Job Description

Marketing and Communications Associate

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Location

YMCA of Niagara Administration Office, St. Catharines

Pay

Annual Salary: $40,560

YMCA Membership Benefits upon hire

LTD, Group Life, AD&D, Health and Dental after 3 month probation



Eligible to enroll in the YMCA of Niagara pension plan after 1 year of service

Employment Type

Full time - 40 hours per week - Monday - Friday

Occasional early mornings, evening & weekend hours.

Placement Date

November 3, 2025

WHY WORK FOR THE YMCA?

The YMCA of Niagara is a mission-driven organization committed to fueling a healthy, connected, and engaged Niagara. Our presence in over 100 program sites has been impacting the community with dedication and purpose for over 150 years.



Our legacy in the community is a testament to the transformative work we do. We serve a diverse range of individuals and families, with a commitment to inclusivity, collaboration, and the wellbeing of all. As we move forward, we are embracing a revitalized approach to meet the evolving needs of the community and actively contribute to transforming lives across Niagara.



Guided by our shared values - caring, health, honesty, inclusiveness, respect, advocacy, and responsibility - the YMCA provides our employees with meaningful opportunities to make a positive impact on individuals and the health of our communities.



Our dynamic team is dedicated to maintaining our growth trajectory though continuously adapting and innovating our services and programs to meet the changing landscape in Niagara.

NATURE & SCOPE

The Marketing and Communications Associate is responsible for supporting the development and delivery of print and digital marketing materials across a range of YMCA impact centres, contributing to communications that promote YMCA programs, services, events, and philanthropic priorities across Niagara.



Reporting to the General Manager of Marketing and Communications, the incumbent plays an integral role in producing and scheduling social media content, updating website and email communications, coordinating print and promotional materials, and contributing to the YMCA's visual and written storytelling efforts.



This position is part of a collaborative and energetic marketing team that balances multiple projects at once, responds to evolving priorities, and leverages digital tools and platforms to connect with diverse audiences. The Associate is expected to bring strong communication skills, digital fluency, and a creative eye to their day-to-day work, while contributing to a supportive and solutions-focused team environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Prepare and schedule recurring promotional materials across program areas Design print and digital materials, including posters, flyers, and handouts, using Canva and/or Adobe tools -- ranging from structured brand layouts to original, from-scratch designs Apply creativity within the boundaries of established YMCA brand guidelines to ensure consistency in voice, tone, and visual identity Upload and maintain content on YMCA platforms such as the website, email tools, and digital signage Apply basic SEO best practices (e.g., keywords, image tags, meta descriptions) when posting web content Make minor updates to website content using HTML within WordPress or other YMCA platforms Capture photos and short video clips for use on social media and digital platforms, ensuring content reflects YMCA brand and values Perform light photo editing (e.g., cropping, resizing), and maintain organized digital asset libraries Support the collection and tracking of photo permissions and media releases as needed Support the setup and scheduling of paid digital promotions using tools such as Meta Ads Manager and Google Ads Assist in monitoring ad performance and compiling metrics for internal reporting Assist the General Manager with scheduling, task tracking, and organization of team files Contribute to marketing planning, content scheduling, and coordination of department request, while maintaining print inventories and digital files Work closely with the Marketing and Communications Coordinator on cross-functional tasks Participate in creative brainstorming and content development sessions Take ownership of assigned tasks while being open to feedback and coaching Other duties as required

QUALIFICATIONS

Post-secondary education in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, or a related field; or equivalent experience 1-2 years of professional experience in a marketing, communications, or content support role is required Strong written communication skills, with the ability to adapt tone, voice, and format across platforms Proficiency with Canva is required; familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite is considered an asset Working knowledge of preparing files for print production is considered a strong asset Understanding of basic SEO principles and best practices for web content Comfortable working with simple HTML to make minor updates to digital content Familiarity with social media platforms and scheduling tools (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, etc.) Able to capture photos and short videos on-site using mobile devices or basic cameras; a good eye for composition and brand alignment Light editing skills (e.g., cropping, resizing, light retouching) and adherence to media storage and release protocols Experience with Meta Ads Manager and Google Ads Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools, including Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and SharePoint Experience with Monday.com or similar project/task management tools is an asset Strong organizational skills and attention to detail Collaborative attitude and willingness to learn Upon hiring, a clear and satisfactory criminal record check inclusive of the vulnerable sector search (PVSC) issued for the YMCA of Niagara

COMPETENCIES

Written Communication:

Communicates clearly and effectively with internal and external audiences

Collaboration:

Works well with teammates and contributes to shared goals

Attention to Detail:

Delivers consistent, brand-aligned, and accurate work

Curiosity & Growth Mindset:

Brings a desire to learn, adapt, and apply feedback in a dynamic environment

Digital Fluency & Judgment:

Uses emerging tools, including AI, to enhance work -- while relying on sound reasoning and strategic alignment

Service Orientation:

Responds to requests with care, efficiency, and professionalism

Commitment to Organization Vision and Values:

Demonstrates and promotes a personal understanding of and appreciation for the Mission, Vision, Strategic outcomes and values of the YMCA

Diversity:

Appreciates that people with different opinions, backgrounds and characteristics bring a richness to the YMCA

APPLICATION PROCESS

Interested applicants are invited to submit an application by noon on September 30, 2025.



Internal applicants are encouraged to apply on our internal job board and notify their supervisor before applying.



All applicants are thanked for their interest. Only those applicants being considered for an interview will be contacted by email.



Accessibility accommodations and materials in alternate formats for individuals with disabilities can be arranged upon request.



For more information on other opportunities at the YMCA of Niagara, please visit: ymcaofniagara.org

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Licenses & Certifications

Required* CRC VSS