Job Description

The YMCA is a charity that has been helping Canadians improve their lives since the first Y opened in 1851. Y programs are offered at more than 1,700 locations across Canada and help more than 2.25 million people annually become healthier in spirit, mind, and body. The YMCA of the National Capital Region proudly serves people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities, and works to address critical social needs in our community. We are a leader and valued partner in creating a vibrant and healthy community where everyone belongs and can reach their full potential.



This position requires a commitment to the Y mission and core values of excellence, compassion, dignity, accountability and inclusion, which form the foundation of all Y programs and services.

Working for the Y

Are you looking to use your skills and unique gifts to make a real difference in your community? The YMCA of the National Capital Region is a great workplace committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, where different backgrounds, experiences, and identities are appreciated and celebrated. The YMCA provides hundreds of employees with meaningful jobs and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of individuals and the health of our communities. We recognize the contributions of our staff through innovative practices, great benefits, and growth opportunities. Whether you are starting out in your career or a seasoned professional, you will find many exciting opportunities to achieve your personal and career goals.

Vacancy Status:

This job posting is for an existing vacancy.

What do we offer?

At the Y, you will be part of a vibrant and diverse network of people whose shared vision is to be a leader, partner and catalyst that empowers individuals, dismantles barriers and transforms communities.

Our competitive wage and benefit package include:

Free YMCA gym membership; Discounted Y program fees (including health & fitness programs, child care, and camps); Access to our YMCA Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) including free, immediate, confidential assistance and counselling for you and your family members for mental and physical health, and financial advice, among other 12 suites of services; Health and Dental Insurance; Long-term Disability and Life Insurance; Access to our Canadian YMCA Retirement Fund pension plan; Up to 25 vacation days per year including two float days, and one birthday vacation; Maternity leave benefits for up to 18 months.

Some benefits may vary based on employment terms*

What do you offer?

The Employment Navigator will provide clients with accurate information and appropriate referrals on matters related to employment, trades, immigration, settlement, and community resources on a drop-in basis. Perform duties of needs assessment and orientation; determining the needs of Newcomers and referring them to internal and/or external programs to best assist them. Perform reception duties; answering phones and emails, triaging and directing clients to appropriate services/people. Perform administrative and data entry duties. The Employment Navigator is a dedicated, frontline Francophone resource within the Navigating to Employment initiative. This role is designed to actively connect Francophone job seekers in minority settings to relevant employment, training, and community supports. The Navigator ensures all services reflect the linguistic and cultural realities of Ontario's Francophone communities, acting as a connector and facilitator rather than a case manager.

Some of the tasks of this position include:

Regularly providing individualized support to clients facing significant barriers to employment or integration. Designing and delivering interactive workshops tailored to diverse client needs, requiring real-time analysis of group dynamics, adaptation of materials, and effective communication strategies. Providing direct support to clients experiencing complex barriers (e.g., housing, employment, or mental health). Delivering personalized, culturally relevant navigation services, including needs assessments, service orientation, and individualized employment guidance. Building and maintaining relationships with employers, community organizations, and service partners. Supporting clients with job search, career planning, access to training, and labour market integration. Participating in professional development, provincial training, and peer learning sessions organized by BOREAL SSM.

What qualifications and abilities are we looking for?

At the YMCA of the National Capital Region, we strive to ensure our employees are a fit based on their strengths, interests, and future goals.

The successful candidate will have the following:

Education

Post-secondary education or equivalent in a related field

Language

Fluent in French, oral and written Other languages are an asset

Experience, Skills and Abilities

Minimum 2 years of experience in employment services, community outreach, or client navigation. Strong understanding of Francophone communities in Ontario, particularly in minority settings. Strong computer skills including MS Office suite, online research, data entry, social media Excellent organizational skills and detail-oriented Strong customer service skills Superior problem-solving skills and demonstrated good judgment Proven sensitivity in working with the needs of immigrants from diverse cultural backgrounds Ability to assess the information needs of clients served

Additional Requirements:

Applicants must already have a valid permit to work in Canada. A Police Record check, not more than 6 months old is required. Police Records checks are reviewed on an individual basis and the offense(s) - if any - is considered in the decision-making process in relation to the requirement of working with children, therefore not eliminating all candidates with a record from being offered a position. Annually, staff must complete the mandatory training for the protection of Children & Youth and submit the certificate of completion.

Core Competencies:

Excellence

: Identifies and implements improvements that enhance work quality.

Compassion:

Involves warmth and supportive communication. Fosters understanding and collaboration, leading to a positive work environment.

Dignity:

Involves respecting every individual's worth, promoting fairness and valuing perspectives. It encourages a culture of integrity, mutual respect, and empowerment.

Accountability:

Manages tasks, projects, and processes effectively.

Inclusion

: Demonstrates self-awareness and commitment to IDEA, ethics, and well-being.

About diversity and inclusiveness at the Y:

Inclusiveness is a part of our core values and we are committed to ensuring the diversity of the people and communities we serve and as well as our staff. We welcome candidates from racialized groups, invisible minorities, Indigenous People, women, persons with disabilities, persons who identify as 2SLGBTQ+.



YMCA of the National Capital Region is committed to accessibility in employment and to ensuring equal access to employment opportunities for candidates, including persons with disabilities. In compliance with AODA, the YMCA will endeavour to provide accommodation to people with disabilities in the recruitment process upon request. If you are selected for an interview and require accommodation due to a disability during the recruitment process, please email peopleandculture@ymcaottawa.ca upon scheduling your interview.

Statement on Use of Artificial Intelligence in Employment Decisions:

At the YMCA, we are committed to maintaining a fair and equitable hiring process. We do not use artificial intelligence (AI) to screen, assess, or select applicants for any positions of employment. All employment decisions are made by our dedicated People and Culture team, ensuring that each candidate is evaluated on an individual basis with the utmost consideration for their unique qualifications and experiences.

How to apply?

All internal applicants must inform their supervisor of their intention to apply for the position.

Thank you for your interest in joining the YMCA of the National Capital Region. We appreciate all applications. Due to the volume of applicants, we are only able to contact those selected for further consideration in the hiring process.



The YMCA of the National Capital Region is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer.