fractions.
Must possess excellent interpersonal, communication and customer service skills and the ability to relate to staff, peers and the general public with tact and professionalism. Ability to recognize the value of extraordinary customer service.
Ability to input, retrieve and compile financial and statistical data for further analysis using appropriate software systems (Excel, PeopleSoft, Word reports).
Demonstrated ability to balance financial transactions in a deadline-oriented environment.
Must be able to communicate effectively in both written and verbal form.
Must be flexible in work schedules and available to work rotating shifts such as days, evenings, weekends and holidays as required.
Current and maintain Standard First Aid with CPR-C.
Must have a valid class “G” Driver’s Licence.

Program and Facility Monitor

Deliver programs for children utilizing program plans, and passions for grassroots programming: sports, arts and crafts, after school program, camps and specials.

Must be at least 14 years of age at the time of application.
Must possess and maintain current certification in Standard First Aid with CPR Level C (WSIB approved provider).
Previous playing or coaching experience in one or more sport or recreation related disciplines considered an asset.
HIGH Five Principles of Healthy Child Development (PHCD) and National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) Level 1 Coaching considered an asset.

Recreation Assistant - Part Time

Responsible for building oversight and supervision in the absence of full time staff.

Must possess and maintain current certification in Standard First Aid with CPR Level C (WSIB approved provider).
Previous playing or coaching experience in one or more sport or recreation related disciplines considered an asset.
HIGH Five Principles of Healthy Child Development (PHCD) and National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) Level 1 Coaching considered an asset.

Recreation Coordinator

Responsible for the implementation, administration, and instruction of recreational programmes within designated program areas for a community. Co-ordinates seasonal and year round programme and are responsible for overseeing and training of part-time staff and volunteers.

Experience related to planning, co-ordinating and implementing leisure, team and recreational programs and activities. Demonstrate and teach recreational activities, experience leading part time/ temporary staff and volunteers and evaluate and promote programs and activities.
Must possess and maintain current certification in Standard First Aid with CPR Level C (WSIB approved provider)
Must have a valid Class “G” Driver’s Licence and provision of a vehicle for use on the job.
High Five Training is an asset.
Ability to communicate in multiple languages is an asset.
Must be able to work days, evening and weekend shifts.

Chief Cook – Sport Services

Responsible for providing high quality food and beverage services related to sport activities and sport related special events in accordance with Provincial and local standards and within budgetary guidelines.

Previous cooking experience normally acquired through a combination of food services courses and relevant work experience.
Previous experience in food preparation, catering and baking is essential.
Knowledge of Health Protection and Promotion Act as it relates to Provincial Food Premises Regulations, Liquor Licence Laws, City of Hamilton Health By-Law and Occupational Health and Safety Act.
Demonstrated knowledge of the Health and Safety Act and applicable regulations as it relates to the position.
Good interpersonal and communication skills.
Must be flexible in working schedule and independently in a team setting.
Must have Food Handlers certificate.
Smart Serve certificate with experience with alcohol sales related experience is preferred.

Receptionist – Part time

Responsible for providing cashier services, sales support, program support and reception at recreation, senior’s recreation facilities or service counters. Acts as a resource person for the public.

Must possess and maintain current certification in Standard First Aid with CPR Level C (WSIB approved provider).
Cash handling and office experience and working knowledge of Microsoft Office including Word and Excel.

Senior Receptionist

Responsible for cashier services, sales support for drop-in clients, program administrative support and customer service at recreation and senior’s recreation facilities by phone and by email. Acts as a resource person for the public.

Must possess and maintain current certification in Standard First Aid with CPR Level C (WSIB approved provider).
Cash handling and office experience and working knowledge of Microsoft Office including Word and Excel.
Must be available to work daytime, evenings and weekends.

Camp Counsellor (student)

Plan and deliver programming activities and games for a group of 8-12 children aged 4 to 12. They participate in day-to-day operations of the program including following a daily schedule and participate in programming, including swimming, outdoor activities, and offsite trips.

Qualifications:

Must have experience organizing activities for children aged 4 to 12
Standard First Aid with CPR Level “C”
16 years of age

Supie Counsellor (student)

Work with a partner outdoors to plan and deliver programming activities and games in a local City of Hamilton Park.

Qualifications:

Must have experience organizing activities for children aged 4 to 12
Standard First Aid with CPR Level “C”
14 years of age

Program Assistant (Supie)

Provide leadership in recreational and outdoor programs. They also provide guidance to Supie Counsellors and volunteers.

Qualifications:

Playlot background with previous experience as a Camp or Supie Counsellor
Principles of Healthy Childhood Development (PHCD) required, or able to obtain before summer programs start
Standard First Aid with CPR Level “C”
“G” Driver’s Licence

Wading Pool Attendant (Student)

Monitor wading pools located throughout Hamilton. Some of their responsibilities include pool maintenance, enforcing wading pool rules, performing rescues and first-aid.

Qualifications:

Must have a current Lifesaving Society Bronze Medallion Certification (or higher)
Standard First Aid with CPR Level “C”
14 years of age

Inclusion Facilitator –Program Support

Plans and organizes recreational and outdoor programs for children and youth with identified special needs and/or oversees the accommodations and integration of participants into recreation programs.

Qualifications:

Experience working with children or youth requiring accommodations or special needs care (cognitive, developmental, physical, and behavioural conditions)
Standard First Aid with CPR Level “C”
16 years of age

Youth Facilitator

Plans and organizes recreational and outdoor programs for youth participants (aged 12-17) and/or oversees the accommodations and integration of youth participants into recreation programs.

Qualifications:

Previous experience working with youth aged 12-17
Knowledge of youth mental health or community supports
Standard First Aid with CPR Level “C”
16 years of age

Recreation Jobs

Application Process

Your resume must have this information:

Your current contact information including your name, address, email address and telephone number.
The name of the school you attend and the name of any schools that you have attended in the past.
Your current student status, either full-time or part-time.
The name and number of years of the program you are in (for ex., Bachelor of Applied Health Sciences in Athletic Therapy four-year program).
The year you are in of your current program (for example, year three of a four-year program).

The class of your valid Ontario driver’s licence or equivalent.
A description of paid work experiences and/or volunteer experiences.
A description of your computer skills.
A description of your hands-on experience with different types of tools and equipment, including hand held, power tools and gas-operated tools.
A list of any up-to-date certificates you have. For example, standard first aid and/or CPR-C.
A list of any associations to which you belong.

To apply for a job, you need to complete the online questionnaire and submit your resume for each job that you want to apply for. You can apply for a job via the current opportunities section of the website or by clicking “Apply Online” above:

Resume:

You must include your updated resume. Failure to do so will disqualify your application.
- Make sure your resume is up-to-date with all important information outlining your skills and qualifications in detail before you start the application process.
- Resumes are required to match responses to the questionnaire (i.e. if you answer “yes” to having paid experience working with children recreation, then this should be listed on your resume).

Any false statements made on your resume will disqualify you or cause your dismissal.
Once the posting has closed, you will not be able to make changes to your resume or online application. Hard copies will not be accepted. You can submit updated resumes while the posting is open.

Questionnaire:

All questions on the job questionnaire must be answered. If you do not complete questionnaire(s) in full and submit your resume, you will not be considered for employment.
Any false statements made on the questionnaire will disqualify you or cause your dismissal.
We will send you an email confirming that we received your application. You must provide a valid email address and complete the personal profile.

You will only be contacted if you are selected for an interview. We do not give status updates on individual applications.

If you are selected for an interview you will be contacted via email. Ensure you check your junk and spam folders for emails. The email will contain the following information:

The proposed date and time of your interview.
The contact name and telephone number you will need to contact to confirm the proposed date and time of your interview.
The deadline for you to respond.

If you do not contact us by the deadline in the email we send you, we will assume that you are not interested in the position and you will not be given further consideration.

If you are not living in Hamilton due to attending school, you may request a telephone interview. Please contact the person in the email to make alternate arrangements. It is your responsibility to confirm the date and time of your interview.

References

You will need to provide two references. A reference is a person who can speak to your work ethic and past experience. It is someone you have directly reported to. If you do not have two work-related references, you can use a teacher or leader in a volunteer group that you have been involved with.
The decision to conduct reference checks will be at the discretion of the hiring department.

Working with family members

There is an Anti-Nepotism Policy in effect that requires you to disclose any of your relatives that work for the City. Elected officials, appointed officers and City employees are not allowed to influence the hiring process. If you have a relative that currently works for the City, you will be asked to disclose the following information at your interview:

Name of your relative who works for the City
Your relation to them
The department in which they work.
The location where they work

Recreation Jobs

Additional Requirements

All recreation positions require a Vulnerable Sector Check or a Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check if you are under the age of 18. These must be completed at your own expense and be submitted before beginning work.
To obtain your police check, go to the police service in the municipality where you permanently live. Check with your local Police Services to find out identification requirements, cost and payment method.
When you are offered a job, you must provide an original Vulnerable Sector Check or a Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check with a "Date of Search" of less than 60 days from the hire date. If the "Date of Search" was more than 60 days prior to the hire date, it will not be accepted.
In order for your application to be considered, you must not have a criminal conviction for which a pardon has not been granted at the time of application and your police check must be satisfactory to the City.

Recreation positions require specific licenses and/or certifications (please refer to each position). At time of assessment (which could be as early as days after the posting closes), you will be asked to provide proof that you possess the required licenses and/or certificates. Ensure all licenses and certifications are clearly identified on your resume.

Standard First Aid with CPR Level C Certification

All recreation positions require current certification in Standard First Aid with CPR Level "C". You must clearly identify that you have this certification on your resume.
This certificate must be issued by a training agency recognized by the Workplace Safety Insurance Board (WSIB).
At time of assessment (which could be as early as days after the posting closes), you will be asked to provide proof that you possess the required certificate(s).

Driver’s License Requirements

Some positions require you to drive City-owned or leased vehicles:

Indicate the class of your driver's licence on your resume.
You must not have any demerit points on your full Ontario class G driver’s licence.
Students holding an Ontario class G1 or G2 driver’s licence will not be allowed to drive City-owned or leased vehicles.
You will be required to fill in a form to request a licence check from the Ministry of Transportation when you are hired.

The minimum age to volunteer is 13 years. The minimum age requirement is set under the Ministry of Labour, Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) according to the Regulation for Industrial Establishments (R.R.O 1990, Reg. 851).

Camp Counsellors must be at least sixteen (16) years of age within the calendar year as according to the Ontario Camps Association (OCA) Accreditation Guidelines (published January 2017).

Supie Counsellors and Wading Pool Attendants must be at least fourteen (14) years of age at time of application as according to the Regulation for Industrial Establishments (R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 851) made under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA).

Date modified

July 17, 2025