QUALIFICATIONS

• Registered Early Childhood Educator & proof of membership in good standing with the College of ECEs.
• Previous Child Care experience preferred
• Current immunizations as required by Niagara Regional Public Health and the Ministry of Education.
• Current Standard First Aid & CPR-C
• Food Handlers certification preferred.
• Upon hiring, applicants must be 18 years of age and older and 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.

Relationship Building and Collaboration
Builds positive interactions both internally and externally to achieve work related goals.

Coaching and Development
Commits to assisting participants, volunteers, staff and self in continuous learning and development.

Quality Focus
Ensures that YMCA programs and services are superior.

Regular Part Time: Up to 35 hours per week (during the school year, with summer employment opportunities available). Occasional early mornings, evening & weekend hours.

Registered Early Childhood Educator - Before & After School

Location: William Hamilton Merritt Childcare Centre, St. Catharines

Pay: $26.26 - $27.50 per hour, inclusive of all government funding
YMCA Membership and free ECCDC membership

Employment Type: Regular Part Time: Up to 35 hours per week (during the school year, with summer employment opportunities available)
Occasional early mornings, evening & weekend hours.

Vacancies: 2

Placement Date: March 2026


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 role of the RECE is to help carry out the day-to-day operations of the Child Care Centre. Helping to implement programs for children in care within the requirements of the current curriculum. The Child Care Centre comprises of infant, toddler, preschool and before & after school age care.  


RESPONSIBILITIES

• Organize and implement activities for the children as outlined in the weekly program plans, including components required by the curriculum
• Be responsible for the care and safety of the children
• Engage with the children in a positive and supportive manner, taking into consideration each child’s sensitivities and differences
• Maintain a positive and professional relationship with all parents, children and fellow team members; provide feedback to parents regarding their children
• Be responsible for the physical condition of the childcare facility- playroom, playground, washrooms, lockers and equipment; carry out light cleaning
• Prepare and distribute snacks in accordance with Public Health’s food safety preparation practices and principles
• Represent the YMCA in a positive and professional manner
• Report any serious occurrences or parental confrontations to the Supervisor
• Participate in staff meetings, training sessions and other meetings as required
• Work within the Ministry of Education licensing standards and guidelines; follow all YMCA policies and procedures including the Child Youth and - Vulnerable Persons Protection Policy and Procedures
• Assist with running the Strong Kids campaign within the Center
• Promote the safety and security of children and staff through safe work practices, checking for health and safety hazards at all times when on duty and following YMCA policies and procedures
• Follow the protocols for maintaining a clean and safe workplace, including proper procedures for cleaning and disinfecting
• Rotational Health Screening responsibilities
• Work in compliance with the YMCA of Niagara’s Policies, Procedures and Protocols referenced and reviewed on the Staff Intranet
• Other duties as required

APPLICATION PROCESS

Interested applicants are invited to submit an application by noon on March 27, 2026 at the following link: https://ymcaofniagara.org/careers/job-postings/

Internal applicants are encouraged to apply on our internal job board by logging into their UKG portal and navigating to Myself > My Company > View Opportunities. Internal applicants are also 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