YMCA of Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford·Hamilton, Ontario
Assist in the development and implementation of a licensed child care program for children aged 4 to 12. Ensure the health, safety, and supervision of children while fostering positive relationships with parents and school personnel.
$22.75 per hour, inclusive of all government wage subsidy grants
Salary Grade: Grade 2
Location: Various sites across Hamilton
Department: Child Care
Employment Type: Regular Part-time Hourly
Work Hours: Up to 29 hours per week
Anticipated Start Date: August 2026
No. of Vacancies: Multiple
Deadline to Apply: September 30, 2026
Early Learning Assistants are responsible for assisting in the development and implementation of a licensed child care program that meets the developmental needs of children 4 - 12 years of age, while adhering to the YMCA HBB policies and procedures, quality standards, as well as the regulations of the Child Care and Early Years Act (CCEYA).
Early Learning Assistants are responsible for the supervision of children at all times during program to ensure the health and safety needs of all are met. Since programs may take place in a shared space, incumbents must have excellent interpersonal skills in order to maintain and foster strong and positive relationships with school personnel, parents and other educators to promote the delivery of high quality child care services within the community.
Assist in the planning, organizing, and leading of activities for children 4 to 12 years of age to meet the developmental needs of children. Program numbers range from 10 to 90 children in attendance.
Understand and comply with all regulatory items as per the Child Care and Early Years Act (CCEYA), YMCA and the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Labour, and others.
Ensure the health and safety of the children is maintained at all times; Must have knowledge of potential hazards and the ability to put a preventative plan in place.
Assist with children’s bathroom routines, changing soiled clothing or diapers, and participating in snack/mealtimes.
Utilize appropriate behaviour guidance techniques in all interactions with the children.
Assume leadership of the program in the absence of the Facilitator/RECE.
Communicate positively with parents, school personnel and community contacts.
Participate in Association wide events and attend monthly meetings and professional learning sessions.
This position requires the ability and flexibility to work a split shift (before and after school hours).
Program areas are based on shared space within the school, therefore, requiring movement and set up of equipment on a daily, weekly, and/or monthly basis.
Ability to use frequent light to medium physical effort including lifting up to 20 kg (44 lbs.), bending, stooping, carrying, pushing, and pulling.
Must be able to work outdoors for at least 2 hours daily year-round; may be exposed to heat, humidity or cold.
Completion of High School education or equivalent.
A minimum of 12 months’ experience working with children, obtained through paid work experience, volunteering, placements, or a combination of the above.
Must be familiar with the developmental needs of children ranging from ages 0 to 12 years.
Strong interpersonal and relationship building skills; ability to establish rapport with children, families, staff/volunteers, and community partners.
Strong proficiency in spoken and written English is required to communicate effectively with children, families, and colleagues, and to maintain accurate documentation and records.
Working Computer knowledge.
18 years of age or older.
Current Intermediate/Standard First Aid and CPR-C & AED certification (Level C).
Current and satisfactory Police Records Check with Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC)
May be required to travel.
Inclusion, Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility, as well as a commitment to building developmental assets in children and adults.
All offers of employment will be subject to the provision that the successful incumbent provides the YMCA of Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford with a current and satisfactory Police Records Check. Positions responsible for the direct supervision of children and/or vulnerable persons will be required, in addition to a Police Records Check, to provide a Vulnerable Sector Screening Report at the time of hire. Police Records Checks are reviewed on an individual basis, and the offence(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.
As one of the largest charitable community service organizations in Canada, the YMCA of Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford responds to critical social needs in the community and works to provide solutions. By nurturing the potential of children, youth and adults, the YMCA HBB connects people to life-building opportunities, to each other and enhances their quality of life. We foster social responsibility and healthy living. The YMCA HBB works collectively with community partners that share the YMCA HBB's determination in strengthening the foundations of community for all people.
Inclusion, Diversity, Equality and Accessibility
The YMCA of Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford is committed to creating an inclusive, diverse, equitable and accessible environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or neurodiversity.
We understand the social barriers preventing individuals from applying for open roles. We encourage those from the Indigenous, 2SLGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and Disabled communities to apply.
If you need any accommodation throughout the recruitment process, please do not hesitate to contact our People, Leadership and Culture Department (PLC) at plc@ymcahbb.ca [plc@ymcahbb.ca]
Ready to Make a Difference?
The YMCA is a charity that ignites the potential in people. #YSavesLives starts with building a strong community. If you’re passionate about people and excited to lead impactful initiatives, we want to hear from you!
Requires a high school diploma and at least 12 months of experience working with children. Must possess current First Aid/CPR-C certifications and a satisfactory Police Records Check with Vulnerable Sector Check.
Market context
Ontario early learning assistant roles are often driven by ongoing demand for child care support and classroom continuity. These positions are competitive because employers typically look for a high school diploma, at least 12 months of experience with children, current First Aid/CPR-C, and a satisfactory Police Records Check with Vulnerable Sector Check. Before applying, confirm your certifications are current and note that the requirements and benefits on this platform are AI-summarized from the original job description, saving you research time.
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