YMCA of the National Capital Region·Ottawa, Ontario
The Youth Worker provides accompaniment and support to high school students (12-17) who have been suspended, facilitating daily workshops and supervising schoolwork. They are also responsible for managing case files, communicating with guardians, and drafting annual program reports.
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.
This job posting is for two vacancies. This is a contract from September 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027.
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.
*Some benefits may vary based on employment terms
What do you offer?
Back on Track is a school perseverance program that offers support to high school students, who, for various reasons, have been suspended from school or may require additional support. In an effort to support students who are having difficulties in school, it offers a positive and restorative experience that fosters personal growth, autonomy, and the development of social skills in lieu of disciplinary measures. Back on Track boasts a network of rich partnerships with local schools, school boards and other community partners. Under the supervision of the Manager of Youth Intervention programs and in collaboration with the Ottawa Catholic School Board, the Youth Worker’s principal responsibility is ensuring the effective operation of the program, namely the accompaniment and support of students (12-17 years old) during their referral period.
30am to 12:30pm, Monday to Friday.
Intervening with secondary school students on an individual basis and in a group setting.
Facilitating daily group workshops on social or behavioural issues.
Supervising and supporting students with assigned schoolwork.
Communicating regularly with participants’ parents/guardians throughout the program and its follow-up processes.
Managing case files and data entry into the program’s database.
Drafting annual reports and providing statistics on program results.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Market context
In Ontario, youth worker positions tied to intervention and support programs are often driven by community and school-based needs. These roles can be competitive because employers typically look for a relevant university degree, 2-3 years of youth intervention experience, and clear screening documents such as a valid Canadian work permit and a recent police record check. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your documents and tailor your application to direct youth support experience.
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