Job Description

Program Support Educators

Location YMCA Child Care Centres throughout the Niagara Region


Pay

$20.05 - $21.28 per hour

YMCA Membership upon hire.





Employment Type

Part time - 12.50 - 25 hours per week


(Regionally funded contract position)





Placement Date September, 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 positive growth trajectory though continuously adapting and innovating our services and programs to meet the changing landscape in Niagara.

NATURE & SCOPE

Program Support Educators work in YMCA-licensed childcare centres, with school-age children before and after school who may have special needs, physical or behavioural challenges, or medical considerations. Program Support Educators will provide the necessary support to children helping them to be successfully integrated into the YMCA childcare program. The Program Support Educator supports early child Educators by assisting in small group activities and following individual personal profile plans to facilitate the successful inclusion of children and encourage independence.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Ensure YMCA Childcare is an inclusive childcare experience and implement strategies to achieve this goal. Plan and deliver programs for YMCA Childcare participants following YMCA objectives. Support Children with behavioural, physical, or developmental challenges. Assist with program implementation and adaptation of activities to meet the needs of all of children. Read, understand and apply information from children's support plans. Make quick decisions to ensure maximum participant integration and safety. Understand and commit to confidentiality. Greet parents/guardians each morning when they drop off children and in the evening at pick up. Support and work as part of a staff/volunteer team by remaining flexible (willing to learn new skills, adapt approaches). Responsible for the safety and security of staff and children. Respond to first aid and emergency situations as required, always check for potential health and safety hazards when on duty, and complete incident reports when necessary. Embrace diversity and inclusion of all individuals. Follow Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (CPI) guidelines (when certified). Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Experience working with children and/or youth with special needs/behavioural challenges. Applicants must be 18 years of age or older. Values driven individuals who make excellent role models for children and youth. Energy, enthusiasm and flexibility. Current Standard First Aid with CPR-C. The ability to participate in physical activity. Participate in training and adhere to the YMCA Child Protection Policy and Procedures. Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (CPI) Training is an asset. Upon hiring, applicants 18 years of age and older must submit a clear and satisfactory Police Vulnerable Sector Check (PVSC) issued for the YMCA of Niagara.

COMPETENCIES

Child and Youth Focused

Commits to assisting growth and development among children and youth.

Commitment to Organization Vision and Values

Demonstrates and promotes a personal understand of and appreciation for the mission, vision, strategic outcomes and values of the YMCA.

Concern for Health and Safety

Acknowledges and understands how to manage and educate others of risk and harm reduction.

Creativity and Innovation

Develops new ways or adapts existing ideas to help us achieve desired results.

Team Work

Actively builds teams and encourages open relationships for maximum organizational effectiveness.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Interested applicants are invited to submit an application by noon on September 15, 2025.



Internal applicants are encouraged to 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

PreferredStandard First Aid * CRC VSS